Clean outdoor cushions and patio furniture by brushing off loose dirt, washing the fabric with a mild soap solution, rinsing well, and, most importantly, drying them completely in the sun before use, because trapped damp is what causes the mildew and musty smell outdoor cushions are prone to. Outdoor fabric is built to take sun and rain, but it still collects dust, pollen, bird mess and mildew, and the foam inside holds water, so the cleaning is straightforward but the drying is what matters.
Cleaning the cushions
- Brush and vacuum off loose dirt first, including pollen, cobwebs and leaf debris in the seams.
- Remove the covers if they unzip, and check the care label, some outdoor covers are machine-washable on a cool, gentle cycle.
- Wash with a mild soap solution. A little gentle detergent in warm water, worked over the fabric with a soft brush, suits most solution-dyed outdoor fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals that strip colour and any water-resistant finish.
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap is left to attract dirt.
- Dry completely in the sun, standing the cushions on edge so air reaches all sides and the foam core dries fully.
The frame and furniture
Wipe down plastic, metal and treated-timber frames with mild soapy water and rinse. Woven outdoor furniture (resin or natural) collects dust in the weave, brush it out, wipe, and dry. Our outdoor furniture cleaning covers woven seaters, loungers, egg chairs and umbrellas, see the outdoor furniture cleaning page.
Why drying matters most
Outdoor cushion foam soaks up water and dries slowly, and a cushion put away or used while damp inside is exactly how mildew and a musty smell start. Always dry cushions fully, on edge and in the sun, before using or storing them. If mildew has already taken hold, see how to remove mould and mildew from outdoor cushions.
Keeping them good for longer
- Store cushions dry and under cover when not in use, or in a cushion box.
- Dry them after rain rather than leaving them damp.
- Brush off debris regularly so it does not work into the fabric.
- Consider a fabric protector to help repel water and slow soiling on a clean cushion.
Common questions
How do you clean outdoor cushions?
Brush off loose dirt, wash the fabric with a mild soap solution and a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry the cushions completely in the sun, standing them on edge so the foam core dries. Machine-wash removable covers only if the label allows. Drying fully is the step that prevents mildew.
Can you machine-wash outdoor cushion covers?
Only if they are removable and the care label allows it, on a cool, gentle cycle. Many outdoor covers are washable, but check first to avoid shrinkage or stripping the water-resistant finish, and always dry them fully before putting them back on the foam.
Why do my outdoor cushions smell musty?
Because moisture is trapped in the foam, which grows mildew and mould. Outdoor foam dries slowly, so a cushion used or stored while damp inside develops a musty smell. The fix is to clean and then dry them completely in the sun, and to store them dry.
For a professional clean of outdoor cushions and patio furniture, request a quote or see our outdoor furniture cleaning page.