Washing outdoor cushions in the washing machine can seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, you can easily keep your outdoor cushions looking fresh and clean all season long. Here are some top tips for successfully washing outdoor cushions in the washing machine.
Check the Cushion Labels
The first step is to check the labels on your outdoor cushions. Look for details about the fabric content and any special washing instructions. Most outdoor cushions today are made from solution-dyed acrylic or polyester fabric. These synthetics are durable and designed for outdoor use. The labels should indicate if the cushions are machine washable. If not, you’ll need to spot clean them instead.
Wash Cushion Covers Only
It’s best to remove the cushion covers and only wash the covers in the machine, not the entire cushion. This helps preserve the shape and avoids damage to the cushion fill inside. Zip off any cushion covers and set aside the inner cushions before washing.
Pretreat Stains
Inspect the outdoor cushion covers for any stubborn stains or dirt buildup. Pretreating will help lift stains before washing. Apply a stain remover spray or gel directly to stained areas. Let it soak in for 5-10 minutes before washing. For serious stains, use a soft brush to work in the pretreat product.
Wash on Gentle Cycle
Wash your outdoor cushion covers on the gentle or delicate cycle setting using cold water. The gentle agitation will get cushions clean without damage. Avoid very hot water temperatures that could negatively affect the fabric.
Use Mild Detergent
Stick to a mild detergent, never harsh bleaches or fabric softeners. Powder detergents often work best for cleaning outdoor cushions. Check the detergent instructions for the recommended amount based on your machine’s load size.
Add Tennis Balls to Drum
Adding a few tennis balls to the washing machine drum can help thoroughly clean cushion covers. As they tumble around, the balls will help force water through the fabric. They also prevent bulky cushions from balling up.
Rinse and Spin Thoroughly
Make sure to run a full rinse cycle after washing outdoor cushions. This removes all soap residue that can attract dirt after drying. Also choose a high spin cycle. The excess spinning flings away moisture for quicker drying time.
Tumble Dry on Low
It’s best to tumble dry your outdoor cushion covers on a low heat setting. High heat risks shrinking or damaging the fabric. If air drying, lay flat in the shade. Direct sunlight may fade colors over time.
Add Dryer Balls
Toss in a few wool or rubber dryer balls when machine drying. As they bounce around, dryer balls help separate cushion covers and keep the fabric from balling up. Faster dry times also minimize mold risks.
Return Cushion Covers
Once fully dry, put the freshly washed cushion covers back on the inner cushions. Use a soft brush to fluff up the fill if needed. Enjoy your revitalized cushions outdoors all season long.
Properly washing your outdoor cushions in the washing machine helps extend their life so you can enjoy them for many years. Follow these tips and techniques for clean, crisp cushion covers ready for lounging outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Outdoor Cushions in the Washing Machine
How often should outdoor cushions be washed?
Outdoor cushions should ideally be washed at least 2-3 times per season. Wash at the start and end of the season, and once mid-season if cushions are heavily used or get especially dirty. More frequent washing may be needed for light colored fabrics prone to showing dirt.
What temperature water should be used?
Always wash outdoor cushions with cold water, around 30°C or lower. Hot water can damage the fabrics. Warm or cold water allows a thorough cleaning but is gentler on the fabrics.
Can I put outdoor cushions in the dryer?
Yes, you can machine dry outdoor cushion covers after washing them. Use a low heat setting. Remove covers immediately after drying to avoid over-drying. Lay flat to air dry or tumble dry on low if in a hurry.
How do I get rid of mold and mildew on outdoor cushions?
To remove mold and mildew, first brush off any surface growth outdoors. Then pretreat those areas with a mildew remover spray or oxygen bleach solution. Let it soak before washing with detergent in the machine. Always fully dry cushions to prevent more mold.
What if my cushions aren’t washable?
If the label says your outdoor cushions are not machine washable, spot clean only. Use a damp cloth with mild soap and gently blot stained areas. Never soak the whole cushion if not meant for washing. Air dry away from direct sunlight.
Can I put the entire cushion in the wash?
It’s best to only wash the removable covers, not the whole cushion. The inner cushion fill and structure are not meant for machine washing. Only wash the outer fabric zip-off covers to protect the insides.
How do I keep outdoor cushions clean between washes?
Use a vacuum with an upholstery brush regularly to remove dirt from outdoor cushions. Spot clean any stains immediately with a damp cloth. Allow cushions to fully air dry before putting back outside. Store indoors when not in use to keep cleaner.
What if my cushion cover zipper breaks?
If an outdoor cushion cover zipper breaks, try using pliers to realign the edges of the zipper teeth temporarily. Or replace the broken slider part only. If the entire zipper is damaged, you’ll need to replace that cushion cover completely.
Can I put foam outdoor cushions in the washer?
No, foam cushion inserts should never go in the washing machine. Only the fabric covers are washable. The cushion foam will fall apart and be ruined in water. Keep foam inserts dry by only washing the zip-off cushion covers instead.
Washing outdoor cushions in the washing machine is simple with some basic tips in mind. By following proper care instructions, your patio cushions will stay fresh and vibrant all season long.
In Conclusion
Washing outdoor cushions in the washing machine is an easy process to refresh dirty patio cushions. Be sure to follow fabric care labels, pretreat stains, use gentle cycles, and thoroughly dry cushions after washing. With proper cleaning techniques, you can keep outdoor cushions looking their best all year long. Utilize this guide to get step-by-step instructions for successfully machine washing outdoor cushions. Taking the time to properly clean outdoor cushions will extend their life and appearance significantly.