How to Clean Sunbrella Cushions (and Deal with Mould)

Quick answer: Brush off loose dirt, clean with mild soap and lukewarm water and a soft brush, rinse well and let the cushion air dry. Sunbrella covers can also be machine washed on a gentle cycle. For stubborn mould, follow Sunbrella's own care guide for a diluted cleaning solution.

Sunbrella resists mould and stains, but in damp British weather dirt and leaves left on the fabric can still give mould a foothold. Regular light cleaning keeps cushions looking new.

Everyday care

• Brush off leaves, pollen and dirt before they settle in.
• Blot spills straight away with a clean cloth.
• Stand cushions on their edge after rain so they drain and dry.

Spot cleaning

1. Mix a little mild soap in lukewarm water.
2. Clean with a soft brush or sponge.
3. Rinse thoroughly to remove all the soap.
4. Air dry, out of direct heat.

Machine washing covers

Unzip the covers and wash them on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry rather than tumble dry, and put the covers back on while still slightly damp so they ease back into shape.

Mould

Mould grows on dirt and moisture, not on the fibre itself. Clean the area, then follow Sunbrella's care guide for its recommended diluted solution for stubborn mould, rinse very thoroughly and dry fully. If the foam inside smells musty, replace the foam; our guide on replacing foam or covers explains how to tell.

Winter storage

• Clean and dry cushions fully before storing them.
• Store somewhere dry and ventilated, not sealed in plastic.
• Stand them on edge rather than stacking them flat.

Need new covers? Order garden cushion covers sewn to your foam size, or browse Sunbrella cushions.

Cleaning common stains

• Bird droppings: let them dry, brush them off, then spot clean with mild soap and water.
• Tree sap and pollen: brush off when dry, then wash the area with soapy water and rinse.
• Food and drink: blot straight away, then spot clean. Don't rub, which spreads the stain.
• Suncream and oil: treat quickly with mild soap and lukewarm water; oily marks attract dirt if left.
• Green algae on the edges: a sign the cushion stays damp. Clean it, then improve drainage and storage.

Cleaning marine vinyl and faux leather

Not every outdoor cushion is fabric. Marine vinyl and faux leather wipe clean with a damp cloth and a little mild soap. Avoid solvents and harsh cleaners, and dry the surface afterwards.

What not to do

• Don't tumble dry covers; air dry them instead.
• Don't put the foam in the washing machine.
• Don't put covers back on wet foam.
• Don't use bleach unless the fabric maker's care guide says it is safe.

A simple seasonal routine

1. Spring: brush, wash the covers and press-test the foam.
2. Summer: brush weekly and stand cushions on edge after rain.
3. Autumn: clear leaves quickly and give covers a final wash.
4. Winter: store dry, ventilated and on edge.

When cleaning isn't enough

If mould keeps coming back or the foam stays damp for days, the foam has usually had its day. Quick-drain foam lets rain pass straight through, so it dries far faster. Our guide to waterproof garden cushions explains how to pair fabric and foam, and you can order foam cut to size for your existing covers. Delivery is free across the UK, with import duty and VAT paid.

Warranty

Sunbrella fabric carries a 5-year fabric warranty, or 10 years on marine fabrics, and our workmanship is covered for 2 years. Still choosing a fabric? See Sunbrella vs other outdoor fabrics.

Cleaning Sunbrella step by step

1. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush.
2. Mix a little mild soap in lukewarm water.
3. Work the solution in with a sponge or soft brush, and let it soak in briefly.
4. Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains.
5. Stand the cushion on edge to air dry, turning it so every side dries.

Leftover soap attracts dirt, so the rinse matters as much as the wash.

Should I clean or replace?

If the fabric is clean but faded or worn thin, cleaning won't help; new covers will. Order garden cushion covers to fit your existing foam.

Drying cushions properly

Drying is where most mould problems start. After cleaning or heavy rain, stand cushions on their edge in a breezy spot, turn them every few hours and don't stack them until they feel dry right through. With quick-drain foam that takes hours; with ordinary foam it can take days.

Frequently asked questions

Can I put Sunbrella covers in the washing machine?

Yes, on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry them.

Why do Sunbrella cushions still get mould?

Mould feeds on dirt and moisture sitting on the fabric or in the foam. Regular cleaning and quick-drain foam prevent most of it.

Can I use a pressure washer?

It is better not to; a soft brush and gentle rinse are kinder to the fabric and stitching.