With wrapping up another summer season it is time to clean your outdoor patio cushions for a few more uses this fall. Outdoor furniture can get dirty with grime, mold and other stains. Outdoor furniture can last for years but you have to care for it properly to help it last. Here are some tips on how to clean your outdoor patio cushions properly, but it’s always best to check for specific cleaning instructions on the cushion tags.

Things You Will Need:

• Spray Bottle
• Detergent
• Soft-Bristled Brush
• Borax
• Warm Water
• Oxygen-based Bleach

Machine Wash Outdoor Cushions

If machine washing is an option for your outdoor cushions here are a few tips. First, make sure using a washing machine is a viable option on the tags of your fabric. Before placing the cushions in the washer shake the covers to remove any loose debris. You can apply a solution to any stains now. After washing you can either let the cushions air dry or you can place the cushions in the dryer but remove them before they are completely dry.

Hand Wash Outdoor Cushions

Most outdoor furniture cushions can be hand washed by mixing 1 tsp. mild dish soap, 1 tsp. Borax and 1 quart of warm water.  With all these mixed together spray solution on both sides of the cushion. Let the solution set into the fabric for about 15 minutes, making sure it does not fully dry. Wash the solution off with clean water and prop up the cushion to dry.

Treating Specific Stains

• Oil – When cleaning up after spilling oil, absorb any excess with a cloth. Apply an absorbent powder such as cornstarch to help absorb the rest of the stain. After it sits about 10-15 minuets use a straight edge to scrape it away.
• Mold and Mildew – Create a cleaning solution with one part Borax and four parts warm water. Generously apply the solution to the cushion and use a microfiber cloth to blot out the stain. The solution may need to sit up to 20 minutes prior to blotting depending on the severity of the stain. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Bird Droppings – Using a cloth remove as much of the bird droppings are possible. Use hand wash cleaning solution you previously made and spray it on the stain. Allow it to soak into the fabric and then clean the cushion with a soft-bristled brush to clean off any remains. Rinse with warm water.

For all cleaning questions and concerns please contact us today!  Our FabriCare of Greenville experts are here to help! Be sure to sign up for our door to door delivery and dry cleaning services that save you time.