Outdoor furniture covers are lifesavers when it comes to protecting your investment from harsh weather. However, they can become breeding grounds for mildew if left unchecked.
These not only look unsightly, but they can also lead to a musty smell and even degrade the fabric over time. Luckily, cleaning and removing mildew from your outdoor furniture covers is easier than you might think, and with regular care, you can keep them looking and smelling fresh.
In this guide, we’ll walk through different methods on how to clean mildew from outdoor furniture covers, along with some essential tips to prevent mildew in the future. Read on to find out!
Understanding Mildew
Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in damp environments, making outdoor furniture covers an easy target, especially in humid or rainy climates. Mildew appears as white or grayish patches on the surface, often accompanied by a musty odor.
Common Causes of Mildew Buildup on Outdoor Covers:
- Excess moisture trapped under the covers
- Lack of proper ventilation
- Not allowing covers to dry before storing them
Spotting mildew early can save you time and effort. And if you notice discoloration or a strong, musty smell, it’s time to start cleaning.
Gather Necessary Supplies
Before jumping into the cleaning process, it’s important to gather all the right supplies. Thankfully, you probably already have many of these items at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Soft-bristled brush: This will help you scrub away mildew without damaging the fabric.
- Mild detergent or soap: A non-abrasive soap that won’t harm your cover’s material.
- White vinegar or baking soda: Natural cleaning agents that are highly effective at removing mildew.
- Commercial mildew remover (if needed): Useful for tougher stains.
- Bucket of warm water: For mixing cleaning solutions.
- Sponge or microfiber cloth: Ideal for scrubbing gently.
- Hose: To rinse the covers after cleaning.
- Protective gloves: Optional but helpful, especially if using commercial cleaners.
- Tarp or outdoor mat: To place the covers on while cleaning.
Using the right tools ensures you won’t accidentally damage the covers, and it makes the cleaning process a whole lot easier!
Prepare the Covers for Cleaning
Once your supplies are ready, it’s time to prepare the covers for cleaning. Here’s how to get started:
- Remove the covers from the furniture: This gives you access to every part of the cover, making the cleaning process more thorough.
- Shake off loose debris: Dirt, dust, and leaves can all collect on the cover’s surface. Give it a good shake to remove as much loose debris as possible.
- Spot test the cleaning solution: Before applying any cleaning product (whether it’s vinegar, detergent, or a commercial cleaner), test it on a small, hidden part of the fabric to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.
- Place the covers on a flat surface: Lay the covers out on a driveway, patio, or tarp to avoid getting them even dirtier during the cleaning process.
Quick and Efficient Ways to Clean Mildew from Outdoor Furniture Covers
There are several effective ways to remove mildew from outdoor furniture covers, and you can choose the method that works best for you depending on what you have on hand and how stubborn the mildew is.
Here are the top 3 methods:
Method 1: Using Vinegar Solution
White vinegar is a natural, eco-friendly mildew remover, making it an excellent first option for cleaning your covers.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the vinegar solution generously on the areas affected by mildew.
- Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the vinegar time to break down the mildew.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the affected areas, working in gentle circular motions.
- Rinse the cover thoroughly with a hose to remove any remaining vinegar and mildew.
- Finally, allow the cover to air dry completely before using or storing it.
Method 2: Using Baking Soda Paste
If you prefer an alternative to vinegar or want to tackle particularly stubborn stains, baking soda is another great option. It acts as a mild abrasive and deodorizer, perfect for deep cleaning.
- In a small container, mix baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste directly to the mildew-stained areas of the cover.
- Let the paste sit for about 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub the area with a soft brush to lift the mildew.
- Rinse with a hose, making sure all traces of the baking soda are gone.
- Leave the cover out to air dry in the sun.
Method 3: Using a Commercial Mildew Cleaner
For more severe mildew growth where the natural methods aren’t cutting it, you can opt for a commercial mildew cleaner.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as these solutions can sometimes be more potent than natural alternatives.
- Ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area, and wear protective gloves if needed.
- Apply the cleaner to the affected areas and let it sit for the recommended time.
- Scrub the mildew with a brush or sponge and then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Let the covers dry completely before putting them back on your furniture.
Rinse and Dry the Covers Properly
After you’ve scrubbed away the mildew, it’s important to thoroughly rinse off any cleaning solution. Whether you use vinegar, baking soda, or a commercial product, rinsing ensures that no residue is left behind, which could attract more dirt or damage the material over time.
Once rinsed, focus on properly drying the covers:
- Hang them up in direct sunlight if possible. Sunlight not only dries the fabric quickly but also helps to kill any remaining mildew spores.
- If hanging isn’t an option, lay the covers flat on a clean surface to dry.
- Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage certain materials or cause shrinkage.
A Gentle Reminder: It’s crucial to make sure the covers are completely dry before placing them back on your furniture or storing them. Moisture left behind is a surefire way to encourage mildew to return.
Preventing Mildew Buildup in the Future
Now that your furniture covers are mildew-free, it’s worth taking a few extra steps to prevent mildew from making a comeback:
- Clean covers regularly: Even if mildew isn’t visible, regular cleaning helps to remove dirt and moisture that can lead to mildew growth.
- Store covers in a dry place: When not in use, store your covers in a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent moisture buildup.
- Ensure covers are dry before storing: Moisture is the number one culprit in mildew formation, so always make sure your covers are completely dry before storing them.
- Consider using mildew-resistant sprays: There are sprays designed to create a mildew-resistant barrier on fabrics, helping to protect them over time.
- Allow air circulation: Avoid covering your furniture when it’s unnecessary. Leaving the furniture exposed to fresh air can help prevent mildew from forming on the covers.
Wrapping Up
Cleaning mildew from outdoor furniture covers is a simple task that can save you from dealing with more significant problems down the line.
Whether you prefer to use natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda or opt for a commercial cleaner, removing mildew early and regularly can save you from a lot of hassles. Plus, they work like a charm when it comes to maintaining the appearance and longevity of your covers.
Read More: Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter to Protect Your Investment
