Outdoor Fabric Care
Treat your fabrics right and they’ll last years longer!
Even the toughest fabrics will break down eventually, due to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, outdoor fabrics that are made specially for cushions, awnings, canopies, and umbrellas for pool and patio use are very durable.
The most obvious form of UV damage is fading. When you notice the material has faded, the damage has already begun, and fiber deterioration is on the way. Here are a few tips to not only keep your cushions looking fresh and bright, but also to make them last many years longer than they would otherwise.
Clean Your Fabrics Regularly
The absolute BEST thing you can do to extend the life of your cushions and pads is clean them. Did you know that mold and mildew CANNOT grow on synthetic fibers? It’s not the cushions that are going moldy – it’s the dirt, pollen and dead skin cells caught in the fibers that the mold spores live and grow on. Keep them clean and you’ll never have this problem! We sell a special patio furniture cleaner that can be used on fabrics, vinyl strapping, chair frames, and even grills!
Protect Fabrics from Fading and Ultra Violet Light Damage
UV light from the sun’s rays not only fades fabric materials, but eventually destroys them. The fibers literally break down and fall apart over time. Some fabrics will last longer than others, but eventually the sun wins! We have a product that is formulated specifically to protect fabrics from UV damage, fading and also to make them stain and soil resistant. Combining our fabric waterproofing product (tip 3 below) and this fabric protectant will provide a double layer of protection! Note that this product should not be used on vinyl fabrics.
Make Your Fabrics Waterproof
Waterproofing fabrics used for outdoor cushions and pads can help to prolong the life of the stuffing inside. It is not usually a necessary step, but will add extra protection.We have a product specially formulated to waterproof outdoor fabrics. It can be used on awnings, tents, golf bags, umbrellas, or any other outdoor fabric that needs to be waterproof – even horse blankets! Combining our fabric protection product (tip 2 above) and the waterproofing product will provide a double layer of protection! Note that this product should not be used on vinyl fabrics.
Fabric Protectant Fabric Waterproofer
We hope this page on Outdoor Fabric Care was helpful!