Caring for your Outdoor Fabrics

Perhaps more so in Canada than other areas of the world, we cherish the summer months and the opportunity to spend some quality time outdoors, even if we’re just lounging around home. Our outdoor rooms may not be as elaborate as what you’d find in more temperate areas, but we definitely move seasonal furnishings outdoors and into the fresh air.

Of course, exposing furnishings, even those designed for outdoors, to the elements of rain and sun take a toll on the fabrics which help to personalize our spaces and make them unique to us. Is there a way to keep outdoor cushions and patios from looking ragged after only a few months of exposure?

To begin, ensure you’re buying materials that are designed for the outdoors. Sunbrella, Kravet Soleil, and Waverly Sun N Shade, for example, are all designed to resist fading, moisture, and mildew. Conveniently, many outdoor textiles are also stain-resistant. And unlike even a few years ago, outdoor fabrics now come in a broad range of colours and styles to suit every decor need.\

One simple way to maintain your outdoor fabrics is to keep them clean. Wipe up spills or dirt as soon as you can, using mild soap and warm water with a sponge or soft bristle brush. Be sure to wash away any soapy residue and then leave the fabric to dry in the sun.

For more stubborn, oil-based stains, like salad dressing or suntan lotion, pour baby powder or corn starch onto the effected area. Give the powder time to soak up the stain and dry before flaking it off. Or you might want to try a combination of salt and fresh lemon juice; rub it in, let it soak, and then rinse it away.

While most outdoor textiles are mildew resistant, don’t take them for granted and neglect their care. The fabric is resistant, yes. But it you consistently leave your cushions and pillows outside, be sure to keep them clean. (See above on how to do this.) Mould and mildew will not attach to the textile fibres, but they will cling to leaves, pollen, and other “dirt.” If mildew becomes a problem, use a cleaning solution as soon as possible to remove the growth and spread. Homemade remedies include mixing 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 6 parts water. Most manufacturers have cleaning guides on their websites.

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MeCC Interiors is an award winning full service design studio specializing in residential design, commercial redesign, and project management. Have your spaces custom designed from the ground up or simply dressed and accessorized – no job is too big or too small.

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