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How to Clean & Maintain Sunbrella Outdoor Cushions
Sunbrella cushions offer the perfect blend of style, comfort, and resilience for outdoor spaces. Designed with solution-dyed acrylic fibers, they’re resistant to UV rays, mold, mildew, and stains - making them a long-term investment that’s easy to maintain.
Routine Care for Everyday Cleanliness
- Brush Off Debris: After each use or a windy day, gently brush off dirt and dust with a soft brush or vacuum using an upholstery attachment.
- Quick Spot Cleaning: Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Mix 1 tsp of mild dish detergent with 1 cup of lukewarm water, lightly spray on the area, then rinse thoroughly and let it air dry.
Deep Cleaning for Removable Covers
Hand Washing
- Fill a basin with warm water and add ¼ cup of gentle liquid soap per gallon.
- Submerge the cushion cover and gently scrub with a sponge or soft brush.
- Rinse well with clean water and air-dry out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Machine Washing
- Close all zippers before washing.
- Use a cold, gentle cycle with mild detergent only.
- Do not machine-dry - allow the cover to air-dry completely.
How to Tackle Tough Stains
| Stain Type | DIY Solution | Recommended Cleaner |
|---|---|---|
| Oil-Based (e.g., butter, grease) | Apply cornstarch to absorb oil, scrape with a dull knife, then clean with mild soap and warm water. | Sunbrella Extract™ Oil-Based Stain Remover |
| Protein (e.g., egg, bird droppings) | Spray with mild soapy water, gently scrub, rinse thoroughly. | Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Cleaner |
| Mildew | Mix 1 tsp dish soap + 1 tsp bleach in 1 cup of water. Spray, wait 15 minutes, scrub, rinse thoroughly. | Sunbrella Renew™ Mold & Mildew Remover |
| Ink, Wine, Juice | Apply isopropyl alcohol or a mix of mild soap and hydrogen peroxide. Rinse thoroughly. | Sunbrella Erase™ Spot Remover |
Preventing Mold & Mildew
- Keep It Dry: Store cushions in a dry, well-ventilated space when not in use.
- Let the Sun Help: Occasionally place cushions in direct sunlight to help kill spores naturally.
- Regular Rinsing: Monthly rinsing with a hose helps remove airborne pollutants and spores.
Apply Sunbrella Restore™ for Extra Protection
- After cleaning, make sure the fabric is completely dry.
- Spray Sunbrella Restore™ evenly over the surface.
- Allow to dry for at least 12 hours before using or storing.
Final Tips
- Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers - use only soft bristles or sponges.
- Never machine-dry Sunbrella fabric, as heat can damage the fibers.
- Follow specific instructions on any commercial cleaner label before use.