How to Clean Outdoor Cushions to Keep Them Looking Fresh All Season Long

Relaxing on your patio furniture with a cold drink is the perfect way to pass a sunny afternoon. But when those comfy cushions start to look a little grimy, you can’t rely on a good rain shower to rinse them clean. To keep your patio furniture fresh and ready for use, learning how to clean outdoor cushions is essential.

With the correct method and a few basic supplies, you can restore your cushions and enjoy your outdoor space in comfort and style. We consulted a fabric care scientist for expert-approved tips on this warm-weather to-do.

Getting Started

To clean outdoor cushions, P&G fabric care scientist Kim Romine recommends starting with a label check. "Always start by checking the care labels for specific cleaning instructions," she says. Some cushion covers may be removable and machine washable, while others need a more delicate approach.

The method below is generally gentle enough to care for most outdoor cushions, but heed the specific care instructions of your individual pieces.

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How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

With Romine's easy method and a bit of time, your patio will be guest-ready and grime-free. Follow the steps below to refresh your outdoor cushions in no time.

Materials Needed:

• Soft scrub brush or cleaning cloth
• Bucket
• Hose
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Water

Instructions:

1. Shake off dirt and debris: Begin by getting rid of surface mess. “Shake or lightly brush off any loose dirt or debris from the cushions,” Romine says. This step prevents you from spreading stains and scrubbing dirt deeper into the fabric during cleaning.
2. Mix your cleaning solution: According to Romine, a simple bucket of soapy water is a powerful cleaning tool. Mix liquid laundry detergent (Romine recommends Tide Original) and water in a bucket. "It'll attack tough body soils and can help eliminate any dirt or contaminants," says Romine. "Its quick-collapsing suds also clean faster and rinse out quicker." For especially grimy spots, "you can spot treat with a small amount of detergent directly on the cushion," adds Romine.
3. Scrub gently, but thoroughly: Once your solution is ready, grab a soft brush or cleaning cloth and start scrubbing. “Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the cushions with the cleaning solution, focusing on stained areas,” Romine instructs. Be gentle since scrubbing too hard can wear out the fabric—but don’t be afraid to give extra attention to spots that need a little elbow grease.
4. Rinse well: Like in carpets or clothing, leftover detergent can attract more dirt or cause discoloration over time, so rinse thoroughly. “Rinse the cushions with a hose to remove all cleaning products and dirt,” Romine says. “Ensure no residue remains.” 
5. Allow to dry: Moisture can lead to mildew, so drying your cushions properly is key. “Allow the cushions to air dry completely before placing them back on furniture,” Romine says. “If possible, stand them on their side to allow water to drain out effectively.” Drying in the sun can also help speed up the process, but don’t forget to bring your cushions inside. Prolonged direct sunlight can fade and weaken fabrics. 

Regular upkeep can help keep your cushions looking their best all season long. For best results, store your cushions indoors between uses, wash monthly, and make sure to protect outdoor cushions from pets, prolonged direct sunlight, and poor weather.