It’s a glorious summer day, and you are ready to relax on your clean outdoor furniture in your backyard. But as you uncover your beloved patio set, you discover a less-than-inviting sight.
Yes, to your surprise, it is grimy, dusty, and weather-worn furniture covers.
Don’t let this detour you from enjoying the great outdoors. With a bit of know-how and a touch of elbow grease, you can effortlessly wash outdoor furniture covers. This will transform them from drab to fab in no time.
So, without further delay, get ready to review your outdoor haven. We will dive into the art of cleaning outdoor furniture covers in this blog because your patio paradise awaits.
But, How do Clean Furniture Outdoor Covers?
Cleaning your outdoor furniture covers is a crucial step in maintaining the longevity and appearance of your patio oasis. Here are some steps to clean outdoor furniture covers:
Check the label to see if the cover is machine washable. If it is, wash it in cold water with mild detergent.
If the cover is not machine washable, hand wash it in a bucket of mild soapy water. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the cover.
Rinse the cover thoroughly with clean water to remove all the soapy water.
Lastly, hang the cover to dry in the sun. This will kill any remaining mold or mildew and prevent the cover from fading.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning patio furniture covers:
If the cover is heavily soiled, you may need to soak it in the soapy water solution. Keep it soaked for a few hours before scrubbing.
If the cover has mold or mildew, you can add a cup of bleach to the soapy water solution.
Do not put patio covers in the dryer. This can shrink the cover and make it unfair for further usage.
Inspect patio covers regularly for signs of wear and tear. If the cover is damaged, replace it as soon as possible to protect your furniture.
Clean outdoor furniture attracts attention. By following the tips mentioned above, you can keep your patio furniture covers clean and new for the years to come.
Different Types of Outdoor Furniture Covers
When it comes to outdoor furniture covers, there are several types to choose from, each with its unique qualities and benefits. Let’s explore the different options available:
Polyester: It is a popular option due to its durability. It is also resistant to shrinking, wrinkles, stretching, mildew, and mold. It’s also typically machine washable, but if it has a UV-resistant coating, you’ll need to hand wash it.
Nylon: This is yet another durable option in the clean outdoor furniture cover category. This is because it is too machine washable and resistant to a variety of elements.
Vinyl: It is a durable and shiny material that is resistant to heat and pests. It can be machine washed, but you should turn it inside out first.
Polypropylene: It is a less expensive option that’s not durable as other materials. It can be machine washed, but it will deteriorate more quickly.
Items Needed for the Cleaning
You don't need a plethora of products to clean outdoor furniture covers. You only need a few simple items to get the job done effectively. Here’s what you’ll need:
Mild soap: A soap like dish soap or laundry detergent will work well. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the cover.
Warm water: Warm water will help to dissolve the soap and make it easier to clean the cover.
Bucket: A bucket is an excellent way to mix the soap and water solution. It can also be useful in soaking the cover if necessary.
Soft-bristled brush: A soft-bristled brush will help to scrub the cover without damaging it.
Garden hose: A garden hose can rinse the cover after cleaning.
Air-drying rack: An air-drying rack will help the cover dry quickly and prevent it from mildew.
Methods of Cleaning Outdoor Furniture
When you think of cleaning outdoor furniture covers, there are two main methods: machine and hand washing. Let’s break them down:
Machine Washing:
Ensure that the cover is machine friendly to avoid damaging it.
Fill the washing machine with the appropriate amount of water and add detergent.
Wash the covers separately, and avoid mixing them with other fabrics to prevent potential staining.
Check the label for optimal washing temperature and use lukewarm water as a precaution.
Follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer.
After washing, allow the covers to air dry in an open area away from direct sunlight.
Hand Washing:
To wash outdoor furniture covers, prepare a bucket of soapy water using mild soap.
Use a brush with soft bristles, dip it into the soapy water, and gently clean the cover.
Minimize brush strokes and rinse the cover thoroughly with water.
Continue rinsing until so soapy water remains, checking by twisting the cover.
If necessary, repeat the rinsing process until all soap residue is gone.
After washing, let the cover air dry in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.
FAQ
Does vinegar clean outdoor furniture?
Yes, vinegar is a natural disinfectant that helps remove stubborn stains. It can help to remove dirt, grime, and mold. It can also remove mineral deposits on materials like metal or plastic. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle to wash outdoor furniture. Spray the solution onto the furniture and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the furniture with a soft brush and rinse it with water.
How do you remove mold spores from fabric furniture?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you to tackle this issue effectively:
Take the furniture outdoors first.
Then, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose mold spores from the fabric.
For Fabrix furniture with removable covers, remove them and gently brush off any visible mold.
Expose the furniture to sunlight now. Place it in direct sunlight for several hours.
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar.
Clean the affected area with a clean cloth or sponge.
Depending on the cleaning solution, rinse the fabric thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
Lastly, allow the fabric to dry completely.
How do you remove algae from furniture covers?
To remove algae from furniture covers, mix white vinegar and water and spray the solution onto the affected areas. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse with water.
Can you wash polyester furniture covers?
Absolutely, you can wash polyester furniture covers. But, it’s crucial to note that some polyester covers may have additional treatments or coating that affect their washability. Always refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer or consult professional cleaners if you have any doubts or concerns.
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