How to Clean Patio Umbrella: From Light Dirt to Mildew
A patio umbrella is the perfect shelter for outdoor relaxation and gatherings during sunny days. But even the most durable patio umbrellas can still get eroded by natural elements like dirt and mold after a long time of use. Don’t worry, this comprehensive guide will tell you how to clean patio umbrellas effectively!
Preparation for Cleaning Patio Umbrella
Before we kick off the cleanup, making a full preparation of tools and supplies can ensure a quick and efficient procedure. Choose a sunny and breezy day, and gather up the items you need:
Basic Tools: A tarp, a bucket, a soft-bristle brush or a sponge, some microfiber cloths, and a garden hose with a spray nozzle.
Protective Gear: Wear old clothes and gloves since the splatter of dirty water and chemical cleaners may harm your clothes.
Patio Umbrella Cleaner: A bottle of dish soap and a cup of mild detergent. Dish soap is for rough cleaning while the detergent is prepared to deal with mildew and stubborn dirt. Be sure to avoid harsh cleaners with abrasive elements, as they may damage the fabric.
Clean Water: Use cold or warm clean water. Warm water can clean dirt more effectively while avoiding breaking down the polyester fabrics. However, be aware that the temperature of the water should be between 85°F and 105°F (30°C to 40°C). Hot water may damage the surface and strength of the canopy.
After you’ve prepared all the needed tools, it’s also important to choose a proper spot for cleaning. Make sure the spot has a good drainage system and there is no other patio furniture nearby.
Now, let’s get to work!
(Image: Freepik)
How to Clean Patio Umbrella
General Cleaning for Light Dirt and Marks
1. Check if the canopy is removable
For a removable canopy:
You can remove the fabric from the frame and lay it out flat on a tarp for easier and more thorough cleaning.
For the canopy on the frame:
You can open the canopy partially and stand beside it to clean it with a hose. If the top part is too high for you to reach, you can grab a ladder to help.
2. Roughly Brushing
Slightly brush off any loose dirt, leaves, or cobwebs from the umbrella.
3. Wet the Canopy
Use your garden hose to periodically and gently dampen the canopy with clean water.
4. Make a Solution
Get a bucket of warm water and mix up a solution with mild soap. The ratio should be 1 tablespoon of mild soap per gallon of water.
5. Deep Cleaning
Dampen your soft-bristle brush with the solution and scrub the surface of your patio umbrella in a circular motion.
6. Let it Soak
After you’ve cleaned all the areas on your umbrella, wait for 5-10 minutes. The solution will soak into the fabric and ensure a deeper clean.
7. Rinse the Umbrella
Turn on the spray nozzle of your garden hose and rinse the umbrella thoroughly.
8. Air Dry
After the cleanup, blot excess water with a microfiber cloth and place the umbrella in an airy area that is out of direct sunlight. Don’t use a dryer, just let it dry naturally.
Spot Cleaning for Stubborn Stains
The procedure for spot cleaning is the same as the general cleaning steps, but you need a special solution to deal with the stubborn stains.
1. Check the material of your umbrella’s fabric and select the tailored-made detergent.
2. Read the instructions on the detergent, mix a solution with clean water or directly apply a light mist with a spray bottle.
3. Use a soft-bristle brush to lightly work the solution into the stain and scrub in a circular motion. Repeat this step until the stain has been removed.
4. Rinse the umbrella and air dry.
How to Clean Outdoor Umbrella Mold
Mold and mildew can thrive in a damp and shaded environment, while a drippy outdoor umbrella after rain often provides a perfect area for them. It’s important to remove them as they may cause allergies or other health issues for some people.
1. Identify the mold and mildew: Mold and mildew often have a fuzzy appearance with a gray or white color, sometimes delivering a musty or earthy odor.
2. Cleanup: Follow the steps of spot cleaning to remove stubborn mold and mildew.
3. Canopy Care: After you’ve completed the cleanup, spray water repellent on the surface of the canopy to enhance your umbrella’s resistance to moisture and mildew.
How to Maintain a Patio Umbrella
Proper maintenance and care are essential for making your patio umbrella last longer. Here are a few tips to keep it in good shape:
1. Clean the Canopy Weekly: Regular cleaning is the best way to avoid potential issues and extend your umbrella’s lifespan. Besides, you may also need to do an airing after rain showers.
2. Use a Protective Cover: Putting a waterproof cover on your outdoor umbrella can keep it protected during different weather conditions.
3. Keep It Close When Not in Use: If you want to leave your umbrella outdoors for a long time, remember to close it when it’s not in use. High winds can damage the frame, while strong UV light can accelerate the wear of the canopy.
4. Store It During Cold Days: When the outside temperature drops after summer, you can store the patio umbrella in the garage or storage shed. Don’t forget to clean and dry it thoroughly before hiding it.
5. Annual Maintenance: A yearly treatment with a fabric waterproofing spray can replenish your umbrella’s capacity to block water and UV light. You can also apply anti-rust oil to the pole, frames, and crank system to enhance overall durability.
Conclusion
Through this step-by-step article, we believe you’ve understood how to clean patio umbrellas. By cleaning your patio umbrella regularly, you’ll keep the umbrella looking new and enjoy more pleasant outdoor time.
