Upholstered outdoor cushions and rugs are usually the stars of any outdoor living area – bringing life, color, and personality to the patio. So, how do you keep them looking new longer?
“While outdoor fabrics do resist mildew, they can’t do their job if they have soil build-up,” says Laurie Simons, owner of Fiber-Seal of Charlotte. “This is a common misconception. People think outdoor fabrics are impenetrable, but they do require some care. Though the fabric may be mildew resistant, dirt and leaves are not and these can grow mildew and stain the fabric.” But don’t worry; there are ways to combat these common problems. Follow these suggestions from Laurie to ensure your outdoor cushions and rugs look their best this summer and year round:
• Protect and seal outdoor fabrics with a reliable fabric care system – like a customizable Fiber-Seal service.
• Dirt and spills should be cleaned immediately.
• At the beginning of patio season, wipe down outdoor cushions with a clean, damp rag to remove dirt and debris collected during storage.
• Vacuum outdoor furniture and rugs regularly. For rugs, flip them and vacuum the underside first, where a lot of dirt and debris can get trapped. Remember, most dirt isn’t always visible to the naked eye.
• If cushions do get wet or rained on, standing them on end helps them dry properly.
• Before putting the cushions away for storage, have them cleaned by a professional to ensure they are clean and in pristine condition for the next season.
• Make sure furniture and cushions are completely dry before covering or storing.
• Resist the recommendation to use bleach solutions. This is best left to upholstery cleaning professionals who know how to do this safely.
For more tips, or to learn about how Fiber-Seal protection can further prolong the life of your outdoor furniture, visit www.charlotte.fiberseal.com, email Laurie at laurie@fiberseal.com, or call 704-665-7260 to inquire about their peace-of-mind-service.