Our environment here in Arizona really puts our outdoor furniture through its paces, but there are many things you can do to help your outdoor patio furniture investment last longer. Keeping your cushions clean is a good start. With regular maintenance your cushions will last longer, feel better and provide you with years of service.
Your cushions should be deep cleaned at least annually and spot cleaned on a regular basis. Using a small amount of Dawn dish soap in a bucket of warm water, soak your cushion thoroughly. Then using a soft nylon brush remove the debris in the direction of the fabric. Rinse thoroughly and stand on end to air dry.
If you have mildew stains on your fabric, you can add a cup of bleach to your washing solution. Allow to sit for 15 minutes. Using a soft bristled brush, clean the area in the direction of the fabric, rinse well and air dry.
Do not use power washers, steam or remove covers to clean your Sunbrella fabrics! Most cushions do have zippers but the covers are not meant to be removed and washed. Covers are put on in the factory using machines. Replacing the covers after washing at home may be impossible and the cushion likely will not have the same polished look as it did before. If you are unsure about your cushions, contact the manufacturer.
Sunbrella fabrics are factory treated with a proprietary solution to repel water and stains. It does last for a few years, but it does need to be replenished over time. If your cushions are not repelling water, it is time for re treatment.
When your cushions are not in use they should be covered with appropriate furniture coverings or moved into shaded or other protected areas away from rodent activity. Check under covers often.
Other cushion issues often include seam failure. Not all Sunbrella cushions are made with the same proprietary Sunbrella threads and may fail long before the actual fabric, so always know what you are getting when making a new cushion purchase.
When you get those new cushions home, call Sunset Patio Restoration to put your patio and pretty cushions on a regular maintenance schedule. We provide Bi monthly, monthly and quarterly services. Also, one time, special occasion and commercial services are available.