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How To Clean Outdoor Furniture Covers
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Your outdoor furniture covers work hard to protect your patio pieces from the elements. But over time, exposure to dirt, pollen, and weather can wear them down and affect their performance. Proper cleaning and care not only keep your covers looking fresh but also maintain their water and dirt repellency so they continue to protect your investment year after year.
Follow these steps to clean and care for your outdoor furniture covers.
1. Shake Off Debris
Start by removing the cover from the furniture. Give it a good shake to remove leaves, dirt or pollen.
Why this step matters: Loose debris can trap moisture against the fabric which may lead to mildew or staining. Shaking your covers first ensures a more effective cleaning process.
2. Rinse with a Garden Hose
Lay the cover flat on a clean surface such as a patio or driveway and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. Flip the cover to rinse the other side as well.
Tip: Avoid high-pressure nozzles as they can damage seams or coatings on covers. A gentle rinse removes most surface dirt and prepares the cover for washing.
3. Gently Wash with Soap or Fabric Cleaner
Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Use a sponge or soft bristle brush to scrub your cover, paying special attention to areas with stains, mildew or pollen buildup.
For tougher stains, Coverstore recommends Golden Care Fabric Cleaner which lifts dirt while refreshing furniture covers.
Pro tip: Let the soap or cleaner sit for a few minutes on stubborn spots before scrubbing. Always rinse thoroughly to remove all residue. Repeat this process for persistent stains.
4. Treat and Protect Your Cover
After cleaning, protect your cover with Golden Care Fabric Nanoprotector. This spray creates an invisible barrier that repels water, dirt and grime, helping your covers last longer.
Apply to covers twice a year for optimal results.
Using a protective spray also preserves the appearance and performance of your covers, keeping them looking like new season after season.
5. Dry Completely Before Use
Air drying is essential. For smaller covers such as table round covers or grill patio covers, drape them over a railing or fence. Larger covers should be laid flat on clean towels in sunlight.
Ensure your cover is completely dry before putting it back on furniture or placing in your cover storage bag. This prevents mold and mildew growth.
Important: Do not machine wash or dry your covers. Heat and agitation can damage the protective coating and the fabric itself.
How Often Should You Clean Outdoor Covers
We recommend cleaning covers at least once or twice a year. If your covers are exposed to heavy pollen, salt air or tree sap, you may need to clean them more frequently.
Regular cleaning helps maintain your covers’ water and dirt repellency. This is especially important for any cover left outside for extended periods.
Benefits of Properly Maintaining Your Covers
- Longevity: Regular cleaning and protection extend the life of your outdoor furniture covers
- Appearance: Keeps covers looking their best by preventing dirt, mold, mildew, and odor buildup
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your furniture and grill are protected means less maintenance and stress throughout the year
FAQ: Common Questions About Outdoor Furniture Covers
Q: Can I use any cleaner on my covers?
A: No, stick to mild dish soap or Golden Care Fabric Cleaner. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric or protective coating
Q: How do I prevent mold during rainy seasons?
A: Always let covers dry completely before placing them back on furniture. Using Golden Care Fabric Nanoprotector helps repel water and reduces moisture buildup
Q: Are vinyl covers better than fabric covers?
A: Both materials offer great protection depending on your needs. Vinyl covers provide strong water resistance and hold up well in heavy rain or snow. Fabric covers are breathable and lightweight, helping prevent mold and mildew while still offering reliable protection in all seasons.
Keep Your Outdoor Space Protected
Taking care of your covers is just as important as maintaining your furniture. With routine cleaning and protective treatment, your outdoor furniture covers will keep your patio looking beautiful and functional for years
Coverstore has a wide selection of standard and custom covers to fit every outdoor furniture piece. Protect your investment today and enjoy a worry-free outdoor space
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