Patio furniture can be a great addition to your backyard or patio, but if it’s not kept clean, the covers can start to look dirty and aged. To clean patio furniture covers with ease, follow these tips.
What You’ll Need
When it comes to cleaning patio furniture covers, most homeowners will likely need the following supplies:
- Rag or paper towel
- Rubbing alcohol or a cleaner specifically designed for patio furniture
- Bucket or pail
- Sandpaper (fine, medium, or coarse)
Paintbrush - Patio furniture cover(s)
Here’s a breakdown of each item:
Rag or paper towel: Used to clean the surface of the patio furniture cover. Can also be used to dry the cover after cleaning.
Rubbing alcohol or a cleaner specifically designed for patio furniture: Used to clean the inside of the patio furniture cover and the fabric. Will also remove paint and other oils from the cover. Be sure to read the instructions before using this product.
Bucket or pail: Used to hold water and liquid cleaning supplies. Can also be used to mix a cleaner before applying it to the cover.
Sandpaper (fine, medium, or coarse): Used to sand down dirt and dust on the surface of the patio furniture cover. Helps to restore its original finish.
Also useful for sanding down dirt and dust on the surface of the patio furniture cover are a paintbrush and a vacuum cleaner.
How to Clean Patio Furniture Covers
If you want to keep your patio furniture looking great, you need to clean it on a regular basis. Here are the steps on how to clean patio furniture covers:
- Get a mild cleaner and water mixture. Wet the cover of the furniture with the cleaner and water mixture. Use a soft cloth to spread the mixture over the cover. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Wipe off any residue with a dry cloth.
- Get a stronger cleaner and water mixture. Wet the cover of the furniture with the stronger cleaner and water mixture. Use a vacuum cleaner attachment to suck up any debris on the surface. Wipe off any residue with a dry cloth.
- Get a sealant and elbow grease. If your furniture is made from plastic, get a sealant and start scrubbing down the surface with an old toothbrush. If your furniture is made from wood, use an old toothbrush and sealant to coat all of the wood in areas where dirt could accumulate (like around joints). Let it sit for at least two hours before using your furniture again.
Tips for cleaning patio furniture covers
If you’re like most people, your patio furniture is a favorite spot to relax and enjoy the summer sun. But don’t forget to keep it clean! Here are some tips for cleaning your patio furniture covers:
- Wash them in the washer on delicate or hand-wash cycle. Be sure to use a mild detergent and avoid using chlorine bleach or other harsh chemicals.
- Hang them out to dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat while they’re drying, in order to preserve their finish.
- If your covers are stained, try using an enzyme cleaner like Barkeeper’s Friend to break down the stain. Be sure to test the cleaner first on a small area of the cover to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
- If all else fails, take them off and give them a good cleaning with a vacuum cleaner and upholstery cleaner. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid getting any fabric fibers on the vacuum cleaner hose or filters.
How to remove graffiti from patio furniture covers
If you’re looking to get rid of graffiti from your patio furniture covers, one easy and effective way is to use a diluted white vinegar solution. Simply pour a small amount of vinegar onto a cloth or paper towel, and apply it to the graffiti area. Wipe the area clean with the cloth or paper towel, and then let the vinegar dry. The graffiti will start to disappear after a few minutes.
How to clean outdoor furniture covers
If you have pets and enjoy using your patio furniture in the summer, you know that it needs to be covered during the winter. However, if you don’t take care of the covers, they can become dirty, ragged, and even torn. Here are five easy steps for cleaning patio furniture covers:
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove all the dirt and debris from the cover.
- If the cover is made of fabric, wring out the excess water before hanging it to dry. If the cover is made of a plastic material, just leave it to air dry.
- Apply a coat of waterproofing spray to the cover before installation. This will keep moisture and dirt at bay.
- If your patio furniture is metal or wood, use a cloth or sponge to clean it with a light dusting of polishing powder or a polish such as wood oil. Be sure to dry it completely before installing the cover again.
- If you have vinyl covers, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and dry them completely before installation.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to give your patio furniture a good clean, here are some tips on how to go about it. And foremost, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions in regards to cleaning; these will usually include specific instructions for cleaning the cover. Be sure to use a mild soap or detergent one that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals and water. Take care when drying the cover; if possible, use an air dryer.
