How to Clean Outdoor Patio Umbrellas

Sitting outside in the summer is pure bliss, but your outdoor furniture can take a real beating from the elements, including the sun and chemicals in the air. It’s important to routinely clean outdoor patio umbrellas at least once a month to help extend its lifespan, especially if it’s close to trees and shrubs.

Keep your outdoor patio furniture and umbrella pristine all season long with our outdoor umbrella/furniture cleaning care guide below.

What Affects the Appearance of Your Outdoor Furniture and Umbrella

Your patio umbrella and furniture can become damaged by a variety of outdoor factors, including:

• Damage from the sun
• Mildew or mold
• Weather
• Animals
• Improper storage

Any one of these things can severely damage your outdoor furniture, which is why it’s important to keep a close eye on and clean them as thoroughly as possible.

Sun damage can be especially challenging to treat, depending on the surface, but with proper care and storage, and a bit of fabric or furniture paint, you can limit further damage and return your furniture pieces close to their original finish.

Aside from sun damage, one of the other main culprits, mildew, can be removed with only a few simple household items.

How to Remove Mildew Stains from Outdoor Umbrellas

Cleaning mildew off of your umbrella and patio furniture is a fairly easy process that doesn’t take up too much time, but can really help to extend the appearance and use of your patio umbrella.

Start by opening the umbrella up all the way. In a bucket or container, combine equal parts vinegar and warm water. Grab a scrub brush and dip it into the solution. Rub the brush all over the umbrella until the mildew or mold is gone. Afterwards, rinse off the umbrella, let it dry, and it’s as good as new!

More Ways to Care for Your Patio Umbrella and Furniture

Another major way to protect your patio umbrella and furniture is simply to not leave it out in the sun for long periods of time. The sun’s rays can cause severe sun damage, such as discolouration or warping. When not in use, keep your umbrella and furniture in a shed or garage or use a tarp to cover them up.

As mentioned previously, periodically clean your umbrella and furniture at least once a month if you can. This will cut down on dirt being able to build up and possibly cause rot. And when it comes to the weather, make sure to cover, secure or put away your umbrella and any furniture to make sure it doesn’t fly away and get damaged further.

If you’re looking for new patio furniture, or you’re interested in more ways to clean outdoor patio umbrellas, contact the outdoor leisure specialists at Oakville Home Leisure.