Between sun, rain, and the occasional spill, outdoor cushions can go through a lot. Over time, dirt, mildew, dust, and the dreaded Colorado pine pollen settle in, dulling colors, causing stains, and leaving behind less-than-pleasant odors. Luckily, with a little extra love and care, you can keep your cushions looking fresh and inviting. Cleaning your outdoor cushions is easier than you might think, and can be done any time of the year. Here’s what you need to know.
Before you start cleaning, take a moment to check what kind of material your outdoor cushions are made from. Many outdoor cushions are built to handle the weather, but not all fabrics respond the same to water, detergents, or scrubbing. Cushions with removable covers usually come with care tags that offer specific cleaning instructions. These tags might tell you if a cover can be machine washed, requires spot cleaning, or if it’s safe to use bleach on tougher stains.
If you’re dealing with cushions without removable covers, you’ll likely want to focus on hand-washing techniques to avoid water soaking into the padding—we’ll get into the details of this below. Getting a sense of your fabric type upfront will make your cleaning efforts both safer and more effective, keeping those cushions fresh and vibrant for longer.
Outdoor cushions are like sponges for everything outside: dust, pollen, bird droppings, and even mildew can settle in over time. If left unchecked, these elements can break down the material, dull the colors, and make sitting outdoors feel less inviting. Beyond the visual appeal, regular cleaning also keeps allergens at bay, which is especially important if anyone in your family is sensitive to pollen or dust mites. Plus, a quick refresh every so often helps prevent any musty odors that can arise when cushions are exposed to rain or humidity.
When you take the time to clean and care for your cushions, you’re investing in their durability. It helps them look great for longer and means you won’t have to replace them as often—a win for both your budget and your outdoor space.
Here’s a list of essentials to have at arm’s reach:
Before getting into any deep cleaning, start by brushing off surface-level dirt, dust, and debris. Use a soft-bristle brush to sweep off any leaves, pollen, or other outdoor grime that’s settled on the cushions. If your cushions have removable covers, now is the time to unzip and shake them out over a garbage can or the lawn.
In a bucket, mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild detergent, then use a sponge or soft brush dipped in the solution to gently scrub the cushion surfaces, working in sections from top to bottom to lift dirt and stains. Top to bottom helps ensure that you don’t have to redo any of the previous sections.
Once you’re satisfied with the scrubbing, it’s time to rinse out all that soap. Use a hose (with a gentle spray nozzle if you have one available) and rinse each cushion thoroughly to wash away any remaining soap and residue. You’ll know it’s been thoroughly rinsed when the water is coming out clean and no longer sudsy—if any soap remains, it can get sticky and attract even more impurities. Finally, avoid using high-pressure settings, as they can damage the fabric or fill.
After rinsing, grab some towels and press them against the cushion surfaces to blot out as much water as possible. This helps them to dry faster, preventing mildew from setting in. You shouldn’t wring out the cushions because it can damage the fabric and filling.
Place the cushions in a sunny spot with decent airflow where they can dry thoroughly. If possible, stand them up on their sides to help air circulate around them, which speeds up drying and keeps them fresh. Be sure they’re completely dry before putting them back on your furniture, as damp cushions are more prone to mold and mildew growth.
For those stubborn stains that just won’t budge, a little extra effort can go a long way. Try mixing a paste of baking soda and water and gently apply it to the stain, letting it sit for 10–15 minutes. This helps lift deep-set grime without damaging the fabric. Afterward, use a soft brush to scrub the area in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. If you’re dealing with mildew, a diluted solution of white vinegar and water can work wonders—just be sure to rinse it off and let the cushion dry completely in the sun.
Preventative care is an often overlooked way to keep your cushions looking their best without constantly having to clean them. First and foremost, we always recommend storing them indoors or in a weatherproof storage box when they’re not in use. This will go a long way in protecting them from harsh elements and unexpected weather. If you leave them out, covers are another great option that works to shield against dirt and UV rays, which can fade colors.
Regularly brushing off the cushions and quickly wiping up any spills also makes a big difference; the less grime has a chance to settle, the easier it’ll be to clean in the long run. These little habits can extend the life of your cushions and keep them looking their best season after season.
Even with the best care, outdoor cushions have a lifespan. Over time, sun exposure, weather, and regular use will naturally wear them down, so they will unfortunately not look like new forever. If you notice fading colors, flattened filling, or stubborn stains that won’t budge no matter what you try, it’s probably time for an upgrade. New cushions don’t just refresh the look of your patio setup; they also bring back that plush comfort and vibrant style that make outdoor spaces so inviting.
As a patio furniture store in Fort Collins, Outpost Sunsport has a range of stylish, durable outdoor cushions that can instantly upgrade your furniture. Stop by or give us a call, and let us help you find the perfect match for your outdoor space!
