You’ve finally invested in some beautiful outdoor furniture. You meticulously chose each piece to suit your style and outdoor space perfectly. But, as the seasons change and your furniture braves the elements, you’re left wondering: can you wash patio furniture covers to keep them looking their best?
Protecting your investment with covers is key to extending the life and look of your furniture, but even the best covers need regular cleaning. Thankfully, maintaining clean covers is more manageable than it might seem. Our Bucks pool service provides exceptional maintenance and repair, ensuring your pool remains in perfect condition year-round.
Maintaining Clean Patio Furniture Covers
Just like your outdoor furniture, covers need attention to withstand the elements. Exposure to rain, sun, dirt, and even bird droppings takes its toll. But before tossing them in the washing machine, let’s explore the best way to clean your covers.
Understanding the material type is crucial when washing patio furniture covers because textiles need different maintenance. Polyester is strong, resistant to mildew and wrinkling, and frequently machine-washable, but hand washing may be necessary for UV-resistant coatings. Vinyl is simple to clean but may require a softer touch, whereas nylon is more durable and typically machine washable.
Although polypropylene is lighter and less expensive, it is not as durable, so use caution when handling it. Regardless of the material, wash the filth away with a hose. For more stubborn stains, use a soft brush and mild soapy water. Rinse well and let it air dry. Enhance your outdoor living space with our selection of deck furniture in Buckingham, PA, offering style, comfort, and durability.
Can You Put Patio Furniture Covers in the Washing Machine?
This is where it gets tricky. Many outdoor furniture covers are, indeed, machine washable. This is often the case for polyester and nylon. But, as we touched upon earlier, always check the care label.
If your cover is machine washable, use cold water and a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Skip the fabric softener—it can hinder the material’s water-resistant properties. After washing, allow it to air dry. And please, whatever you do, avoid the dryer. High heat can shrink the cover and cause damage.
If you’re unsure about machine washing or your cover is made of a delicate material like polypropylene, it’s best to opt for hand washing. Fill a tub or large bucket with cold water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge your cover and gently agitate it with your hands. Rinse thoroughly and avoid wringing or twisting, which can damage the fabric. Hang it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Regularly cleaning your covers is a simple but effective way to protect your investment, preventing mold, mildew, and premature wear and tear. Choosing covers made from durable materials and sticking to a simple cleaning routine allows you to relax and enjoy your stylish outdoor space for years to come.
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