Outdoor fabrics can add comfort, style, and functionality to your outdoor living spaces. Whether you have patio furniture, outdoor cushions, or other outdoor decor, investing in high-quality fabrics can make a big difference in the longevity and appearance of these items. However, outdoor fabrics are constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause damage over time if not cared for properly. To protect your investment in outdoor fabrics, it's important to know how to care for them effectively. In this blog post, we'll share our top tips for caring for outdoor fabrics, including how to choose high-quality fabrics, protect fabrics from the elements, clean fabrics regularly, store fabrics properly during the off-season, and address stains and damage immediately. By following our care tips, you can keep your outdoor fabrics looking and feeling great for years to come. 

Picking the best fabric

PU-coated polyester: Polyurethane-coated polyester is a heavy-duty outdoor fabric that is resistant to water damage, fading, and mildew. It's commonly used for outdoor furniture covers and awnings, but can also be used for cushions and pillows.

Cotton Canvas: Cotton canvas fabrics can be used in outdoor furnishings, but they are not the most ideal choice for prolonged outdoor use. Cotton canvas is a natural fibre that is breathable and comfortable to sit on, but it is not inherently water-resistant or UV-resistant like some other outdoor fabrics.

Water-resistant canvas: Water-resistant canvas can be a good choice for outdoor furnishings like cushions, pillows, and outdoor covers. It's important to note that water-resistant canvas is not completely waterproof, and it may still be vulnerable to water damage if it is exposed to prolonged or heavy rainfall.

PU Coated Polyester	Cotton Canvas	Water Resistant Canvas

5 Top Care Tips

1. Choose high-quality fabrics: Investing in high-quality outdoor fabrics can make a big difference in their longevity and ability to withstand the elements. Look for fabrics that are made specifically for outdoor use, and that are resistant to fading, mildew, and water damage.
2. Protect fabrics from the elements: Even high-quality fabrics can be damaged by exposure to the sun, rain, and wind. To protect your outdoor fabrics, consider using covers, awnings, or umbrellas to shield them from direct sunlight and rain. You can also move them to a covered area during particularly harsh weather.
3. Clean fabrics regularly: Regular cleaning is essential to keeping your outdoor fabrics looking and feeling their best. Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can damage outdoor fabrics. Make sure you sponge dry!
4. Store fabrics properly during the off-season: When the outdoor season comes to an end, it's important to store your fabrics properly to protect them from damage during the off-season. Make sure they are completely dry before storing, and store them in a cool, dry place where they won't be exposed to moisture or pests.
5. Address stains and damage immediately: If you notice stains or damage on your outdoor fabrics, it's important to address them immediately. Blot up spills and stains as soon as they occur, and treat them with a specialized cleaner as soon as possible.

Tips for Cleaning Outdoor Fabrics

1. Brush off loose dirt and debris: Use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove any loose dirt and debris from the fabric.
2. Spot clean stains: If there are any stains on the fabric, use a solution of mild detergent and water to spot clean the area. Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't discolor the fabric. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the stain, and then rinse with clean water.
3. Use a specialized cleaner: For more stubborn stains or dirt, use a specialized outdoor fabric cleaner. Follow the instructions on the cleaner carefully and rinse thoroughly with clean water after use.
4. With a microfibre cloth or a sponge, give the fabric a wipe down.
5. If you encounter dried bird droppings, leave a damp cloth on the affected area for a few minutes. The warmth of the water can help to loosen the droppings, making them easier to wipe away. It's best to avoid scrubbing the area if possible.
6. Protect the fabric: To prevent future stains and dirt from accumulating on the fabric, you can treat it with a fabric protector spray. This will help repel water and stains and make it easier to clean in the future.

Remember; proper care and maintenance is the key to ensuring that your outdoor fabrics stay looking and feeling great for years to come. By following our top tips for caring for outdoor fabrics, you can protect your investment and enjoy your outdoor furnishings to the fullest.