How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

When I was putting together this blog post I thought it would be a good idea to answer some of your frequently asked questions pertaining to outdoor cushions and throw pillows.

As soon as summer is over, and we start putting away our garden furniture I have a habit of removing our throw pillow covers and giving them a wash before storing them away for the winter.

• Should I put away my throw pillows during the summer months, when they are not in use?

Yes, my advise is always to place throw pillows indoors when they are not in use.
a) You will give them a longer life span
b) They don’t get wet and damp with humidity
c) Any stray cats don’t use them as their beds and fill them with cat hair which takes time to brush off prior to using your pillows.

• How do I wash my Bdesign throw pillow covers?

Bdesign cushion covers are very easily cleaned in a washing machine using a mild detergent and choosing a low temperature setting.

• How do you keep your outdoor furniture cushions looking good?

We cover our furniture with giant covers after every use. Covers certainly safeguard furniture and cushions. I know it is a hassle to remove and replace the covers but it is amazing how both the furniture and the cushions remain looking as good as new and with a little bit of help the covers can be slipped on and off in no time.
 

• How do you clean your outdoor furniture cushions ?

No matter how much you try to safeguard your furniture cushions, they inevitably become dirty, some wine or any other type of drinks are bound to be spilt, dirty feet propped up, etc.

Quite honestly, I always find this chore rather daunting! By the time we start putting our garden furniture and cushions away the summer sun would have disappeared giving in to the winter dampness therefore my reasoning is to put away these cushions without washing them. In May, when summer is approaching and it is already quite sunny, I take the covers off the seat and back cushions, I wash them in the washing machine with mild detergent, at low temperature and using the delicate machine setting and put them up to dry away from direct sunlight.

Fitting the cushion covers into the foam padding is no mean feat but when it is done – phew we are left with our outdoor cushions looking brand new.

p.s. Before washing your cushion covers please check the washing instructions on their labels – don’t take it for granted that your covers can be machine washed.
 

• Here’s how to clean oil stains (from sunscreen as well as food) from your patio cushions:

1. first soak up any excess oil with a cloth
2. apply an absorbent powder such as cornstarch to the stain.
3. Allow the powder to sit for 10-15 minutes and then scrape it away with a straight edge.
4. Repeat this if necessary
5. Blot the stain with the regular cleaning solution and rinse thoroughly with a clean, damp microfiber cloth. Allow to air dry.
When you take just a little extra time for your cushions, you can make the most of them. Choose to invest in quality pieces and with a little TLC, you can enjoy your beautiful outdoor furniture cushions and throw pillows for years to come.

Style like a #CUSHIONDESIGNER - 

'Start with one or two prints you absolutely love and then layer in neutrals and colours that complement the others' - Brighten up your outdoor space with any one of our glorious patterns'.