Weekly: brush, vacuum, and flip
Once a week, remove dirt by lightly brushing or vacuuming the cushion and any toss pillows. That keeps grit from grinding into the fibers. Turn or reverse the cushions so they wear evenly and so you catch a spill before it sets. If wrinkles bother you, iron on a synthetic setting only — no steam and no hot iron.
Spills: blot, then mild soap
Blot — do not rub. Lightly brush or vacuum first. Mix ¼ cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water in a spray bottle, mist the fabric, and work with a sponge or soft-bristle brush. For a set stain, saturate the spot for 15 minutes, then agitate gently. Rinse thoroughly so no soap film remains, and air dry completely before you sit or stack the cushions.
Sunbrella and stubborn mildew
Solution-dyed acrylic (Sunbrella and similar) can take a stronger mix: you may add up to 1 cup of bleach to the same soap-and-water solution. Protect nearby wood, metal, and landscaping first. Rinse until the runoff is clear and dry fully in open air. Do not machine-wash sewn cushions or toss pillows — agitation and heat wreck welting, zippers, and fill.
Indoor fabrics and sun through glass
Window glass magnifies UV in every season. Keep indoor performance fabrics out of a harsh south window when you can, and do not park cushions against heating or cooling vents — dry heat and dust age the face of the cloth. Vacuum indoor pieces often; dust is what becomes a stain later.
End-of-season storage
Store clean, fully dry cushions in a dry room or shed. Stand them on edge so air can move. Avoid sealed plastic bags that trap leftover moisture and invite mildew. If you need a cover, use a breathable bag. For fabric-specific notes on a pattern you ordered, check that fabric’s page in the library or call (866) 554-0804.
Frequently asked questions
Can I machine-wash cushion covers or throw pillows?
No. We do not recommend machine washing sewn cushions or decorative pillows. Spot clean with mild soap and lukewarm water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Removable covers make deeper spot cleaning easier; call us if you are unsure about your construction.
What soap mix do you use?
¼ cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water. For Sunbrella mildew, you may add up to 1 cup of bleach to that mix — then rinse until the water runs clear.
How often should I clean outdoor cushions?
There is no fixed timetable. Brush or vacuum weekly, treat spills when they happen, and do a fuller wash when the local pollen, salt, or humidity says so.
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