Taking care of your patio cushions means they will last longer and look better too. Check the care instructions if you still have them but if not most outdoor cushions can be cleaned with the following few steps. If you're unsure then test this on an unseen part of one cushion (such as the underside) to make sure you're happy with the results. Wear protective gloves to avoid cleaning solutions irritating hands.
Cleaning a Cushion (Dirt spots and General Grubbiness)
Add a few capfuls of mild detergent to a bucket of warm water and froth up to form soap suds. Dip a sponge in the water and gently scrub the cushions especially those parts of the cushions which are particularly dirty. Rinse the cushions with clean water but avoid getting them too wet as this will facilitate drying. Allow the cushions to dry by laying them out in the sun (turn them to make sure that both sides are dry) or in a warm room. Cushions need to be thoroughly dried before they are replaced on furniture or put into storage to prevent mold and mildew.
Cleaning a Patio Cushion which has become Mildewed
If cushions have already become damaged by mildew, then create a solution of 1 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent to 1 quart of warm water and add 1 teaspoon of borax. Soak the cushions on both sides with the solution (it will need to penetrate to kill the spores). Let the solution soak in for 15 minutes then gently scrub any particularly dirty areas. Rinse the cushions- you can use a garden hose if necessary to rinse the cushions of all the cleaning solution and dry thoroughly.
Protect Your Cushions from Getting Dirty
If the protective coating on cushions is wearing off (or they did not have one in the first place) then you can give your patio cushions a spray on all sides with fabric protector such as Scotch Guard. Follow instructions on the spray can before use and be sure to test on an unseen area.
Be Especially Careful with Sun Cream
Take care when using your patio cushions not to allow sun cream or oil soak into the material. This can be very damaging to the fabric and is difficult to clean. Wipe off right away if you notice sun tan lotion on the fabric or treat with a commercial fabric stain remover.
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