Cleaning your patio might be a mind-boggling job. Time to clean after a thrilling outdoor party? Wondering how to go about it?
Today, we’re clarifying how to clean your filthy-looking patio furniture cushions seamlessly. No doubt stains from spills, leftovers and definitely dust from the air make it a little tricky.
But it’s all in the mind. Imagine enjoying the sunsets seated in refreshed, comfortable furniture in your backyard.
Quite the motivation to get yourself up and about transforming them. Sail along with us as we make it easier for you.
Preparation First
Well, it's important to prepare adequately for the cleaning of your cushions, starting from the covers. Taking this crucial move will give the patio furniture an incredible makeover, leaving them looking great.
First things first, set the necessary cleaning supplies and tools in place. We advise you to scan through our list and endeavour to fetch from a nearby store those missing or depleted in your pantry. After all, they’re readily available and not hard to find, but spot the best quality.
What You’ll Need
- Vacuum cleaner (optional)
- Mild liquid detergent or dishwashing soap
- Warm water
- Light microfibre towel
- Vinegar (for tough stains)
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Pressure water hose
- Soft bristle brush
- Protective clothing (dust mask, gum boots and overall clothing)
Setting the Cushions
Remove the cushions from the furniture after gathering the cleaning supplies in close proximity. Let them be separate and positioned away.
It could be on clean grassy ground. Or lay a clean waterproof plastic sheeting that the cushions will lie over while cleaning. This prevents them from catching dirt and giving you uncalled-for cleaning work.
Manufacturer’s Instructions
Then, take your time to check the manufacturer’s information on the cushions. Most manufacturers usually display details about the cushion material on the label. The label is a small piece of fabric attached.
Knowing the type and description of the cushion’s material is highly important. You will figure out the exact do’s and don’ts when handling the cushions to ensure they remain undamaged. That goes down to understanding the proper TLC and washing methods to accord the cushions and pillows on your patio furniture.
You may find the label further provides washing instructions. Once you see them, follow with precision before seeking guidance elsewhere.
Getting the Cleaning Started
When you embark on the cleaning journey, invest sufficient time in deep cleaning. That will keep your furniture sparkling and looking great for a long time. Haphazard work means you’ll find yourself cleaning them again sooner than expected.
Here’s how you clean the different types of patio furniture cushions. This is done after laying them out in the open to make cleaning as easy as possible.
Cleaning Fabric Cushions
Fabric cushions may be made up of natural fabrics or synthetic fibres. Regardless of the fabric type, a regular clean-up is vital to maintain them.
Leather or suede fabrics might need the indulgence of a cleaning professional. Much care should be taken, unlike the other materials.
Here are the steps to clean your fabric cushions regularly:
Step 1: Dust the fabric cushions
Using a small handheld vacuum with an upholstery attachment, vacuum your cushions on low suction. If the dust is little or barely noticeable, pat the cushions with a dry towel in light strokes.
Removing dust and pet hairs from the cushions makes the cleaning much easier.
Step 2: Spot treat stains
Next, loosen up stains that might seem stubborn. Sponge the stained area with vinegar or a suitable stain remover of choice. Brush gently to scour them out of the fabric.
If the stain lingers, use a higher concentration of the stain remover.
Step 3: Prepare your cleaning solution
Unlike stain removers, you shouldn’t apply the detergent or soap directly onto the cushion. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of the liquid detergent into a bucketful of warm water.
Swirl the water so that the detergent mixes with the water to form a consistent cleaning solution. You may add borax powder to boost the strength of the cleaning solution, depending on the degree of dirt.
Step 4: Scrub the cushions
Splatter the cleaning mixture onto the cushions. And start scrubbing the surface of each cushion with a brush or sponge until foam forms, lifting off the dirt.
Do it in a back-and-forth motion, remembering to use ample amounts of the cleaning solution. Also, ensure you reach all sides and corners, including the hiding spots.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly
Now that you’ve scrubbed enough, follow up with rinsing with the garden water hose. You’ll ensure all the soap comes off and the cushions are spotless clean, and suds-free.
Repeat this step until you’re sure the cushions are clean. Use additional scrubs as needed to meet a high level of cleanliness.
Step 6: Dry the cushions
Once confirmed the cushions are clean, leave them outdoors to air dry. You can set a fan close to the cushions for quicker drying.
With the excess moisture out, put them in the sun, removing all moisture to prevent mould or mildew.
Cleaning Vinyl or Plastic Cushions
Vinyl or plastic cushions are cleaned quite in the same manner as fabric cushions. Treat them with exceptional care as outlined below for the most fantastic results.
Step 1: Wipe down each cushion with a damp cloth or microfibre towel. Lift as much dirt and grime as you can. The solution in use should be soapy in the case of heavy, stubborn dirt.
Step 2: Rinse out the foam until the cushions are completely clean.
Step 3: Dry thoroughly so that no moisture stays behind. You can blot with a dry towel to speed up the drying. Then, leave the outdoor cushions under a shade to air dry.
These three steps will make your vinyl or plastic patio cushions neat and smell nice. These patio furniture cushions are easy to maintain and budget-friendly outdoor pieces.
With mild dirt, you can just spray an all-purpose cleaner rather than creating a cleaning solution.
Cleaning Wicker or Rattan Cushions
Cleaning wicker or rattan cushions is as straightforward as cleaning other cushion types. To clean the wicker furniture cushions:
Step 1: Dust the cushions with a soft brush or cloth
Step 2: Prepare your cleaning solution for use on the wicker or rattan cushions. Add a few drops of the liquid detergent to a bucket of water and stir. Confirm that the cushions were removed from the wicker furniture to avoid soaking it up with water.
Step 3: Coat the cushions with plenty of soapy water. Then begin to scrub gently until the cushions are squeaky clean.
Step 4: Rinse out the suds and leave them to air dry outside or in an air-conditioned room. And lastly, sun-dry them as a pre-emptive action for mould and mildew formation. Keep turning the cushion on all sides to ensure optimal drying.
Conclusion
With our guide, we trust you’ll regularly keep your patio cushion furniture clean. Try to clean the cushions at least twice a year to keep them in good shape. You may top it all up with a final fabric protectant spray to prevent stains and extend its clean duration.
Otherwise, the four major actions are dusting, scrubbing with soapy water, rinsing and drying.
Hopefully, cleaning this cleaning guide will be useful when the patio furniture you get from Jardina. We're all about caring for our items even after the purchasing stage.
