How To Clean Your Outdoor Cushions

How to Clean Your Outdoor Cushions

Cascadia Outdoor Cushions Cleaning Guide

Keeping your outdoor cushions clean is easier than you think! At Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we use high-quality, solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella®, Outdura®, and Tempotest®, designed to stand up to the elements. With just a little routine maintenance, you can keep your cushions looking fresh and beautiful season after season. Plus, regular cleaning helps extend the life of the fabric, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about stains, dirt, or mildew.

Quick & Easy Routine Care

One of the best ways to maintain your outdoor cushions is to brush off dirt and debris before it becomes embedded in the fabric. If you tackle spills and stains right away, they’ll be much easier to remove!

For Fresh Spills:

• Blot, don’t rub! Use a clean, dry cloth to soak up liquid spills.
• For oil-based spills, sprinkle a little cornstarch to absorb the oil, then gently scrape it off with a straight edge.
• Spray a mild soap and water solution on the affected area (a few drops of dish soap in warm water works great!).
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Let the fabric air dry—no need for a dryer!

Deep Cleaning Your Outdoor Cushions

Even with durable, weather-resistant fabrics, a deeper clean is sometimes necessary. Whether your cushions have removable covers or are fully upholstered, we’ve got you covered with simple steps to freshen them up!

For Removable Cushion Covers:

• Hand Washing: Soak the fabric in a mixture of 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water. Lightly scrub with a sponge or soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.
• Machine Washing: Some cushion covers can go in the washing machine! If your covers are removable, check with your furniture manufacturer. Wash in cold water on the delicate cycle with a mild laundry detergent. For extra cleaning power, add 1 cup of bleach to the wash if dealing with mold or mildew. Always air dry.

For Non-Removable Cushions:

• Mix 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water.
• Use a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Air dry in a well-ventilated area.

💡 Pro Tip: Always clean the entire surface from seam to seam to avoid water rings or uneven discoloration.

What Causes Water Rings?

Water rings can form when fabric gets wet but isn't evenly cleaned or dried. When only a portion of the fabric is treated, residue from cleaning products or minerals in the water can remain, leaving visible rings as the area dries. This is why it’s essential to clean the entire surface from seam to seam and ensure thorough rinsing to remove all soap or bleach residues.

Cleaning the Foam Inside Your Cushions

It’s perfectly okay to get the foam inside your cushions wet during cleaning! In fact, the foam should be cleaned and rinsed thoroughly, as it can harbor dirt, dust, pollen, mold spores, and other debris that accumulate over time. To clean the foam, simply unzip the cushion cover and stand the cushion upright to allow excess water to drain. Let it dry in the sun for faster evaporation. This process ensures that any trapped contaminants are thoroughly removed, leaving your cushions fresher and more hygienic.

Tackling Stubborn Stains & Mildew

While solution-dyed acrylic fabrics are mold and mildew resistant, mildew can grow on dirt and organic matter left on the surface. If you notice mildew, follow these steps:

• Mix 1 cup of bleach and 1/4 cup of mild soap per gallon of water.
• Spray the solution over the entire cushion, letting it soak for 15 minutes.
• Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

For severe mildew or stubborn stains, you can increase the bleach quantity, but always test a small area first!

Why Is a Mild Bleach Solution Safe for Solution-Dyed Acrylic?

Unlike other fabrics that may fade or weaken when exposed to bleach, solution-dyed acrylic fabrics are designed to handle mild bleach solutions safely. The color in these fabrics is added during the fiber production process, not just on the surface. This means the color is locked in and won’t fade, even with occasional bleach cleaning. Using a diluted bleach solution helps break down stains and kill mildew without harming the fabric's integrity or appearance.

Avoiding Heat Damage

Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics should never be exposed to high temperatures. Do not place your cushion covers in the dryer or use an iron, as excessive heat can cause the fabric to shrink and weaken. If wrinkles persist after air drying, a steamer is safe to use on a gentle setting. Always handle with care to maintain the fabric’s durability. This type of damage is not covered under any manufacturer’s warranty, as no fabric manufacturer will warranty against improper use. To keep your cushions in the best condition, always follow the recommended care instructions.

Keeping Your Cushions Looking Their Best

• Store cushions in a dry place when not in use, especially during long periods of rain or winter months.
• Use protective covers for added protection.
• Avoid harsh scrubbing or power washing, as this can damage the fabric.
• Regularly fluff and rotate cushions to maintain their shape and even wear.
• Using a vacuum to remove surface dust and debris on a regular basis is a great idea. This simple step helps prevent dirt buildup and keeps your cushions looking their best for longer.

With these simple steps, your Cascadia Outdoor Cushions will stay looking as good as new, giving you years of comfort and style in your outdoor space. Happy lounging!