Cleaning Patio Furniture Cushions: A Complete Care Guide

There’s nothing more inviting on a sunny day than a clean, cozy patio setup – especially one with colorful, cushy seating. But cleaning patio furniture cushions regularly is essential if you want your outdoor space to stay as relaxing as it looks. Between weather, spills, pets, and even mildew, those cushions can take a beating. Luckily, with just a bit of maintenance, you can keep them fresh all season long.

Whether your cushions are looking dull, stained, or musty, this guide covers everything you need to know about cleaning patio furniture cushions – from routine care to deep cleaning and protection tips.

Everyday Care for Patio Furniture Cushions

Some homeowners leave their patio cushions outside all spring, summer, and into fall. Others treat them like fragile linens and bring them inside between uses. A balanced approach is best.

• Store cushions when not in regular use – especially during heavy rains, high humidity, or extended time away.
• Use furniture covers to help shield cushions from UV rays, dirt, and sudden weather changes.
• Bring cushions indoors during the off-season, or store them in a breathable cushion storage bag or container in a dry, shaded area.

Quick daily or weekly care goes a long way in preventing buildup and making cleaning patio furniture cushions less work later.

Pet Visitors and Unexpected Messes

Pets – your own or neighborhood wanderers – may find your outdoor cushions irresistible. If you notice paw prints, fur, or other signs of furry visitors:

• Wipe down the affected area with mild soap and water.
• Try using a natural citrus-based spray as a gentle deterrent. Most animals dislike citrus scents.
• Consider removing cushions when you’re not outside for extended periods.

Being proactive will reduce the frequency of deep cleaning.

Deep Cleaning Patio Furniture Cushions

Most patio cushions are made from water- and stain-resistant fabric, making them relatively low maintenance. Still, occasional deep cleaning is essential – especially after storms, mildew, or food spills.

What You’ll Need:

• A bucket of warm water
• 1/4 cup dish detergent
• (Optional) 1/4 cup Borax – helps remove mildew and boost cleaning power
• A soft- to medium-bristle scrub brush
• A garden hose (for rinsing, if needed)

Cleaning Instructions:

1. Mix the detergent (and Borax, if using) into warm water until dissolved.
2. Use the scrub brush to gently scrub the cushion’s surface, focusing on stains and any areas with visible mildew.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water (a hose is fine – just don’t use high pressure).
4. Squeeze out excess water by pressing (not wringing) the cushions.
5. Stand cushions on their edge or lean them upright in the sun to dry completely. Air circulation is key – never put damp cushions back on the furniture, as this can trap moisture and lead to mildew.

For especially stubborn mildew, you can use a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water as a pretreatment before scrubbing.

Quick Spill Cleanup

For minor messes and fresh spills:

• Blot the area with a clean cloth.
• Mix a little dish soap with warm water and gently dab the stain.
• Rinse with clean water and let dry.

Acting fast is one of the best ways to keep cleaning patio furniture cushions simple and prevent permanent discoloration.

Preventing Mold, Mildew, and Stains

Even though most outdoor cushions are treated with a protective coating, extra steps can make a big difference:

• Avoid letting cushions stay soaked. Remove them after rain or if they get saturated.
• Let them dry fully before storing, especially at the folds and seams.
• Reapply a fabric protector spray (such as Scotchgard) once or twice a season after cleaning and drying thoroughly.
• Rotate and flip cushions regularly to even out sun exposure and prevent wear.

Proper drying is crucial – mold tends to grow in the creases and underside of cushions where airflow is minimal.

Seasonal Storage and Long-Term Tips

To make sure your cushions last through multiple seasons:

• Clean and dry cushions before end-of-season storage.
• Store in a dry, cool place in breathable fabric bags or bins – never in airtight plastic containers, which trap moisture.
• Inspect regularly throughout the season for signs of wear, mildew, or fading.

Cleaning Patio Furniture Cushions

A little maintenance goes a long way. With proper care and routine cleaning, your cushions can stay vibrant, clean, and comfortable for years. Whether you’re lounging with a book, entertaining guests, or soaking up the sun, knowing how to stay on top of cleaning patio furniture cushions means your outdoor retreat stays fresh and inviting all season long.

Furniture Cleaning