The year’s first barbecue is just around the corner, so you’re probably already daydreaming about it. As part of the spring cleaning this year, you might need to include your patio furniture. Despite that, it is created to withstand the element, but that does not mean they do not affect them. Moreover, your outdoor cushions are not bulletproof to bird dropping, spilt wine, tree sap and more.
If you have stored all your patio furniture for the winter, it will need a good cleaning once you put it out again. If you are wondering how to do this, keep reading to learn the secrets to sparkling-clean outdoor cushions.
All the tools you will need
Take a moment to gather all the supplies before beginning to clean the cushions. It is vital to read the cleaning labels so you do not damage anything. Many manufacturers have care sections with cleaning recommendations on their websites if you cannot find the tag. Cleaning outdoor cushions requires the following essentials:
- Tarp (to safely clean cushions)
- Soft bristle brush
- Bucket
- Hose
- Hand-held vacuum
- Dish detergent or undistilled white vinegar
Prep the area
The cushions will require air-drying throughout the day, so start this project in the morning so that they will have enough time to do so. Covering the cleaning area with a tarp will protect your lawn from damage and help prevent new stains from developing on the fabric. It is best to choose a larger tarp than a smaller one if you want enough space to wash and dry them without them overlapping.
Vacuum the cushions
If you have a hand-held vacuum or a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool, use them to clean each cushion thoroughly. The fabric border or the piping can collect a lot of crumbs. For instance, mildew and tree spores can grow in tiny pockets on the accent buttons and back of the seat. Vacuuming should be done thoroughly to remove all dry debris.
Scrub cushions with cleaning solution
This step can be approached in two ways. First, pour water and a little dish soap into a bucket. Use the bristle brush to scrub the entire cushion (both sides) with the cleaning solution.
Another eco-friendly option is to spray undiluted distilled white vinegar all over your cushions and scrub them with a bristle brush afterwards since you probably already have this cleaner in your cabinet. The white vinegar should soak into the fabric for at least 10 minutes before you scrub to remove the debris. Depending on the large or stubborn stain, you may need to wait more than 10 minutes. Accent pillow cushions without removable covers can also be cleaned using this method.
Rinse the Cushions
With the help of your garden hose, rinse your cushions thoroughly. Make sure you put the hose on a low or medium setting. Remember to rinse cushions over the tarp if you use harsh chemicals, like bleach, for cleaning. That way, you will prevent any damage to your lawn.
Air-dry the cushions
Ensure the cushions aren’t sopping wet by patting them with a towel and letting them air dry. You should place them in a sunny area and rotate each pillow every few hours. Depending on the heat and humidity, drying can take all day. Before returning a cushion to your seating area, ensure it is completely dry. Keep in mind that residual moisture can cause mildew.
Additional Protection
Ensure you clean outdoor cushions at least once a year to ensure their longevity. Make sure they are protected from the elements by investing in outdoor covers. Protecting your cushions and avoiding issues like tree sap or bird droppings landing on the fabric is possible. Do not let stains sit on the surface if you notice them immediately. Using a fabric protection spray lasting a year or two is also possible. It is possible to prevent new stains in the future by simply applying a fabric protection spray to the surface.
Tips for removing stains
If you notice a stain on your cushion, treating it as soon as possible is best. Here are some methods to help you.
- Grass stains – Scrubbing liquid detergent with stain-removing enzymes into a cushion’s fabric is the best way to eliminate grass stains. You can use any regular brush and rinse the pillow after scrubbing.
- Oil stains – For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then, using a credit card or ruler, you can scrape off the powder after the stain has been absorbed. Continue to repeat the process if the stain isn’t removed on the first attempt.
- Mould and mildew – First, scrape all loose mildew or mould with a brush. Once the stain is clean, spray it with white vinegar and allow it to sit for about 20 minutes. Next, scrub the stain with a brush and switch to a sponge with dishwashing liquid. Rinse and let it air dry after washing.
- Tree sap – A tree sap stain should be treated with an enzyme-based stain remover and then sprinkled with powdered detergent. Apply the paste using a brush, gently scrub the stain, and rinse well.
Conclusion
Taking care of your patio furniture, including the cushions, will improve the look of your backyard and the lifespan of your items. These simple steps will help you keep a clean and good-looking patio area. Of course, if you think you cannot handle such a task, you can always call local house cleaners to come and take care of it.
