We all want our outdoor furniture to stay clean and fresh, and Sunbrella fabric needs special care to stay looking its best. Whether you're trying to remove bird poop, sticky tree sap, or spilled drinks, using the right cleaning method is important. While this fabric is tough and made to handle outdoor weather, cleaning it the wrong way could harm its protective coating and might even cancel your warranty.
According to Glen Raven Custom Fabrics, the makers of Sunbrella, "For most spills and stains, soap and water is the best cleaning solution. Simply blot – don't rub – with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess liquid."
This sturdy fabric needs regular cleaning to keep it in good shape. Think of it like washing your car – the sooner you clean up a mess, the easier it is to remove. Many people make the mistake of using harsh cleaners, but simple solutions often work best. You don't need fancy products to keep your Sunbrella fabric looking great – just some basic care and the right cleaning steps.
All-Weather Fabric Cleaning Essentials
While Sunbrella fabric is designed to withstand the elements, we'll need a few key cleaning supplies to keep it looking its best.
Even the most durable outdoor fabrics need proper care and maintenance to maintain their beauty and performance over time.
For regular maintenance, gather mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft brush to remove dirt and debris.
We'll also want cornstarch for oil-based stains, plus fabric protector for retreatment.
Remember to rinse thoroughly after cleaning to prevent mold and mildew.
Let's explore what we need to know about properly maintaining our Sunbrella fabrics, from the essential cleaning steps to the common mistakes we should avoid.
While cleaning these durable fabrics isn't complicated, following the right techniques will help us preserve their quality and extend their lifespan.
We'll walk through the do's and don'ts of Sunbrella fabric care, ensuring you'll have all the knowledge needed to keep your outdoor furnishings looking fresh and beautiful.
Things to Do When Cleaning Sunbrella Fabric
Cleaning Sunbrella fabric properly requires attention to detail and following specific steps to guarantee the best results while maintaining the fabric's durability. The process starts with basic preparation and progresses through various cleaning intensities depending on the level of dirt or staining, ultimately preserving the fabric's protective qualities and appearance.
- Remove loose debris – Brush or vacuum the fabric surface to prevent dirt from becoming embedded during cleaning.
- Spot treat fresh spills – Blot immediately with a clean cloth to prevent stains from setting.
- Prepare cleaning solution – Mix 1/4 cup mild soap with a gallon of lukewarm water for general cleaning.
- Gentle scrubbing – Use soft bristle brush in circular motions to work the solution into the fabric.
- Create stronger solution for tough stains – Combine bleach and soap mixture for mildew and severe soiling.
- Allow proper soaking time – Let cleaning solution sit for 15 minutes on heavily soiled areas.
- Thorough rinsing – Remove all soap residue to prevent buildup and discoloration.
- Complete drying – Allow fabric to air dry fully before using or storing.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Sunbrella Fabric
Proper care of Sunbrella fabric requires awareness of potentially damaging cleaning practices that can compromise its durability and appearance.
Understanding what to avoid during the cleaning process is essential for maintaining the fabric's water-repellent properties and preserving its vibrant colors for years to come.
- Harsh chemical cleaners (bleach, ammonia, solvents) – These aggressive cleaning agents break down the fabric's protective coating and cause fading.
- Hard bristle brushes and abrasive pads – These tools can create permanent scratches and cause fraying of the fabric fibers.
- Machine drying – High heat from dryers leads to shrinkage and weakens the fabric's structural integrity.
- Delayed spill cleanup – Allowing spills to set makes stain removal more difficult and can permanently discolor the fabric.
- Damp storage – Storing cushions while wet creates an environment for mold and mildew growth, which can deteriorate the fabric.
Steps
Keeping your Sunbrella fabric clean is essential for maintaining its appearance and extending its lifespan. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques guarantee that your outdoor furniture remains vibrant and resistant to stains, mold, and mildew.
Following the correct cleaning steps will help preserve the fabric's water-repellent properties while effectively removing dirt and grime.
Step 1: Remove loose dirt and debris by brushing the fabric surface
Step 2: Mix 1/4 cup mild soap with one gallon of lukewarm water
Step 3: Apply the cleaning solution to the fabric using a soft bristle brush
Step 4: Gently scrub the fabric and allow the solution to penetrate
Step 5: Thoroughly rinse the fabric with clean water until all soap residue is gone
Step 6: For removable covers, machine wash on cold delicate cycle with mild detergent
Step 7: If treating mold, prepare a solution of 1 cup bleach and 1/4 cup soap per gallon of water
Step 8: Apply mold solution to affected areas and let soak for 15 minutes
Step 9: Scrub treated areas and rinse completely
Step 10: Allow fabric to air dry completely before use
Final Thoughts
While maintaining Sunbrella fabric may seem like a detailed process, we've found that following these cleaning methods will help your outdoor furniture stay beautiful for years to come.
Regular cleaning with mild soap per gallon of water, prompt attention to stains, and proper air drying are key.
For ideal cleaning and longevity, protect your fabrics with protective agents after cleaning and use a gentle 1 cup bleach solution to remove mold.
With proper care and cleaning, Sunbrella fabrics can maintain their beauty and durability for many years.
Invest in the longevity of your Sunbrella fabrics through consistent maintenance, and they'll reward you with lasting beauty and performance.
The key is to address stains promptly using the appropriate cleaning methods – whether it's a simple soap and water solution for regular cleaning, machine washing for removable pieces, or specialized treatments for tough stains and mildew.
By following these cleaning guidelines and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you can keep your Sunbrella fabrics looking fresh and vibrant.
Don't forget to reapply fabric protector after deep cleaning to guarantee continued resistance to water and stains.
Take action today to protect your investment and enjoy your Sunbrella fabric items for seasons to come.
