Start with a vacuum and a brush, then rinse or soak depending on the stain

The fastest way to clean patio cushions is to remove loose dirt first, then rinse with a garden hose. For stubborn stains or mildew, soak the cushions in a tub of water mixed with mild detergent or a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water. Most outdoor cushion fabrics—including solution-dyed polyester, acrylic, and Sunbrella—can handle this treatment without damage. The key is knowing what your cushions are made of, because some materials need gentler handling than others.

Start every cleaning by vacuuming both sides of the cushion with an upholstery attachment or a soft brush. This removes dust, pollen, and debris that can trap moisture and cause mildew. If you see visible mold or mildew spots, brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush before you wet anything—this prevents spores from spreading into the fabric.

Key Takeaways

  • Vacuum and dry-brush cushions first to remove loose dirt and prevent mildew spores from spreading into wet fabric.
  • Rinse with a garden hose on low pressure, or soak in a tub with mild detergent or vinegar solution for stains.
  • Never use bleach on colored cushions or solution-dyed fabrics, as it can cause permanent discoloration.
  • Air-dry cushions completely in sunlight before storing or returning them to furniture, which takes four to eight hours depending on humidity.
  • Clean cushions once or twice a year, or more often if they sit in shade or humid climates where mildew grows quickly.

Rinse with a garden hose for light dirt and dust

For routine cleaning, a garden hose is usually enough. Set the nozzle to a low or medium spray—never use a pressure washer, which can force water into the foam core and damage the fabric. Rinse both sides of the cushion, paying extra attention to seams and piping where dirt collects. Let the water run off completely, then stand the cushion upright or lay it flat to drain.

If you notice the water running off is still dirty after the first rinse, rinse again. This is especially true for cushions that have been outside all season without cleaning. Once the rinse water runs clear, you can move to the next step or let the cushion air-dry if it looks clean.

Soak cushions in soapy water or vinegar solution for stains and mildew

For stains, mildew, or general grime, fill a bathtub, large basin, or kiddie pool with cool water and add a few squirts of mild dish soap or laundry detergent. Submerge the cushion and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. Gently agitate the water around the cushion—do not scrub hard, as this can damage the fabric or push dirt deeper into the weave.

For mildew or mold spots, use a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water instead of soap. Vinegar is a natural mildew killer and will not bleach most outdoor fabrics. Soak for 30 minutes, then gently scrub any remaining spots with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until the vinegar smell is gone.

Never use bleach on colored cushions or on solution-dyed polyester fabrics like Sunbrella, even diluted. Bleach can cause permanent yellowing or discoloration. If you have white cushions and want to use bleach, dilute it heavily—one part bleach to ten parts water—and test a hidden corner first.

Scrub stubborn stains with a soft brush and mild soap

After soaking, stubborn stains may still be visible. Use a soft-bristled brush—a soft toothbrush or upholstery brush works well—and gently scrub the stain in a circular motion. Do not use a stiff brush or scrub pad, as these can fray or damage the fabric. If the stain is still there after gentle scrubbing, it may be permanent or require a specialized stain remover made for outdoor fabrics.

For grease stains, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the damp spot, let it sit for 10 minutes, then brush it away and rinse. For rust stains, a paste of cream of tartar and lemon juice can help, though you should test this on a hidden area first. Always rinse thoroughly after any treatment to remove all residue.

Rinse completely and wring out excess water

After soaking or scrubbing, rinse the cushion thoroughly with clean water until no soap, vinegar, or baking soda remains. You can use a garden hose on low pressure or dunk the cushion in a tub of clean water several times. Excess soap or vinegar left in the fabric can attract dirt and cause discoloration as it dries.

Once rinsed, gently wring out as much water as you can by hand. Do not twist or wring hard—this can damage the foam core or seams. If the cushion is very heavy with water, you can carefully press it against the side of the tub or basin to squeeze out water, or lay it on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb moisture.

Air-dry cushions completely in sunlight before use

Lay the cushion flat or stand it upright in direct sunlight to dry. Sunlight helps kill any remaining mildew spores and speeds drying. In dry climates or warm weather, cushions usually dry in four to six hours. In humid climates or cooler weather, drying can take eight to twelve hours or longer. Do not store or use the cushion until it is completely dry—damp cushions will develop mildew quickly.

If you have limited outdoor space, you can dry cushions indoors near a window or in front of a fan, though this takes longer. Avoid drying them in a dryer or near direct heat sources like a heater or radiator, as high heat can damage the foam and fabric.

How often to clean and store cushions for the season

Clean cushions once or twice a year—typically in spring before heavy use and in fall before storage. If your patio sits in shade or in a humid climate, clean more often, as mildew can develop quickly. Cushions that sit in full sun and dry climates may need less frequent cleaning.

Before storing cushions for winter or an extended period, make sure they are completely dry. Store them in a cool, dry place—a garage, shed, or storage bin works well. Do not store damp cushions or cover them with plastic while damp, as this traps moisture and causes mildew. If you store them in a bin, leave the lid slightly ajar or drill small holes to allow air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pressure washer on patio cushions?

No. Pressure washers force water deep into the foam core and can damage the internal structure, cause mildew growth inside the cushion, and tear the fabric. Stick to a garden hose on low or medium pressure, or hand-wash with a bucket and brush.

What should I do if my cushions smell like mildew after drying?

The smell usually means mildew is still present inside the foam. Soak the cushion again in a vinegar solution, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely in direct sunlight for a full day. If the smell persists, the mildew may be too deep to remove, and the cushion may need to be replaced.

Is it safe to use bleach on white outdoor cushions?

Diluted bleach can work on white cushions, but test it on a hidden corner first. Mix one part bleach to ten parts water, explore it to the stain, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Never use full-strength bleach, as it can weaken the fabric and cause yellowing over time.

How do I remove bird droppings or tree sap from cushions?

Let dried droppings or sap dry completely, then gently scrape away what you can with a plastic scraper or old credit card. Soak the area in warm soapy water for 15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry. For stubborn residue, repeat the soak and scrub.

Can I wash cushions in a washing machine?

Most outdoor cushions should not go in a washing machine, as the agitation and spin cycle can damage the foam core and seams. Hand-washing or soaking is safer. Check the manufacturer's care tag first—some cushions may have specific instructions that allow gentle machine washing on a delicate cycle.