Outdoor furniture covers are essential for protecting your patio furniture from the elements, but they can quickly become dirty and stained. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your covers looking new and extend their lifespan. Follow these easy steps and tips to properly wash your outdoor furniture covers.
Step 1: Remove the Covers
Before washing your outdoor furniture covers, remove them from the furniture and shake off any loose dirt or debris. If your covers have zippers, be sure to unzip them to prevent damage to the fabric during washing.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
If your covers have any stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a mixture of water and laundry detergent. Let the pre-treatment sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.
Step 3: Choose the Right Detergent
When washing your outdoor furniture covers, choose a mild detergent that is free of bleach and fabric softeners. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and reduce its lifespan.
Step 4: Use Cold Water
Wash your outdoor furniture covers in cold water to prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric. Hot water can cause the fabric to warp and lose its shape.
Step 5: Wash on Delicate Cycle
Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle to prevent damage to the fabric. Avoid using the spin cycle, as this can cause the covers to become tangled and misshapen.
Step 6: Air Dry
Avoid using a dryer to dry your outdoor furniture covers, as the heat can damage the fabric. Instead, hang the covers outside to air dry. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting available.
Tips for Washing Outdoor Furniture Covers
Here are some additional tips to help keep your outdoor furniture covers looking new:
- Don’t wash your covers too often. Over-washing can cause the fabric to weaken and lose its water-resistant properties.
- If your covers are heavily soiled, consider using a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime before washing.
- Always read the care labels on your covers before washing to ensure you are using the appropriate cleaning method.
- Store your outdoor furniture covers in a dry, cool place when not in use to prevent mold and mildew growth.
FAQs
How often should I wash my outdoor furniture covers?
You should wash your outdoor furniture covers once every season, or as needed if they become heavily soiled. Over-washing can cause the fabric to weaken and lose its water-resistant properties.
Can I use bleach to wash my outdoor furniture covers?
No, you should avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals when washing your outdoor furniture covers. These can damage the fabric and reduce its lifespan.
Can I machine dry my outdoor furniture covers?
Avoid using a dryer to dry your outdoor furniture covers, as the heat can damage the fabric. Instead, hang the covers outside to air dry. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting available.
How do I remove mold and mildew from my outdoor furniture covers?
If your covers have mold or mildew, mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the affected areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing as usual.