Once thought of as an unnecessary accessory for outdoor furniture, cushions are now considered a must-have. They influence the comfort, elegance, and longevity of an outdoor seating ensemble.
However, no matter how mould- and mildew-resistant your outdoor garden cushions are, they are bound to get a few spills and stains.
So, it's definitely worth giving them some serious thought about washing your outdoor cushions. There's lots to consider, but don't worry! 
We've put up a comprehensive guide that covers all you need to know about washing outdoor cushions, so they last for years in a variety of climates and circumstances.
Let's jump into it.

How to Wash Your Outdoor Garden Cushions

Florida Corner Sofa

Before you start:
Prep the Cushions: If the cushion cover is removable, start by removing it. It makes cleaning easier and protects the inner cushion, which likely doesn't need cleaning and dries slower.
Next, inspect the cushions for stains or rips that need extra attention during cleaning.
Get Ready to Clean: Find a flat, open space to clean the cushions. Keep your cleaning supplies close by so you can begin.
Now, let's get down to business.

1. Get Rid of Loose Dust and Dirt

Outdoor garden cushions need a good shakeout every now and then to dislodge dust bunnies and pesky mites that might have taken up residence. 
Head outside, and with a dramatic flourish (optional but highly encouraged), give those cushions a good shake. Do this downwind from your garden furniture to avoid creating a dust cloud.
Bring out your vacuum cleaner for extra dust-sucking power, especially on cushions with lots of tiny spaces. 
If you have a cordless one, even better – it gives you the freedom to clean without being tethered to an outlet (because who wants a cord interrupting their outdoor groove?). Use the upholstery attachment for this step, gently gliding it over the seams and creases to suck out any lingering dust.

Vacuum cusions

2. Check Those Cushion Covers (Washing Machine or Not?)

Have you ever thought about putting your cushion covers in the washing machine? Well, some outdoor covers are made of fabrics that are very easy to clean. 
But wait, there's a detective job to do before you throw them in. Check the tag for washing directions; it's the best source of information.
No tag? No problem. If the covers don't feel like they have a special water-repellent shield, they're probably washing machine-safe. Just remember to go low and slow – low temperature and mild detergent are the names of the game.

Machine wash cushions


For those slightly stiffer covers, avoid a post-wash disco ball effect. Turn down the spin speed on your washing machine – around 1000rpm is perfect. And ditch the harsh bleach – a gentle, non-bio detergent is the preferred option.
When it comes to drying, some covers might be okay in the drier, but don't take the chance of them shrinking! Look on the label for the square with a circle inside that means "magic tumble dryer." A circle with no dots in it means low heat, and a circle with dots in it means high heat. A big X in red over the circle? The drying rack comes out!

Cushions Without Removable Covers

Some outdoor cushions, like the tough ones that go on your garden chairs, have covers that stay in place. Don't worry, though; these tough fabrics are usually treated with things that keep them from staining and getting wet.
After the vacuuming exercise, grab a clean, damp cloth and gently wipe them down. This should be enough to banish light marks and minor food spills.
For covers that can't be taken off, you can use warm water and a light detergent. But always do a patch test on the back of the cushion first to make sure there aren't any colour changes you don't want. A soft-bristled scrubber can be your secret tool for getting rid of tough dirt.
Feeling adventurous? For oversized cushions or seat pads, why not whip out the garden hose? Use high-pressure water to blast them, but don't use a pressure washer because it's too strong for most fabrics.

Replacement Cushions

Tough Stains That Won't Go Away

We all know that even the best cleaning can leave behind spots that won't come out. Bird poop is the worst thing that can happen to outdoor seats, so you need a special plan. (You should wear gloves for this fight!) First, scrape off the bulk, and then turn on high power for the vacuum. 
Remember that before this point, the less water that is used, the better. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add a drop of liquid detergent. Spray the spot. Do not clean, just blot! Scrubbing only makes the dirt stickier.
Once the stain disappears, for machine-washable covers, toss them in the wash again. For non-washable ones, rinse away leftover soap with the garden hose.


For tough spots like blackcurrant and mildew or red wine spills, you need a stronger potion. Spray one cup of white vinegar mixed with one gallon of warm water on the spot and let it sit for a while. Do not let it dry all the way.
You can also look for stain removers made just for machine-washable covers in the laundry area. But don't use them on outdoor covers that have a furniture protection layer on top of them; you could remove the sealant along with the stain.

Bonus Tip: Keeping Your Cushions in Top Shape

Prevention is always better than cure! Here's a quick tip: store your cushions indoors when not in use, especially during harsh weather. This will help prevent fading and mildew growth.
And there you have it! With a little elbow grease and these handy tips, your outdoor cushions will be squeaky clean and ready to elevate your patio soirees to a whole new level of comfort and style.

FAQs

1. Can I wash the whole cushion or just the cover? 

It depends on whether the cover is removable. If it is, washing just the cover is usually recommended, as the foam insert can take a long time to dry and is prone to mildew if it gets wet.

2. How do I clean the cushions if the covers aren't removable?

You can spot-clean them with a mild detergent solution or hose them down with a gentle spray.

3. What kind of cleaning solution should I use? 

A mild detergent solution or a mixture of white vinegar and water are popular choices. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.

4. How do I get rid of tough stains like mildew or bird droppings?

There are specific cleaning methods for these, often involving pre-treating the stain with a baking soda paste or a vinegar solution.

5. How do I dry the cushions? 

Letting them air dry in the sunshine is ideal, but you can also use an airing cupboard. It's important to make sure they are completely dry before storing them to avoid mildew growth.

6. How often should I wash my outdoor cushions? 

You should give them a basic clean at least three times a year, or more often if they get visibly dirty.