How To Clean Algae From Patio Furniture Cushions

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions and Pillows to Keep Them Fresh All Flavor

Rinse away clay and stains with these easy tips for cleaning outdoor article of furniture cushions.

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Cushions and pillows bring softness and manner to outdoor furniture, simply these costly accents endure a lot of wear and tear when exposed to the elements. The fabric can gather dirt, debris, mildew, tree sap, bird debris, and other stains from outdoor utilize, so it'southward important to know how to clean outdoor cushions and pillows to keep your seating surface area fresh and comfortable.

Programme to launder your patio furniture and cushions before storing them abroad for the flavor, or more oftentimes every bit stains happen. Depending on where they're stored, y'all might too desire to clean outdoor cushions and pillows before using them for the first time each yr. Follow the steps below for the all-time way to make clean outdoor cushions, including how to remove mutual stains like mildew from outdoor fabrics.

outdoor furniture sitting area of deck tree privacy

Credit: Keller and Keller Photography Inc

How to Clean Patio Cushions and Pillows

Some patio cushions and outdoor pillows feature removable covers that you can only toss in the washing machine. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and let air-dry completely before putting the covers back on.

If you can't remove the encompass from your patio piece of furniture cushions, refresh them using a elementary cleaning solution and your garden hose. Exist sure to do this on a solid outdoor surface, such as a patio or deck, to avoid creating new mud or grass stains on the cushions.

outdoor patio cleaning supplies

Credit: Photo: Jacob Pull a fast one on; Stylist: Joseph Wanek

What You lot Need

Vacuum with upholstery attachment
Soft-bristled brush
Dish detergent
Borax
Saucepan of h2o
Garden hose
Clean towel

Step i: Vacuum up loose debris.

Using the upholstery attachment, vacuum over the surface of the cushion to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Pay special attention to seams and crevices that could hide clay, and be careful effectually buttons or other decorative elements. You tin besides use a soft-bristled brush ($6, Amazon) to gently brush abroad grime.

scrubbing outdoor pillow with brush

Credit: Photo: Jacob Fox; Stylist: Joseph Wanek

Step 2: Scrub with cleaning solution.

Mix ane Tbsp. dish detergent with ¼ loving cup Borax ($5, Target) in a bucket of water. Use a brush dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub the entire surface, going back over stained areas every bit needed. Wait at to the lowest degree five minutes to permit the solution to soak.

Step three: Rinse cushions using garden hose.

Use a garden hose on medium-high pressure to rinse off the cushions. Be sure to thoroughly rinse away all of the cleaning solution. Don't use a pressure washer every bit this might damage the fabric.

Pace 4: Let dry completely.

Squeeze out whatever excess water with your hands, then blot the fabric with a make clean towel to soak upwards as much moisture equally possible. Prop the cushions up vertically and allow them to air-dry out completely. Fix them in a sunny spot to speed up the drying time.

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions with Vinegar

For a natural cleaning method, effort using vinegar to make clean outdoor cushions. Add ¼ loving cup distilled white vinegar to 4 cups warm water and pour into a spray bottle. After vacuuming the surface, spray the cushions with the solution and let sit for 15 minutes. Use a soft castor to scrub whatsoever stained areas. Rinse with water and let air dry.

How to Remove Stains on Outdoor Cushions and Pillows

Every bit with nigh stains, it's best to treat stains on outdoor cushions every bit soon every bit possible. Use these instructions for specific types of spots:

Grass stains: If the to a higher place Borax solution doesn't work on grass stains, use a liquid detergent that has stain-removing enzymes, such as Tide Heavy Duty Hygienic Clean Liquid Laundry Detergent ($12, Target). Use a soft castor to work the detergent into the stain and rinse with clean water.
Mold or mildew: Use a castor to scrape abroad as much of the mold or mildew as possible. Be sure to do this outside to avoid spreading the spores to other areas of your home. Spray undiluted distilled white vinegar over the affected area and wait at least 10 minutes. For stubborn stains, place a cloth soaked in vinegar over the spot. Scrub the cushions with a brush, then clean with a sponge dipped in water and a small amount of detergent. Rinse and allow air-dry completely in a sunny spot.
Oil stains: Remove greasy stains from sunscreen, problems spray, and food by sprinkling cornstarch or blistering soda on the cloth. Wait 15 minutes for the oil to be absorbed, then scrape off the powder with a straightedge like a ruler or credit card. Repeat as needed until the stain is gone.
Tree sap: Use an enzyme-based stain remover ($iv, Target) to the stain, then sprinkle some powdered detergent on top to create a paste. Scrub gently with a castor and rinse with hot water. If the discoloration remains, wash with oxygen bleach ($x, Amazon) to restore the colour.

Many outdoor cushions and pillows are treated with a special coating that resists water and stains. Replenish this blanket or protect untreated fabrics with a protective textile spray like Scotchgard Water and Sun Shield ($8, Amazon), ensuring the cushions are completely make clean beforehand to avoid sealing in dirt or stains.