How to Keep Your Outdoor Cushions Looking Good All Season
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Outdoor cushions aren't a small investment, so obviously you want to help them last for more than one or two seasons. Many times, cushions on patio and poolside furniture are left out in the open, exposed to the weather, sun, and wind from the beginning of the season right into fall. It's no surprise that those cushions develop stains, mildew, and quickly fade.
Maintaining your outdoor cushions doesn't have to be a looming chore, but it's important to throughout the season. To keep your outdoor cushions in top condition, we connected with Katie Dills, Brand President of The Cleaning Authority. From regular cleaning to proper storage, her tips are simple and effective.
1. Keep them Clean
Outdoor furniture is exposed non-stop to airborne pollen, dust, and dirt. Washing them throughout the season will help preserve the fibers and reduce staining. Not to mention, no one wants to hang out in a dirty outdoor space. These cleaning methods can help:
Regularly use a soft bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush attachment to gently remove dust and dirt from the surface of your outdoor furniture pieces. Avoid any abrasive scrub brushes that can damage the fabric.
For deeper cleaning, mix a few drops of mild detergent with warm water, and dampen a microfiber cloth. Use this soapy water solution to gently scrub the cushions, then wipe excess moisture from the entire cushion with dry microfiber cloth. Let it air dry completely in the shade.
For stains, Carbona Pro Care Outdoor Cleaner is a great store-bought option. It's oxy-powered, non-toxic, and chlorine bleach-free. Plus, it has a gentle built-in brush and sponge applicator for easy scrubbing.
2. Buy Patio Furniture Covers
Not only do protective covers protect against pollen and dust, but they'll safeguard the fabric and its cushion layers against rain. They also help to protect cushions from the harmful effects of direct sunlight. But remember: you'll have moldy cushions if you cover them when they're wet from morning dew or after a rainstorm.
Related: How to Keep Birds Away From Your Porch
3. Apply UV Sun Protection
The sun damages fabric cushions the same way it damages our skin. As it relates to outdoor fabric, Dills shares that prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause colors and patterns on outdoor furniture cushions to fade. Even though many outdoor fabrics (Sunbrella, Outdura, Olefin, Bella Dura) are treated to help the colors last longer in the sun, this protective coating can weaken with time. Applying "sunscreen for fabric" twice a year can help protect the colors of your outdoor cushions. Many products also act as a stain and moisture repellant.
A few products we like include:
Additionally, as we already pointed out, it doesn't hurt to invest in cushion covers, or commit to moving your outdoor cushions to a shaded area on days that you're not lounging or entertaining outside. Your backyard might not look picture-perfect, but it'll definitely help provide extra protection and improve the vibrancy of your cushions over a period of time.
4. Store Cushions During the Off-Season
During periods of inclement weather or when not in use, have a dedicated storage space to store your outdoor cushions. Harsh weather can damage outdoor furniture sets, so store them in a dry place such as plastic storage bins in your garage, or a sheltered outdoor storage box. Opt for elevated storage if possible,
Fabric storage bags can also provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and pests.
Related: The Mesa Torch Brings Major Ambiance to Your Outdoor Living Space—See For Yourself
