How to Clean Sunbrella Patio Cushions

How to Clean Sunbrella® Outdoor Patio Cushions: A Step-by-Step Guide

One of the biggest advantages of Sunbrella fabric is its durability and easy maintenance. With regular care and prompt attention to spills, your outdoor cushions can look beautiful for years. Here's a complete guide to cleaning Sunbrella cushions and removing common outdoor stains.

Routine Cleaning for Everyday Dirt

Regular cleaning helps prevent dirt and debris from becoming embedded in the fabric.

What You'll Need

• Soft-bristle brush (be careful with brushes, they may cause pilling)
• Garden hose
• Mild soap (such as Dawn dish soap or Woolite)
• Bucket of lukewarm water
• Clean towel

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Use a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt, pollen, leaves, and debris from the fabric surface.

Step 2: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Mix:

• ¼ cup mild soap
• 1 gallon lukewarm water

Step 3: Clean the Fabric

Apply the solution with a sponge, cloth, or soft brush and gently scrub the entire surface.

Step 4: Let It Soak

Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric for 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Use a garden hose to completely rinse away all soap residue.

Step 6: Air Dry

Allow cushions to air dry completely before use or storage.

Removing Specific Stains

Food and Beverage Stains

Examples:

• Ketchup
• Mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Wine
• Coffee
• Soda

What You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Water
• Soft brush

Instructions

1. Blot excess liquid immediately.
2. Clean with the soap-and-water solution.
3. Gently scrub the stained area.
4. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Tip: For stubborn food stains, repeat the process before the stain has a chance to set.

Mold and Mildew

Although Sunbrella fabrics resist mold and mildew, dirt and organic debris on the fabric can support growth.

What You'll Need

• Bleach (or Clorox Clean-Up works well)
• Mild soap
• Water
• Spray bottle or bucket

Cleaning Solution

Mix:

• 1 cup bleach
• ¼ cup mild soap
• 1 gallon water

Instructions

1. Apply solution to the affected area.
2. Allow it to soak for up to 15 minutes.
3. Gently scrub with a soft brush.
4. Rinse thoroughly.
5. Air dry completely.

Important: Always protect surrounding plants and surfaces when using bleach.

Tree Sap

What You'll Need

• Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
• Soft cloth
• Mild soap and water

Instructions

1. Blot the sap with rubbing alcohol.
2. Continue until the sap softens and lifts.
3. Wash with soap and water.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Grease, Sunscreen, and Body Oils

What You'll Need

• Cornstarch or baking soda
• Dish soap designed to cut grease (such as Dawn)
• Soft brush

Instructions

1. Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain.
2. Let sit for 15 minutes to absorb oils.
3. Vacuum or brush away powder.
4. Clean with a grease-cutting soap solution.
5. Rinse thoroughly.

Red Wine

What You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Water
• Soft brush

Instructions

1. Blot immediately—do not rub.
2. Clean with soap and water.
3. Repeat as needed.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

For older stains, use the bleach solution outlined in the mold and mildew section.

Pollen Stains

What You'll Need

• Vacuum or soft brush
• Mild soap solution

Instructions

1. Vacuum or brush off dry pollen first.
2. Clean remaining residue with soap and water.
3. Rinse thoroughly.

Important: Never wet pollen before removing it, as this can spread the stain.

Best Products to Keep on Hand

• Dawn Dish Soap
• Woolite
• Soft-bristle cleaning brush
• Isopropyl alcohol (70%)
• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Household bleach
• White microfiber cloths
• Garden hose with spray nozzle

Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Cushions

✔ Brush off debris weekly during peak season.
✔ Clean spills as soon as possible.
✔ Allow cushions to dry completely after rain.
✔ Store cushions during extended periods of non-use.
✔ Use furniture covers when practical to reduce dirt buildup.
✔ Perform a thorough cleaning at the beginning and end of each patio season.

With proper care, Sunbrella cushions can maintain their color, comfort, and appearance for many years of outdoor enjoyment.