Outdoor Sunbrella® fabrics can be left outside all season. It is recommended to cover cushions with a towel if you have on suntan lotion. The fabric, and sun lotions, when hit by the sun’s ultra-violet rays cause a chemical reaction that may stain the fabric.

Treated fabrics will resist mildew as well when exposed to moisture. It is important to turn the cushions on their ends when exposed to a heavy rain and water soaking. Quality cushions are designed to drain well and dry quickly however once water penetrates the fabric it may be difficult to release unless the cushion is put upright with the zipper to the bottom.

Certainly protecting any cushion from rain and sun when possible will prolong its life. One of the best ways to keep Sunbrella® fabrics looking good and to delay deep or vigorous cleaning is to properly maintain the fabrics. This can be accomplished by simply brushing off dirt before it becomes embedded in the fabrics, wiping up spills as soon as they occur or spot cleaning soon after stains occur. Sunbrella® fabrics have a special finish that enhances water repellency. The finish is designed to last for several years of normal use, but may be refreshed after a thorough cleaning or extended use. Heavy stains and mildew may require multiple cleanings as, mildew may grow on dirt and can cause the stains to be challenging to remove.

General or light cleaning of Sunbrella Fabric

1. Brush off any loose dirt.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution of 2 ounces (1/4 cup) mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water (less than 100°F/38°C).
3. Use a sponge or a soft bristle brush to clean.
4. Allow cleaning solution to soak into fabric.
5. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
6. Allow fabric to air dry.

Spot Cleaning of Sunbrella Fabric

1. Apply a light mist of mild soap and water using a spray bottle.

2. Work the solution into the stain by lightly scrubbing the area with a sponge or very soft bristle brush.

3. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

4. Blot excess moisture with a clean, soft towel or sponge.

5. Air dry, Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all soap residue is removed.

Machine Washing of Sunbrella Fabric

1. Machine wash in cold water (less than 100°F/38°C).
2. Depending on wash load size, use normal amounts of mild laundry soap and add 8 ounces (1 cup) of bleach.
3. Allow fabric to air dry

To clean mildew, or other stubborn stains:

1. Prepare a solution of 8 ounces (1 cup) of bleach and 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of mild soap per gallon of clean water.

2. Spray on entire area and allow to soak into the fabric for 15 minutes.

3. Remove stain with a sponge, clean towel or very soft bristle brush.

4. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

5. Allow fabric to air dry.

6. If stain and/or mildew are severe, bleach quantities may be increased.

Professional Cleaners

DO NOT dry clean Sunbrella® fabrics. In evaluating the services of a professional firm, you should inquire about the firm’s experience in working with Sunbrella® fabrics and knowledge of cleaning and re-treatment requirements. Protect the area around your Sunbrella® fabric. Always rinse Sunbrella® fabric thoroughly to completely remove bleach.

Sunbrella® fabric air dries very quickly. Do not put in dryer. If fabric has some wrinkling, use of an iron can be necessary, but only on the synthetic setting. As some irons exceed the recommended 100°F/38°C temperature on the synthetic setting, test a small inconspicuous area before ironing entire piece. DO NOT use a steamer or iron set to steam setting.

*Synthetic fabric heat settings normally do not exceed 150°F/66°C