How To Wash Outdoor Furniture Cushions

How to Wash Outdoor Furniture Cushions

Outdoor furniture cushions provide comfort and style to your outdoor living space, but they also need regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and longevity. Whether they're made of fabric, canvas, or other materials, proper washing techniques can help extend the life of your cushions and keep them looking their best.

Materials you will need:

Soft-bristled brush or sponge
Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
Bucket or large container
Garden hose or pressure washer
Baking soda (optional)
Vinegar (optional)

Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

Before washing your cushions, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris. This will help prevent dirt from being ground into the fabric during washing. If the cushions are heavily soiled, you can gently vacuum them to remove excess dirt.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill a bucket or large container with warm water. Add a few drops of mild dish soap or laundry detergent to the water and stir to dissolve. If the cushions are particularly dirty or stained, you can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the solution to enhance its cleaning power. Alternatively, you can add a half cup of vinegar to the solution for its deodorizing properties.

Step 3: Scrub the Cushions

Immerse the cushions in the cleaning solution and gently scrub them with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Avoid using harsh brushes or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric. Pay attention to areas with stains or heavy dirt buildup.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Once the cushions have been scrubbed, rinse them thoroughly with clean water using a garden hose or pressure washer. Be sure to remove all the soap residue to prevent it from leaving a sticky residue on the cushions.

Step 5: Air Dry

After rinsing, allow the cushions to air dry in a shaded area. Do not put them in the dryer, as this can damage the fabric and foam filling. If the cushions are thick or have multiple layers, it may take several hours or even days for them to dry completely.

Additional Tips:

For heavily stained cushions, you may need to apply a stain remover before washing. Test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area of the cushion first to ensure it does not damage the fabric.
If you do not have a garden hose or pressure washer, you can use a sponge or cloth dipped in clean water to rinse the cushions thoroughly.
If the cushions have mildew or mold, you can treat them with a bleach solution. Mix one part bleach with four parts water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
To prevent fading, avoid washing cushions in direct sunlight.
Regular cleaning will help extend the life of your outdoor furniture cushions. Try to wash them at least twice a season or as needed.