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How To Clean Outdoor Furniture Cushions

How To Clean Outdoor Furniture Cushions

Over time, furnishings designed to be used outdoors can become stained or mildewed.  At Rainbow Derbyshire, we know your outdoor spaces are important.

When you’re ready to give your patio a good scrubbing, you may wonder how to clean outdoor furniture cushions – is it even possible?  Not to worry; you can make them look good as new with a little work and effort!  Whether entertaining or not, nothing’s better than kicking back in your own backyard after a stressful or hard day.

Cleaning Patio Furniture Cushions

Cushions that have been left out during the winter season often have mildew on them because of the moisture they’ve been exposed to.

If yours are the type that has zippered removable covers or cushions that are washable, you’re one of the lucky ones!  Simply follow instructions on tags. Otherwise, you can still get those cushions spotless and ready for the spring and summer seasons.

The tools you’ll need include:

  • Bucket
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Vacuum
  • Warm water
  • Sponge
  • Scrub brush
  • Towels
  • Garden hose
  • Borax
  • Fabric protector spray

First, use your vacuum upholstery attachment to remove dust and dirt.  Be sure to thoroughly vacuum seams and crevices.

Next, you’ll want to mix a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid along with 1/4 cup of borax in a bucket of warm to hot water. Borax is useful for removing mildew.  Using your sponge, scrub the mixture onto the cushions and allow to soak for about 15 or 20 minutes.

Stains should be pretreated using hydrogen peroxide or a stain treatment that’s enzyme-based.  If you pretreat for stains, wait for 30 minutes before scrubbing or sponging down the cushions.

Once your cushions are clean and free of stains, rinse thoroughly with your garden hose.  You may think a pressure washer will do a better job, but the pressure can cause damage to the fabric so use a regular water hose instead.

Absorb excess water using towels, then stand cushions on their ends so that water can easily drain off and they can completely dry.

Applying a fabric protector once your outdoor furniture cushions are completely dry will help them resist dirt and repel liquids that can cause stains such as beverages or foods typically enjoyed outdoors during spring and summer months.  Even better, you won’t have to face the chore of cleaning your cushions again before the season ends!

Nothing is more relaxing and enjoyable than spending time outdoors with family, friends and neighbours when the weather is beautiful.  Whether you’re having a barbecue or hosting an outdoor birthday party or other celebration, you can relax knowing your outdoor furniture is clean and inviting.  At Rainbow Derbyshire, we know how to clean outdoor furniture cushions. For more information contact us on 01623 443109 or [email protected].

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