Machine Wash Outdoor Cushions Like A Pro With This Guide

Outdoor cushions add comfort and style to any patio or deck. However, exposure to sun, dirt, food spills, and moisture means they require regular washing to look their best. Follow this guide to professionally clean outdoor cushion covers at home using your washing machine.

Determine If Cushion Covers Are Machine Washable

Not all outdoor cushion fabrics can be machine washed. Start by checking the manufacturer's tag for care instructions:

• Canvas, polyester, olefin - Machine washable
• Sunbrella - Can machine wash on gentle cycle
• Silk, rayon, wool - Require hand wash or dry clean only
• Unsure? Test washability by cleaning a hidden section

Considerations for Specialty Fabrics

If cushion covers are made from specialty outdoor fabrics:

Prepare The Cushion Covers For Washing

Before machine washing, prep the cushion covers to lift out dirt:

• Use a soft brush to remove any loose debris
• Vacuum both sides of the fabric with an upholstery attachment
• Pre-treat any visible stains with a targeted spot cleaner
• Freshen musty odors like mildew with a baking soda scrub

Stubborn Stain Removal Methods

For challenging cushions stains, try these pre-wash spot treatments:

• Dish soap mixed with hydrogen peroxide
• White vinegar soak for 30 minutes
• Meat tenderizer paste to break down proteins
• Commercial enzymatic cleaners like OxiClean spray

Select The Right Washing Machine Settings

The cleaning power comes from proper wash settings:

• Choose the delicate or gentle/handwash cycle
• Wash covers separately from household loads
• Set water temperature to cold to avoid shrinkage
• Select a mild powder or liquid detergent for delicates

Create A Customized Cleaning Solution

Boost your detergent's cleaning ability with:

• 1-2 cups white vinegar to disinfect and deodorize
• 1/2 cup baking soda to help lift stains
• 1/2 cup oxygen bleach powder to whiten without chlorine
• Essential oils like lemon or eucalyptus for fresh scent

Wash the Outdoor Cushion Covers

Wash properly to prevent fabric damage:

• Place covers in a mesh bag and zip fully closed
• Run gentle cycle with cleaning mixture for full 30 minutes
• Avoid fabric softener which can encourage mildew
• Shake covers after washing to remove excess moisture

Extremely Soiled Cushion Cover Cleaning

Badly soiled covers may need:

• Pre-soak heavily stained sections overnight
• Wash twice using hottest water safe for fabric
• Use extra oxygen bleach and enzymatic cleaner
• Check for stains between cycles and spot treat

Dry The Cushion Covers Properly

Prevent damage by line or air drying:

• Lay flat or hang up with adequate airflow
• Reshape covers as they dry if needed
• Tumble dry low if fabric care tag recommends
• Never wring or twist covers to squeeze out moisture

Indoor Hang Drying Locations

Good spots to hang dry cushion covers include:

• Shower rods with clips for hanging laundry
• Collapsible laundry racks and hangers
• Plastic garment racks with clamps for draping over
• Banisters and stair railings

Maintain The Outdoor Cushion Covers

Keep cushion covers fresh between washes with tips like:

• Weekly vacuuming before use each season
• Immediate spot cleaning when spills happen
• Storing in rodent-proof containers over winter
• Water protection sprays for acrylic and cotton fabrics

Discourage Mold and Mildew Growth

Prevent mold/mildew with these methods:

• Allow cushion inserts and covers to dry fully before storing
• Use hair dryer to speed drying in seams/zippers if needed
• Sprinkle baking soda before folding covers away
• Store off ground on wood planks not concrete floors

Deep Clean For Stubborn Stains

If stains persist after washing, break out the big guns:

• Soak in OxiClean detergent solution for 8-12 hours
• Mix equal hydrogen peroxide and baking soda into a paste
• Spray full-strength white vinegar and let sit 1 hour
• Use small amounts of concentrated dish detergent on marks

Bleaching Fabric Safety Tips

If attempting to bleach:

• Spot test first for color change/damage
• Check if bleach can be used on fabric type
• Use non-chlorine oxygen bleach only
• Thoroughly rinse to remove all bleach residue

Outdoor cushions handles all weather conditions and plenty of use. With this complete guide, you can safely and effectively clean covers at home. By pre-treating stains, understanding fabric limits, and adjusting machine cycles for delicates, your cushion covers will come out fresh, bright, and ready to accessorize your patio again.