Caring for Outdoor Cushions

Furniture really does a lot to spruce up an outdoor space. Fortunately, keeping your outdoor furniture fabric looking like new isn’t very complicated. A little TLC goes a long way when caring for your furniture. When you order your replacement cushions from the Foam Factory, keep these tips in mind for keeping your fabric in tip top shape.

First of all, the easiest thing you can do to keep outdoor cushions in good condition is to cover them when not in use. You can also store them away during the winter, or for times when you won’t be using them for several months at a time.

Caring for Outdoor Fabrics

Outdoor fabrics made for chairs, couches, slings, and other furniture are typically water and mildew resistant. However, washing them occasionally is still a good idea. You should refer to your manufacturer’s instructions for care, but here are some guidelines for general use.

Machine wash your fabrics on the gentle cycle.
Add bleach for white items if desired.
Dry your fabrics outdoors.
For hammocks and chair covers, stretch them over the original frame after washing to avoid shrinkage.
Store fabric indoors during the winter.

Did you know too that you can and should wash your hammock?

Acrylic Cushions

Acrylic is a common material for covering outdoor furniture. This material is forgiving and easily cleaned. Acrylic is mostly mildew resistant, but you can take these extra precautionary steps to keep it clean.

Remove the cushions from the frame before cleaning begins. Spot clean with mild soap and water. Remove cushions from frame before you begin cleaning. Use a sponge to spot clean with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water.

Before using or storing them, acrylic cushions completely to prevent mildew.

Mildew resistant cushions can still mildew if lots of moisture is present in the air. Clean mildew away using a solution made from one cup of bleach, two cups of detergent, and one gallon of water. SAFETY TIP: Use protective goggles and gloves when spraying bleach.

Scrub the cushion with a sponge or rag. Rinse off and allow to dry thoroughly
Contrary to popular belief, plastic wrap doesn’t keep moisture out of cushions. Avoid using it when you’re about to store your furniture. It keeps dust out, but it may lock in moisture instead of keeping it out.