Clean a parasol & awning

Magazine · Garden & Outdoor

Clean a parasol & awning

A yellowed parasol, a stained awning with green film? How to clean the fabric gently , without ruining the water-repellent finish.

The short version

Clean the fabric spread open, with a soft brush and mild soap, spot by spot instead of soaking it all. After cleaning let it dry completely before you fold it, otherwise you get mildew stains. Then re-proof it.

Parasols and awnings are constantly exposed to the weather: pollen, bird droppings, green film and mildew stains attack the fabric. With the right gentle cleaning it stays beautiful, without losing the water-repellent finish.

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Clean the fabric gently

1

Clean it spread open

Open the parasol or awning fully, that way you reach everywhere and the fabric dries better.

2

Brush off dry

Remove loose dirt, pollen and cobwebs with a soft brush, dry.

3

Spot-clean with soap

Treat stains specifically with a mild soap solution and a soft brush, do not soak the whole fabric.

4

Green film & mildew

Dissolve green film with diluted cleaner, treat stubborn mildew stains with oxygen bleach, no chlorine.

5

Dry & re-proof

Let it dry completely, then protect it again with a waterproofing spray, that keeps water and dirt off.

Fully dry first, then fold

If damp fabric is folded or stored, mildew stains and a musty smell develop that barely come out. Always let it dry completely. Chlorine-based cleaners bleach the fabric and attack the finish.

Recommendation

What helps

What to look for:

  • A soft brush and mild soap
  • Oxygen bleach against mildew stains (no chlorine)
  • Waterproofing spray to re-protect
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Frequently asked

How do I remove mildew stains from a parasol?
Soak and treat with oxygen bleach, no chlorine. Then rinse well, let it dry and re-proof it.
Can I machine wash the parasol?
Only if the maker allows it and the cover is removable, then gently and cold. Otherwise clean by hand spread open.
How does the awning stay water-repellent?
Re-treat with waterproofing spray after every thorough cleaning. Cleaners and moisture wash the finish out over time.
MS
Magic Soap editors
We write clearly and honestly about cleaning and care, from the home to the garden. We make our recommendations independently.

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