How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

You may not realize it, but your outdoor cushions and pillows have to withstand a lot. They’re up against direct sunlight, rain, dirt and dust, sticky fingers, greasy sunblock splatters, and the list goes on and on. While they’re made with performance fabric designed to endure harsh conditions, cleaning outdoor cushions periodically increases their longevity and keeps their good looks intact, which saves you money on repairs and replacements.

We’ve put together a guide to show you how to clean outdoor cushions to avoid lasting stains and damage from food, wildlife, mold, and other messes. Find everything you need to keep your pillows pristine in the step-by-step instructions and care tips below.

Did you accidentally spill red wine on your white outdoor sofa? Or maybe a bird left its mark on your new throw pillows? Don’t fret! You can spot clean these stain types using the following steps.

Supplies needed

• Borax
• Mild dish soap
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Mix one teaspoon of Borax, one teaspoon of mild dish soap, and one quart of warm water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution directly onto the stain and allow it to soak for a few minutes.
3. Work the solution into the fabric with a clean cloth.
4. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
5. Rinse away all the soap residue with clean water.
6. Prop your cushion on its side to air-dry.

Oils from sunscreen, bug spray, or food can get onto pillow fabric, attracting dirt and grime. But don’t worry—you can remove these stains with a dry absorbent powder like cornstarch or baking soda. Follow these steps to clean outdoor cushions.

Supplies needed

• Microfiber cloth
• Baking soda or cornstarch
• Butter knife, spoon, or squeegee
• Mild dish soap

While some fabrics, like solution-dyed acrylic, don’t promote mold and mildew growth, the fungi can still form on dirt and other foreign substances that haven’t been removed from the fabric. If you see grime on your cushions, try these simple methods to keep your pillows and cushions fresh and clean.

Instructions

1. Use a dry cloth to remove as much mold and mildew as possible.
2. Mix one part Borax with four parts warm water in a spray bottle. You can also try hydrogen peroxide instead of Borax.
3. Generously spritz the solution on the cushion and let it soak for 15–30 minutes.
4. Use a microfiber cloth to blot the stain. For tough stains, scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
5. Rinse the cushion with clean water, and place it on its side to air-dry.

Deep cleaning outdoor chair cushions before storing them at the end of the season is a smart move to repel pests and prevent mold and mildew growth. We have two methods you can try to give your pillows a good, thorough cleansing.

Instructions

1. Prepare a solution of ¼ cup of mild soap and one cup of bleach per gallon of lukewarm water.
2. Rinse your cushions with clean water to remove loose dirt, dust, or debris.
3. Scrub the bleach mixture all over the fabric with the sponge or brush.
4. Let your cushions sit for 5–10 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
6. Air-dry your cushions on their sides.

Instructions

1. Mix dish soap and water in one container, and vinegar and water in another at a one-to-one ratio.
2. Rinse off loose dirt, dust, or debris from cushions with clean water.
3. Scrub your cushions all over with the soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
4. Apply the vinegar solution to the fabric, and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
5. Thoroughly rinse with clean water.
6. Prop cushions on their sides to air-dry.