Now that the days are longer and temperatures hotter, it’s time to prep your patio for summertime! Before you start planning BBQs and pool parties, it’s important to give your patio a good clean. Cleaning your patio for summer is easy when the fabric on your awnings, umbrellas, and furniture is Sunbrella.
Prepare Your Patio
Start by assessing the damages that the cold months delivered. Ensure there is no damage to the structure of the awning or umbrella and check for mold and mildew spots. Though Sunbrella is mold and mildew resistant, water, dirt, or debris can cause mold or mildew to occur. If you do spot some, it can be removed with a bleach solution. For more cleaning tips and tricks, see our detailed cleaning instructions.
Fabrics in need of a deep clean? Don’t worry! Sunbrella fabrics can even be cleaned with bleach, without losing any of its color. That’s because the color is at the core of the fabric, helping it retain its vibrant color.
How to Clean Sunbrella Shade Fabric
It’s easy to keep your Sunbrella Shade fabric clean year-round. Prevent stubborn mildew from occurring by brushing off dirt and debris with a soft bristle brush and washing off the fabric often.
If your Sunbrella awning or umbrella falls victim to a stubborn stain, prepare a solution of 1 cup of bleach and 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of clean water and allow mixture to soak into fabric for up to 15 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly and let your awning air dry.
How to Clean Sunbrella Upholstery Fabric
Both Sunbrella Shade and Upholstery fabrics can make your patio worry-free. (Pro tip: check out our cleaning guide to discover how to get rid of stubborn stains like chocolate.) To clean, simply spray with mild cleaning solution of soap and water, clean lightly with a soft brush or cloth, and rinse well.
Though Sunbrella fabrics are water-resistant, fade-resistant and resist mold and mildew, after repeated thorough cleanings (or years of use and exposure) you may choose to refresh your fabrics with an appropriate retreating agent. We recommend 303® Fabric Guard™ to keep your fabrics protected and looking their best. The unique formula provides a shield of protection over the fabric so messes never get the chance to penetrate the fabric.
The task of prepping your patio for the season doesn’t have to be daunting. Sit back and relax under your Sunbrella awning knowing it can be cleaned with ease. For more tips on cleanability, visit this guide for a full how-to for Sunbrella Shade fabrics.
