How to Clean Outdoor Cushions So They Last for Years

Patio furniture is a wonderful way to make your outdoor space feel more inviting. But after a season spent outdoors, your outdoor furniture's cushions can build up with fallen leaves, dirt, mold, pet hair, and more debris. Because patio cushions are so susceptible to wear and tear, you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning and maintaining them to ensure they last longer than just one season. Whether you spilled a bit of grease on them while dining al fresco or your dog got them dirty during play time, outdoor cushions can easily be revived with some common household cleaning supplies.

How Often to Clean Outdoor Cushions

How often you clean outdoor cushions depends on a few factors, including weather conditions, frequency of use, and the level of dirt or stains they accumulate. "If your patio is exposed to heavy rain, humidity, or dusty environments, your cushions may require more frequent cleaning," says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of Aspen Clean. "These conditions can lead to the accumulation of dirt, mold, mildew, or stains, requiring more regular maintenance." With that that in mind, a general guideline is to clean your outdoor patio cushions at least once or twice a season.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials and tools on hand before getting started.

General Cleaning

The following materials are needed for routine cleaning.

• Tarp or plastic sheet
• Soft bristled brush
• Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
• Natural detergent or dish soap
• Hose with spray attachment
• Bucket
  

Stain Removal

You'll only need the following materials if your outdoor cushions have specific stains you want to target.

• Distilled white vinegar
• Sponge or microfiber cloth
• Cornstarch or baking soda
• Ice pack or ice cubes
• Blunt knife or spoon
• Dish soap
• Rubbing alcohol

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Some outdoor cushions have removable covers that are machine washable. Those can be cleaned according to the instructions listed on the care tag. If your cushions need to be cleaned by hand, we recommend doing so by following the steps outlined below.

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Area

Before getting started, choose an area in your yard that's suitable for cleaning your outdoor cushions. Put down a clean tarp or plastic sheet to protect the ground and lay the cushions on top.

Step 2: Clear Away Debris

If loose debris, like leaves, dirt, or twigs, have accumulated on your cushions, you'll need to remove them before deep cleaning. "Use a soft brush or dry cloth to gently wipe off larger particles," says Val Oliveira, the owner Val's Cleaning Services. "This prevents dirt from spreading and enhances the efficiency of the cleaning process."

Step 3: Vacuum

Next, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently vacuum the cushions. "This helps eliminate bigger particles, dust, and pet hair that may have accumulated on the surface." says Oliveira. "Make sure to cover all areas, including crevices and seams, to achieve a thorough cleaning."

Step 4: Clean the Cushions

Once all debris has been removed from the cushions, check for spots and stains, which you will want to focus on most when cleaning. "Test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous cushion area first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage," says Sokolowski.

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of natural dish soap or detergent.
2. Dip a soft brush or sponge in the cleaning solution, then scrub the cushions in a circular motion.
   

Step 5: Rinse the Cushions

After cleaning the cushions, rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue or remaining dirt. "You can use a hose with a spray attachment or buckets of water for this purpose," says Sokolowski. Ensure that you you've rinse the cushions from all angles.

Step 6: Let Cushions Air Dry

Let the cushions air dry after cleaning before putting them back in place. "It's best to put them in a well-ventilated area," says Sokolowski. "Make sure both sides of the cushions are completely dry to prevent mold or mildew growth."

Step 7: Fluff the Cushions

Once the cushions are dry, fluff them up and restore their shape by gently patting them. "This will help maintain their appearance and ensure they are comfortable when you use them again," says Sokolowski.

How to Remove Stains on Outdoor Cushions

If your outdoor cushions have stubborn stains that won't budge with soap and water, there are some alternative cleaning methods to try. Follow these steps from Oliveira to remove mold and mildew, oil, and tree sap stains. Be sure to test a small patch of fabric before cleaning to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.

Mold and Mildew

Being exposed to outside elements, like rain and humidity, means patio cushions can sometimes build up with mold and mildew. Distilled white vinegar is a powerful cleaning agent against these spots.

1. Mix equal parts water and distilled white vinegar.
2. Dampen a cloth or sponge with the solution and blot the affected area.
3. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub the stain.
4. Rinse with clean water and air dry.

Oil Stains

Dining al fresco can leave patio furniture susceptible to oil stains from food, but a little cornstarch or baking soda can easily clean up these mishaps.

1. Sprinkle an absorbent material (cornstarch or baking soda) on the stain.
2. Let it sit to absorb the oil, then brush it off.
3. Dampen a cloth with natural dish soap and warm water.
4. Blot the stain with the cloth.
5. Rinse with clean water.
6. Air dry.
   

Tree Sap

If your patio furniture is under a tree, it's possible that sap has dripped onto the cushions and left stains. The sticky substance can be removed in a few easy steps.

1. Apply an ice pack or ice cubes in a plastic bag to harden the sap.
2. Scrape off the hardened sap with a blunt knife or spoon.
3. Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and blot any remaining residue.
4. Rinse with clean water.
5. Air dry.
   

How to Maintain Outdoor Cushions

Cleaning outdoor cushions can be time consuming. To ensure you only have to do this chore once or twice a season, practicing proper care is key.

• Use protective covers designed for outdoor furniture to protect the cushions from dust, dirt, UV rays, and weather conditions when not in use, says Oliveira.
• Regularly rotate and flip your outdoor patio cushions to distribute the wear evenly and help maintain their shape, says Sokolowski.
• Brush off loose dirt and debris from the cushions as they appear.
• Avoid abrasive materials or harsh cleaning agents that can damage the fabric or stuffing, says Sokolowski.
• Consider storing the cushions indoors during extreme weather conditions or extended periods of non-use, says Oliveira.