Your outdoor fabrics are exposed to all the elements— this includes sunlight, rainfall, and even critters, like bugs and squirrels. Though your outdoor fabrics, such as cushions, curtains and drapes, often come with a protective coating, there are a few extra things you can do to keep them looking new and in great condition for a very long time.
Outdoor fabrics are treated with a coating that helps resist fading from days in the sun and mildew from excessive moisture. With fabrics like Sunbrella®, the raindrops literally roll off instead of soaking into your cushions.
The trick is to get the most out of your outdoor fabric by protecting your cushions during rainy seasons, when you most likely won’t be using them anyway. Cover them or store them in your backyard shed.
If you do leave them out in the rain now and again, it’s a good idea to shake them off after rainfall and sit them upright to properly dry off.
To delay wear and tear, it’s important to not let dust and debris accumulate on the surface of your cushions. • Routinely give them a good shake to toss off leaves and pollen. To really go a step further, you can vacuum your cushions as well. • Keep your outdoor cushions out of direct sunlight and rain as much as possible. • Always remove food stains. These stains can attract critters like squirrels, which might try to nibble through your cushions! • Lay a towel on top of your cushions if you're wearing sunscreen or bug repellent. The oils in these products can stain your cushions.
Some fabrics have specially formulated cleaners to remove stains without the worry of fading the fabric, so it’s advisable to do your research first. However, most fabrics tolerate a mild soap just fine.
• Mix 2 ounces of liquid soap with 1 gallon of lukewarm water. • Use a soft-bristled brush to work out stains. • Rinse thoroughly. • Prop upright to dry.
Before storing your outdoor fabric cushions for winter, vacuum off all dust and debris. Clean any spots or stains as you would ordinarily. Allow the cushions to dry completely before storing.
Don't store outdoor fabrics in tightly sealed plastic, such as garbage bags, because the fabric can't breathe, which can cause mildew to grow.
After cleaning and drying the cushions, store them in a breathable bag to protect from dust. If you want to prolong the life of your cushions, consider purchasing bags specifically designed to keep dust out while allowing for sufficient air flow. Keep in a dry place, such as the attic or a well-sealed shed. Avoid storing in a leaky or humid basement.
If mold or mildew does start growing on your cushions, try the cleaning solution of two ounces liquid soap and 1 gallon of water and scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
If this fails to remove the mildew spots, use 1/4 cup bleach with 1/4 cup liquid soap in 1 gallon lukewarm water. Scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Of course, you should always check first to see if the manufacturer advises the use of bleach.
Removable fabric covers can be washed in the washing machine with color-safe bleach.
Since sun and rain are the main enemies of outdoor fabrics, it's best to place your outdoor furniture in a covered area, under an awning or covered porch. Sitting the furniture under trees can eliminate direct sunlight, but it doesn't help with the rain, and is a prime place for bird droppings to soil your fabrics. If you can't find a suitable place, enjoy your furniture wherever is comfortable, and bring the cushions indoors when not in use.
Outdoor Fabrics offers a generous selection of outdoor fabric products by Sunbrella, including outdoor furniture cushions, outdoor drapery, outdoor curtains, and more. There are more than 1,000 fabric patterns to choose from, meaning you can find the perfect look for any style you wish to achieve. Made from durable, rugged acrylic fabrics, these products are resistant to damage from the sun, rain, and rigorous use.
Visit www.outdoorfabrics.com to learn more.
Sources http://www.networx.com/article/caring-for-outdoor-furniture-cushions http://furniture.about.com/od/outdoorfurniture/qt/out316fab.htm http://www.msue.msu.edu/objects/content_revision/download.cfm/revision_id.494150/workspace_id.-4/01500292.html/ http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/how-to-clean-patio-furniture-cushions-and-canvas/index.html http://www.marthastewart.com/275678/outdoor-furniture-care-guide/@center/276985/outdoor-living#166540
Summary Outdoor fabrics on cushions and drapery are made to be resistant to fading from the sun, rain damage, and stains. But this protective coating can't ward off all of the elements forever. Having beautiful outdoor furnishings means taking a little time throughout the year to care for those fabrics.