Sunbrella and Olefin fabrics are widely used in outdoor furniture upholstery due to their exceptional durability, resistance to fading, and easy maintenance. However, to keep these fabrics looking their best and ensure their longevity, it's important to follow proper cleaning techniques. In this blog, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to clean Sunbrella and Olefin fabric, helping you maintain the beauty and functionality of your outdoor furniture for years to come.
Regular Maintenance Keeping your Sunbrella and Olefin fabrics looking great starts with regular upkeep. Simply brush off loose dirt or use a vacuum cleaner to clear away debris. It’s an easy way to stop dirt from settling into the fabric.
Spot Cleaning For small spills or stains, a quick spot clean usually does the trick! Just blot the area gently with a clean cloth or sponge, using a mix of mild soap and lukewarm water. Be gentle—no vigorous scrubbing, as that could spread the stain. Rinse with clean water, then let it air dry naturally.
Deep Cleaning When stains get stubborn, or the fabric needs a good refresh, deep cleaning is the way to go. Mix one tablespoon of liquid dish soap with a quart of lukewarm water to create a cleaning solution. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently work it into the fabric, then rinse away any soap residue with clean water. Let the fabric air dry completely before using it again.
Getting Rid of Mildew If mildew shows up, don’t worry! Make a solution with one cup of bleach, a quarter cup of mild soap, and a gallon of water. Apply it to the affected area and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and ensure everything dries completely before use or storage.
Protective Covers and Everyday Care To make life easier, think about using protective covers for your outdoor furniture when it’s not in use. It’ll help shield the fabric from harsh weather and reduce stains. Regular care, like brushing off debris and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, will also keep your fabrics looking fresh. And don’t forget, we have winter covers available for all our sets and individual pieces—they're perfect for giving your garden furniture extra protection during those cold, damp months.
Taking proper care of your Sunbrella and Olefin fabrics is the key to keeping them in top shape. With a little effort, you can easily remove stains, prevent mildew, and make your outdoor furniture last longer. For tough stains, we recommend cleaning Sunbrella fabric with a 50/50 mixture of warm water and bleach, using a stiff brush to tackle the toughest of stains, more guidance can be found at the link here. For lighter stains, a soft brush should work just fine. Don’t forget to let the fabric dry completely before using or storing it. With the right care, your Sunbrella and Olefin fabrics will remain beautiful and comfortable, ready to elevate your outdoor space for many seasons to come.
We exclusively use Sunbrella or Olefin for our outdoor cushions. Our Moderno, Minimo & Milano collections feature weatherproof Sunbrella, whereas our Verona & Tosca sets use Olefin. Both offer a combination of comfort and durability (Sunbrella slightly more so). Be sure to browse and find the set that brings your outdoor oasis to life.
