Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your patio, porch, or outdoor living space. However, increased sun exposure, rain, pollen, dirt, and spills can take a toll on outdoor furnishings. Knowing how to care for outdoor furniture can help keep your space looking beautiful while extending the life of your investment.
Whether you’re refreshing your patio for the season or simply looking to maintain your existing setup, a little preventative care can go a long way.
choosing the best fabric for summer
Not all outdoor fabrics are resilient enough to maintain their appearance over time. If you’re shopping for new cushions or upholstery, selecting the best fabric for summer can make maintenance much easier.
See our list of the best fabric for summer here. These durable outdoor fabric options are specifically engineered to withstand the elements while maintaining their appearance over time.
Homeowners often ask about the coolest fabric for summer as well. While no fabric can completely eliminate heat, lighter-colored and breathable materials generally stay more comfortable in direct sunlight than darker, denser fabrics.
how to care for outdoor furniture
Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to keep outdoor furnishings looking their best throughout the season.
A few simple tips include:
- Remove loose dirt, pollen, and debris regularly.
- Damp dust to remove soiling.
- Clean spills promptly before they have time to set.
- Have your furnishings professionally cleaned to increase their longevity.
Regular care helps prevent soil buildup and can keep your outdoor fabric looking fresher for longer.
During the summer months, sunscreen, body oils, food spills, and beverages are some of the most common sources of soiling on outdoor cushions and upholstery. While these substances may not always be immediately visible, they can attract dirt over time and make fabrics appear dingy. Addressing spills promptly and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule can help preserve the appearance of your outdoor furnishings.
Before professional outdoor cushion cleaning
After professional outdoor cushion cleaning
how to protect outdoor furniture
Understanding how to protect outdoor furniture is just as important as cleaning it.
To help extend the life of outdoor cushions and upholstery:
- Store cushions during extended periods of severe weather when possible.
- Rotate cushions to encourage even wear and sun exposure.
- Use furniture covers when appropriate.
- Address stains and spills as soon as they occur.
Additionally, outdoor furnishings can still benefit from professional fabric protection. From sunscreen and body oils to food and beverage spills, outdoor fabrics face many of the same challenges as indoor upholstery— often with the added stress of sun and weather exposure.
Professional fabric protection can help make cleanup easier, reduce the risk of permanent staining, and help preserve the appearance of your outdoor furnishings throughout the season.
Caring for outdoor furniture
Knowing how to care for outdoor furniture and how to protect outdoor furniture can help keep your outdoor living spaces looking their best all summer long.
Whether you’re selecting the best fabric for summer, searching for the coolest fabric for summer, or maintaining existing outdoor fabric, regular cleaning and proper protection can help preserve the beauty and longevity of your furnishings for seasons to come.
If your outdoor fabrics need to be cleaned or protected, we’re here to help!
