The short version
Remove and wash the covers if possible (mind the care label), otherwise spot-clean with mild soap. The key thing: let them dry completely, upright and airy, otherwise mildew and mould stains develop.
Garden cushions quickly pick up stains from food, sunscreen and rain, and if they stay damp, mildew stains and mould threaten. With the right cleaning and above all good drying the cushions stay fresh and stain-free for a long time.
Get cushions clean & fresh
Check the label
Look at the care label first, many covers are removable and washable at 30 or 40 degrees.
Vacuum
Vacuum loose crumbs, dust and pollen before working wet.
Wash covers or spot-clean
Wash removable covers gently, treat fixed cushions spot by spot with mild soap and a soft brush.
Target stains
Pre-treat grease and sunscreen stains with a little ox gall soap, mildew stains with oxygen bleach, no chlorine.
Dry upright
Let cushions dry completely, upright and airy, only then use or store them.
Stored damp = mildew stains
The most common cause of ruined cushions is storing them damp. Always let pads dry completely and store them dry in winter. A cushion box or cover keeps them clean and protected from moisture.
What helps
What to look for:
- Ox gall soap to pre-treat stains
- Oxygen bleach against mildew stains (no chlorine)
- A soft brush and mild soap
Frequently asked
Can I machine wash garden cushions?
How do I remove mildew stains from cushions?
How do I avoid musty cushions?
The whole garden fresh
From furniture to cushions to the parasol , with the right product per material.
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