Methods for Refreshing Outdoor Cushions Suggested by a Textile Expert
Chillaxing on your patio furniture with an ice-cold beverage is the ultimate way to pass a sunny afternoon, but when those cozy cushions start to look a tad grubby, a good ol' rain shower won't cut it. To keep your patio furniture smelling fresh and feeling comfy, knowing how to scrub down outdoor cushions is essential.
With the right techniques and a handful of basic supplies, you can transform those grungy cushions right back into your summer paradise. We teamed up with a textile expert to get their top tips on cleaning outdoor cushions like a pro.
Kim Romine, Wash Wiz and fabric care guru at Procter & Gamble
Let's Get Started
To clean outdoor cushions, Kim Romine, the brilliant mind behind Tide, advises starting with a quick label check. "Always begin by glancing at the care labels," she suggests. Some cushion covers are detachable and ready for a spin in the washer, while others might require a more delicate touch.
The following method is mild enough for most outdoor cushions, but pay close attention to the care instructions on your individual cushions.
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Here's the Gist of it
Put in some elbow grease and your patio will be ready for company and looking fresh as a daisy. Follow these simple steps to restore your cushions and enjoy your outdoor oasis in style and comfort.
Materials You Need
- Soft scrub brush or cleaning cloth
- Hose or spray bottle
- Bucket
- Liquid laundry detergent (try Tide Original)
- Water
Let's Get Cleaning
- Reelin' it in: Begin by shaking off excess dirt from the cushions. "Remove any loose debris," says Romine. This action prevents spreading stains and scrubbing grime deeper into the fabric.
- Mixin' it up: Romine recommends a simple bucket of soapy water for a powerful cleaning agent. Combine liquid laundry detergent with water in a bucket. "It assaults stubborn body soils and can help eliminate dirt, stains, and other contaminants," Romine explains. "The quick-collapsing suds also clean faster, rinse out quicker, and provide superior stain removal." For those pesky spots, "you can spot-treat a small amount of detergent directly on the cushion," adds Romine.
- Get scrubbin': Once your solution is whipped up, grab a soft brush or cleaning cloth and give those cushions a good scrub. "Brush the cushions gently using the cleaning solution, focusing on the stained areas," Romine advises. Don't be afraid to give extra TLC to spots that need some serious attention.
- Rinse it off: Like with carpets or garments, leftover detergent can attract more dirt or cause discoloration over time. "Rinse the cushions with plenty of water using a hose to remove all cleaning products and dirt," Romine insists. Make sure no residue is left behind.
- Let it air: Moisture can lead to mildew, so drying your cushions properly is a must. "Allow the cushions to air dry indoors or in a well-ventilated area," advises Romine. If possible, stand the cushions on their sides to allow water to drain swiftly. Drying in the sun can speed up the process, but don't forget to bring your cushions inside. Prolonged direct sunlight can fade fabrics.
Regular maintenance can keep your cushions looking their best all year long. For the best results, store your cushions inside when not in use, clean monthly, and protect outdoor cushions from pets, prolonged sun, and poor weather.
By following these steps and tips, you can keep your outdoor cushions looking fresh, clean, and inviting for the entire season.
- Kim Romine, the expert from Procter & Gamble, suggests checking the care labels on your outdoor cushions before cleaning.
- To clean outdoor cushions effectively, it's recommended to make a simple solution of liquid laundry detergent and water, such as Tide Original, in a bucket.
- For stubborn stains, you can also apply a small amount of detergent directly onto the cushion and let it sit before scrubbing gently with a soft brush or cleaning cloth.
- After scrubbing, rinse the cushions thoroughly with water to remove all cleaning products and dirt, and allow them to air dry indoors or in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew.
