How to clean outdoor furniture cushions

Garden furniture cushions are often an afterthought when buying garden furniture but they’re the part you sink into after a long day, they’re the part the kids will wipe their sticky hands on after an ice cream in the sun, and they’re the bit that truly makes the furniture. So, it’s only right we go into the aftercare of your cushions, whether you’re looking to purchase new garden furniture or have some and are just looking to freshen it up with a good clean.

Removable Covers

If your garden furniture cushions have a zip that allows you to remove your cushion covers then it’s good news, cleaning your cushions is as simple as a spin in the washing machine. Simply, remove the soft cushion innards and keep safe whilst you set your washing machine to a cold wash and let the cushion covers take a spin.

To dry, hang them on the line on a warm summer’s day and let them dry naturally. Never use a tumble dryer otherwise the cushion covers will shrink. Make sure they’re completely dry before you put the covers back on the cushion filling otherwise, you may end up with mildew forming on your cushions.

Non-Removable Covers

If you can’t remove your cushion covers, do not put your entire cushion in the washing machine. There are a few things you’ll need to clean this type of garden furniture cushion and a couple of methods for cleaning.

Spring Refresh Method

For a quick refresh, or for small bits of dirt and stains, use this cleaning method.

Things you’ll need:

• Soap

• Water

• Mild Detergent

• Soft Cloth

• Towels

• Soft Brush

Method:

Mix a solution of warm soapy water with the mild detergent. Use a soft brush to scrub the cushion clean. When clean, make sure all soapy residue is wiped clean with a soft wet cloth. Press the cushion between towels to squeeze out excess water and then allow them to completely dry out in the sun – this can be done by hanging on a line or leaving them on the furniture to dry. If you leave them on the furniture, be sure to turn the cushions occasionally so that all sides dry.

Tougher Stains Method

If you have particularly tough stains you are trying to remove, use this cleaning method.

• Things you’ll need:

• Washing Up Liquid

• Vanish Oxi-Action (or equivalent fabric stain remover)

• Water

• Spray Bottle

• Garden Hose

Method:

Mix a solution that is equal parts washing up liquid and Vanish Oxi-Action with a litre of warm water. Pour the liquid into a clean spray bottle and apply liberally to the cushions, with focus on particularly stained or dirty areas. Allow the solution to soak for 15-30 minutes without letting the cushion dry – respraying if necessary. Then use a garden hose to clean away the solution and dirt, ensuring no residue remains on the cushions. Allow the cushions to completely dry out in the sun – this can be done by hanging on a line or leaving them on the furniture to dry. If you leave them on the furniture, be sure to turn the cushions occasionally so that all sides dry.