Why I Started Caring About My Outdoor Cushions
I have to admit — I would see my outdoor cushions as seasonal napkins! I often picked out adorable outfits for spring and by autumn they’d be stained, faded and have some mold. So, I’d dump them and head into another season next year.
Things were different because of one weekend we spent at Olivia’s lake house. It looked just like the photos on Pinterest: those cushions were spotless, nothing smelled funny and the colors hadn’t faded over the years. I asked her, “What’s your secret?”
She simply responded, “I just view them as indoor cushions.” That line stayed with me. Since making that discovery, I’ve noticed that certain simple steps can make your cushions look wonderful all year, so you don’t need to replace them as often.
This post is for you if:
- You’re tired of buying new cushions every summer
- Your outdoor space deserves to feel as cozy as your living room
- You want an easy routine that actually works
7 Simple Ways to Keep Outdoor Cushions Clean
1. Store Cushions When Not in Use
It’s easy to decide, “I’ll skip them this time.” An occasional sprinkle or wet evening can cause mildew. I began to stack up my cushions and put a waterproof cover over them each night and it worked like a miracle.
It only takes me a minute and I haven’t had to get rid of mold since last year.
2. Use Waterproof Cushion Covers
This was a game changer for me. Since my favorite cream cushions were ruined by a sudden summer shower, I decided to invest in waterproof zippered covers for them. They are easy to clean and provide extra protection to the inner cushion.
I don’t stress out anymore whenever the weather app shows any clouds.
I realized their importance after returning from a weekend on the beach. Everything outside was soaked — except my cushions. Dry. Perfect. Saved.
3. Clean Regularly With Mild Soap
Once each week, I give the kettle a quick washing with warm water and soap. It’s like skincare for your patio. A soft brush helps with crumbs or dirt from little feet (or paws).
A short clean every week won’t feel so bad when August’s deep-clean comes around.
I keep this little guide stored for each kind of fabric I use.
| Fabric Type | Recommended Cleaner | Drying Method |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Dish soap + warm water | Air dry in sun |
| Acrylic | White vinegar solution | Shade dry |
| Cotton blends | Baking soda paste | Air dry, rotate sides |
4. Invest in a UV Fabric Spray
I never realized how fast sun can destroy fabric. One year, my cushions turned a bashful blush pink thanks to the sun. Since my pilot, I spray a UV protectant on my plane every season.
It’s like SPF for cushions. Colored fabrics do not fade and the webbing is strong when the cushions are left in full-sun patios.
5. Rotate Cushions Weekly
This tip came from my mom. Just as you turn your mattress, you should also flip your cushions. It stops the sun from making one side of the cushion fade, as well as preventing pressure marks caused by leaning in your favorite part of the chair for a long time.
On Sunday, I water my plants, plump my pillows and turn the cushions around.
6. Try a DIY Mildew Remover
Let’s talk mildew — the enemy of outdoor furniture. If I have time, I usually spray 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 tbsp baking soda in a spray bottle. After 10 minutes, brush the stained area gently with a soft brush.
I used this after a surprise thunderstorm soaked everything. One of the cushions was starting to get dark spots and I imagined that it must be destroyed. But the DIY spray brought it back to life.
7. Store Indoors Off-Season
End-of-season care is where I used to fail. Whenever I put away my cushions for fall, I use these four steps.
Let me walk you through it:
- Let them fully dry in direct sun
- Vacuum out any dust or leaves
- Wrap them in breathable cotton storage bags
- Store them in a dry, cool space (garage shelves work fine)
By keeping my cushions inside, I was able to avoid the moldy smell that happens when they sit in a wet shed.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need New Cushions Every Summer
These are the lessons I learned from going through trial and error and a few instances of clothes becoming soaked with water.
- Daily care makes seasonal upkeep way easier
- Prevention (like covers and UV spray) is cheaper than replacement
- Your patio should feel like a retreat — not a project
Rather than scrubbing and running errands for laundry, I now get to enjoy a coffee on my clean and cozy patio.
What works best for you when it comes to keeping your outdoor cushions clean?
