Machine Washing for Outdoor Cushion Covers

Outdoor cushion covers require special care and cleaning methods to keep them looking fresh while withstanding the elements. Washing outdoor cushion covers in a washing machine can be an effective cleaning approach when done properly.

The key is understanding the materials used and following the care instructions from the manufacturer. With some basic preparations and the right washing machine settings, you can safely clean most outdoor cushion covers at home.

Researching Outdoor Cushion Materials

Outdoor cushions are typically made from synthetic or natural fabrics that are fade, mold, and mildew resistant. Common materials include polyester, olefin, acrylic, cotton, linen, and polypropylene. These fabrics are durable and designed to handle sun exposure, moisture, and heavy use.

Before washing, check the fabric content label and care tag on your outdoor cushions. This will indicate if the covers are machine washable and at what temperature. It will also warn against bleach or other damaging cleaning agents.

Look for key terms like weatherproof, water repellent treatment, UV protection, and stain resistance. Performance fabrics like Sunbrella, Outdura, and Perennials are ideal for outdoor use and washing.

Identifying Fabric Material

The most common outdoor cushion materials include:

• Polyester - durable, colorfast, and resistant to stretching
• Olefin/Polypropylene - resistant to moisture, mildew, and fading
• Acrylic - soft, durable, and fast drying
• Cotton - natural fiber that breathes well but less water resistant
• Linen - natural look but wrinkles easily when washed

Polyester and olefin are most commonly used for outdoor cushions as they resist moisture, stretching, and fading. Acrylic adds softness while cotton and linen provide a natural look and feel. However, natural fibers are less water and weather resistant. Blends combine the benefits of synthetics and natural materials.

Understanding Fabric Care Symbols

Check labels for standard care symbols that indicate:

• Machine wash cycle - delicate, permanent press, etc.
• Water temperature - warm, cold water only
• Tumble dry, drip dry, or line dry
• Ironing instructions
• Dry clean only or do not dry clean

Follow these symbols exactly. Using hot water when cold is recommended can cause fabric damage and color loss. Tumble drying when air drying is specified can lead to shrinkage.

Checking Fabric Content Labels

Labels should list percentages of the following:

• Polyester
• Cotton
• Olefin
• Acrylic
• Linen
• Rayon
• Polyblend

The higher the polyester, olefin, or acrylic content, the more durable, fade resistant, and washable the fabric will be. Watch for rayon, cotton and linen which may require more delicate care.

Preparing Covers for Washing

Properly preparing the outdoor cushion covers before washing will help protect the shape, zippers, and fabric:

Removing Covers from Cushions

Unzip all covers and remove from inner cushions before washing. This prevents damage to cushion fillings like foam or down.

For large or heavy covers, have someone assist you in removal to avoid straining seams. Fold back zippers and Velcro closures so they do not catch on the cushions during removal.

Closing Zippers and Velcro

Close all zippers, hooks, ties, and Velcro completely. This prevents snagging or tangling in the washing machine.

If zippers do not close fully, use a binder clip to keep the teeth together during washing. For Velcro, place a small piece of fabric over the hooks to prevent clinging in the machine.

Treating Stains and Spots

Pretreat any tough stains with a laundry stain remover or use a stain fighting detergent booster. Target food, dirt, and grease stains which can become permanently set without pretreatment.

Use a clean toothbrush and small amounts of laundry detergent to gently scrub stain. Avoid harsh scrubbing that could damage the fabric.

Checking for Damage and Wear

Inspect covers for holes, tears, loose threading, or fraying seams. Make repairs before washing to avoid further damage.

Fabric glue or an iron-on patch provides an easy fix for minor holes and tears. Serging or sewing can mend split seams and frayed edges.

Washing Machine Settings

Choosing the right washing machine cycle and water temperature keeps outdoor covers looking vibrant:

Choosing Wash Cycle and Water Temperature

Use a gentle or delicate cycle in cold water to preserve dyes and fabrics. Avoid hot water that can cause fading.

Set the machine for a small or medium load size even if washing a single cover. This allows the cushion cover to tumble freely.

Selecting Detergent Type and Amount

Liquid detergents are preferred over powder types which may not dissolve fully. Follow package directions based on load size.

Use a gentle detergent specified for delicates or hand washing to prevent fabric damage during the wash cycle.

Using Gentle or Delicate Cycle

Low agitation cycles reduce stress and abrasion damage during washing. Soak heavily soiled items first.

The gentle/delicate cycle also decreases the spinning speed to avoid excess wrinkling and pulling.

Adding Fabric Softener or Enhancer

For added softness and resistance to fading, use a color safe fabric softener or enhancer.

Vinegar or borax can also naturally soften fabrics. Always measure carefully when adding to wash.

Washing Outdoor Covers

Proper loading and running of the washing machine is key to getting outdoor cushion covers fully clean while protecting the fabrics:

Loading the Washing Machine Properly

Evenly distribute covers in the machine so they have room to move during the cycle. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cleaning.

Wash one cover at a time or split covers between two loads if needed. Zippers, hooks, and thicker seams need space.

Running a Rinse Cycle if Needed

Use an extra rinse cycle to fully remove all detergent residues which can degrade fabric over time.

For covers with water repellent coatings, a second rinse ensures no detergent film remains.

Avoiding Fabric Damage from Agitation

Gentle or delicate cycles reduce friction and pulling that can weaken seams and cause pilling.

Check covers after washing - some fabrics like linen may require hand washing to avoid agitation damage.

Preventing Shrinkage and Color Loss

Wash in cold water and air dry to maintain fabric stretch and vibrancy of colors.

Prewash new covers separately the first time to test for potential shrinkage before drying.

Drying and Caring for Covers

Proper drying and ongoing care maintains the appearance and performance of outdoor cushion covers:

Lay flat or line dry covers to prevent heat damage from machine drying. If needed, use low tumble dry heat.