Outdoor cushions are constantly exposed to wind, moisture, and UV rays, which makes them more prone to wear, mould growth, and discoloration. As a result, outdoor cushions require more frequent cleaning than their indoor counterparts to avoid a buildup of debris and prevent the fabric from breaking down.

Neglecting your outdoor cushions can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria, mildew, and allergens, making them unsafe to use.

This blog will detail how you can effectively clean, store, and care for outdoor furniture cushions and fabrics properly so you can get the most out of it and enjoy it for years to come.

Maintaining Outdoor Cushions: The Basics

Different types of outdoor cushions may require different cleaning methods as each material may react differently to water, cleaning agents, and exposure to the elements. It’s important to understand the fabric and filling of your cushions to ensure proper care and avoid damage.

At Prestige Decor, we carry three main types of outdoor cushions: Instant-Dry cushions for rapid drying and comfort, Densified Fibre cushions that are mold-proof and durable, and Open Cell cushions. Here’s a helpful guide on how you can safely and effectively clean each type:

1. Instant-Dry Outdoor Cushions

Our Instant-Dry Outdoor Cushions are made from high-density polyethylene fibre, meaning they do not absorb moisture like traditional foam cushions. It also dries faster than traditional foam and is resistant to mould and mildew.

However, this does not mean that you should neglect routine maintenance. While they dry quickly and resist mould, dust and dirt can still settle on the surface. Here are two simple ways you can clean your Instant-Dry Outdoor Cushions:

Regular Surface Cleaning

If your goal is to remove dust, dirt, and light stains, then regular surface cleaning is the best method.

What You’ll Need:

• Soft brush or broom
• Mild soap or detergent (e.g., dish soap)
• Bucket of warm water
• Garden hose or spray bottle
• Clean towel

How to Do It:

1. Use a soft brush or the broom to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the cushion surface.
2. Mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bucket.
3. Dip a sponge or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the cushions. Make sure to get into the seams and corners where dirt can accumulate.
4. Use a garden hose or spray bottle to rinse the cushions thoroughly, ensuring all soap residue is removed.
5. Let the cushions air dry in a shaded area. While HDPE fibres dry quickly, direct sunlight can fade the cushion fabric over time.

Annual Deep Clean

Annual deep cleaning addresses deep-seated grime, tough stains, and any bacteria that may develop over time. This process is key to maintaining the overall hygiene and appearance of your Instant-Dry Outdoor Cushions.

What You’ll Need:

• Mild detergent
• Upholstery cleaner (optional)
• Soft brush
• Garden hose
• Clean towel

How to Do It:

1. Start by shaking off or brushing away loose debris.
2. Soak the cushions in a mild detergent solution for 10-15 minutes. Then use a soft brush to scrub all surfaces, including seams and hidden areas.
3. Rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all of the detergent. Allow the cushions to air dry in a shaded area to prevent fading.

2. Densified Fibre Padding Outdoor Cushions

Our Denfisified Fibre Padding Outdoor Cushions are made with heat-bonded polyester. They do not absorb water and typically dry within three to four hours.

Here are two cleaning methods we recommend for our Densified Fibre Padding Outdoor Cushions:

Spot cleaning

Spot cleaning works best for small stains like food spills or bird droppings. It’s most effective when addressed quickly, letting you clean the area without having to wash the whole cushion.

How to Do It:

1. Mix the mild soap (like dish soap) with warm water.
2. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the stained area. Focus only on the dirty spot, ensuring that you don’t saturate the cushion.
3. After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soap residue and let the cushion air dry. The water-resistant material will dry within a few hours.

Hose It Down

Hose your cushions down for a fast, thorough clean when they’ve accumulated dirt, especially after dusty conditions or bad weather. It’s quick, effective, and won’t cause water to soak in.

How to Do It:

• Shake the cushion or use a soft brush to remove any loose dust or debris.
• Use a garden hose to rinse the cushion thoroughly. Start at the top and work your way down, ensuring that water flows over all surfaces.
• Let the cushions air dry in a shaded area to prevent any fading from direct sunlight, although they will naturally dry quickly (3-4 hours) due to their water-resistant nature.

3. Open Cell Patio Cushion:

Prestige Decor’s Open Cell Patio Cushion is made from high-density open-cell foam. This material is quick to dry, repels water, and is designed to maintain its shape over time.

Here’s how you can effectively clean your Open Cell Patio Cushions:

1. Begin by vacuuming your cushions to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris.
2. Mix a mild soap with warm water in a bucket. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the foam.
3. Using a soft brush or sponge, scrub the cushions with the soap solution, focusing on any stains or heavily soiled areas.
4. Use a garden hose to rinse the cushions, ensuring all soap is removed.
5. Allow the cushions to air dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading.

How to Clean Outdoor Fabrics

Cleaning your outdoor fabrics separately as part of your outdoor cushion maintenance ensures a deeper clean for both the fabric and the cushion. This method allows you to focus on stubborn stains and helps preserve the fabric’s quality over time.

At Prestige Decor, our outdoor fabrics include Sunbrella, Weather-Resistant Vinyl Fabric, Outdoor Stain, UV Fabric, and more, all designed to withstand the elements and keep your outdoor space looking fresh. To thoroughly and properly clean your outdoor fabrics, do the following:

1. Remove any dirt and debris on the surface either by brushing it or giving it a good shake.
2. This step is optional but does help in lifting dirt that might be trapped in the fabric, use a handheld vacuum (preferably with an upholstery attachment) to thoroughly clean the surface before washing.
3. Mix warm water and mild soap (or detergent) in a bucket. Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals, especially if your outdoor cushion fabric has UV or stain protection.
4. Perform a test by dabbing the cleaning solution on a hidden spot. This ensures that it won’t harm the fabric’s appearance or texture before applying it on the entire surface.
5. Dip a soft-bristle brush or sponge into the soap solution and gently scrub the fabric, paying attention to stained or dirty areas. Avoid scrubbing too hard, especially on delicate fabrics.
6. Use a garden hose or a bucket of fresh water to rinse the fabric, ensuring all soap residue is removed. The residue left behind can attract more dirt and affect the fabric’s durability.
7. For persistent stains, use a fabric-safe cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water. Apply directly to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently.
8. Allow the fabric to air dry completely in a shaded area.
9. Once the fabric is dry, consider reapplying any water-repellent or UV protective sprays to maintain the fabric’s resistance to weathering and prolong its lifespan.
10. If the fabrics or cushions are not in use, store them in a dry, cool area to avoid mildew and prolong their durability.

Key Takeaways

By following the appropriate cleaning techniques for each cushion type, you ensure that your outdoor furniture remains fresh and long-lasting. Regular upkeep, spot cleaning, and deep cleaning help prevent wear and tear, while proper storage protects against mold and mildew.

For your outdoor cushion and upholstery needs, schedule a Shop @ Home or in-store consultation with Prestige Decor. Our expert designers will help you select the perfect fabrics and custom solutions to enhance your outdoor space.