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Scotchgard Outdoor Water & Sun Shield Fabric Spray10.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)2.5 x 2.6 x 8.1 inches0 poundsCheck on Amazon
To clean outdoor patio cushions, brush off loose dirt, wash the fabric with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild dish soap, scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse until no suds remain, and let the cushions dry fully on edge in the shade or breeze. For mold and mildew stains, step up to a fabric-safe outdoor cleaner, and keep the bleach mixture for fabrics whose maker approves it. Our top product pick for stubborn mildew is Sunbrella Renew Mold & Mildew Stain Remover, with Star Brite’s Outdoor Collection Mildew Stain Remover as a strong runner-up for general outdoor fabric.
This guide is research-based. We did not personally use these products on cushions; every method below comes from fabric-maker care guidance (Sunbrella’s published cleaning instructions are the main reference), product listing details, and common textile-care practice. Where a detail is not stated by the maker we write “not listed”. Mold is a household nuisance and some people are sensitive to it, so wear gloves, work outdoors where you can, and follow each label. If someone in the home has breathing concerns, ask a doctor before doing heavy mold cleanup.
Quick Answer: The Cleaning Routine at a Glance
- Light dirt and pollen: vacuum or brush, then soap and lukewarm water, rinse, air dry.
- Bird droppings, food, sunscreen: pre-treat with a dedicated outdoor spot cleaner, then wash as above.
- Black or green mildew spots: fabric-safe mildew remover, a dwell time from the label, soft brush, long rinse.
- Whole-cushion funk or musty smell: remove the cover if it has a zipper, wash the cover, and dry the foam insert separately and completely.
- After cleaning: apply a water-and-sun fabric protector only when the fabric is clean and fully dry.
Know Your Fabric Before You Pick a Cleaner
The single most common cleaning mistake is treating every cushion like the same material. Outdoor cushion covers usually fall into three groups, and the cleaner you use depends on which group yours belongs to.
| Fabric type | How to recognise it | Safe default cleaner | Bleach? | Dries in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solution-dyed acrylic (Sunbrella-style) | Soft, woven, colour runs all the way through the yarn; tag often names the brand | Mild soap and lukewarm water | The maker’s own guidance allows a diluted bleach-and-soap mix for mildew, with rinsing and care around thread and other fabrics | A few hours in warm, breezy weather |
| Solution-dyed polyester | Similar look to acrylic, often at a lower cost | Mild soap and lukewarm water | Avoid; bleach can fade polyester | Several hours |
| Standard polyester or printed “waterproof” cover | Smoother, slightly shiny or coated; printed patterns | Mild soap, soft cloth, gentle pressure | No; skip bleach and harsh solvents | Cover dries fast, filling can stay damp for a day or more |
If the tag is missing, test the cleaner on a hidden spot such as the underside seam and wait for the spot to dry before treating a visible area. Colour changes often show only after drying.
What You Need: A Short, Honest Shopping List
You do not need a cabinet full of products. A basic setup is one mild dish soap, a soft-bristle brush, a hose with a gentle spray setting, one fabric-safe mildew remover, and, optionally, a protector spray. The products below are real items we found in the site’s product store; the notes reflect what each listing says, not our own use.
1. Sunbrella Renew Mold & Mildew Stain Remover: Best Overall for Mildew on Acrylic Fabric
- Size: 32 fl oz
- Made by the fabric brand for outdoor fabric, upholstery, patio cushions, umbrellas and awnings
- Listing describes it as non-PFAS
- Price tier: Mid-range
Best for: Sunbrella-type cushions with visible black speckling or green film. Skip if: you only have light dust, because a mild soap solution is enough.
A mildew remover made by a fabric maker has one clear advantage: it is formulated around that maker’s fibres and finishes. The fabric brand’s own care page also describes a diluted bleach-and-soap method for mildew, so this ready-to-use product is the convenient alternative when you do not want to mix bleach near plants, lawns and other cushions. Follow the label for dwell time and rinsing.
In practice the workflow is simple: wet the cushion lightly, spray the stained area, give it the time the label states, work it with a soft brush in small circles, and rinse thoroughly. Stained areas that return after a few weeks usually mean the cushion was put away damp or the filling holds moisture, not that the cleaner failed.
Pros: made for outdoor fabric; handy for spot treating; no mixing. Cons: costs more per ounce than general cleaners; does not fix a wet foam insert.
2. Star Brite Outdoor Collection Mildew Stain Remover: Best for Mixed Outdoor Surfaces
- Described as professional strength mildew stain remover for outdoor fabric, vinyl and grout
- Listing says it is fast acting and safe on multiple surfaces
- Size: not listed in the short title
- Price tier: Budget to Mid-range
Best for: a patio with cushions, vinyl straps and sling seats that all need the same product. Skip if: your cushion is a delicate printed cover; spot-check first.
Star Brite is a marine-care brand, and marine fabrics live in constant damp and sun, which is why products from this category are common on patios. The value here is breadth: one bottle can handle a cushion, a vinyl strap and a bit of trim. The trade-off with any multi-surface cleaner is that you must rinse each surface well, because leftover residue attracts dirt.
Pros: multi-surface; labelled for outdoor fabric and vinyl; easy trigger-style use. Cons: check the label for rinse and ventilation directions; colour-test on dark or printed covers.
3. AL-NEW Patio Cushion Cleaner: Best Dedicated Cushion Spray
- 32 oz size listed (a 2-pack is also sold)
- Listing says it is safe for outdoor fabrics such as patio cushions, awnings and furniture covers
- Price tier: Budget to Mid-range
Best for: a whole-cushion refresh at the start of the season. Skip if: you need a dedicated mildew treatment for set-in black stains; pair it with a mildew remover instead.
A cushion-specific cleaner is helpful when the whole surface looks grey and dull rather than spotty. Spray evenly, let it work for the time on the label, agitate with a soft brush, and rinse. Because the listing is aimed at cushions, awnings and covers, it is a reasonable one-bottle choice for a small patio set.
Pros: aimed squarely at patio cushions; multi-pack option for larger sets. Cons: ingredient detail is not listed in the short title, so read the label for fabric cautions.
4. Carbona Outdoor Cleaner with Built-In Brush: Best for Quick Spot Cleaning
- 22 fl oz
- Active foam spot cleaner with a 2-in-1 sponge and bristle brush applicator
- Listing says it is safe for plants, grass and pets
- Price tier: Budget
Best for: bird droppings, food spills and sunscreen smears you want to catch the same day. Skip if: you are cleaning many cushions at once, where the built-in brush is slow.
The applicator brush removes the need to hunt for a scrubber while a stain is fresh, and fresh stains are far easier to remove than ones that bake in the sun. The foam stays where you put it on an upright cushion, which helps with back cushions that you cannot lay flat.
Pros: brush on the bottle; foam clings to vertical surfaces; listing mentions pet and plant safety. Cons: spot-cleaning tool rather than a deep-clean solution.
5. Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner: Best for Routine Washing
- 32 fl oz
- All-in-one cleaner for water-safe upholstery and vinyl; listed for dirt, spills and everyday stains
- Listing describes it as non-PFAS
- Price tier: Mid-range
Best for: owners who clean every month or two and want a fabric-brand product instead of dish soap. Skip if: a mild dish soap solution already works for you; the maker’s own guidance accepts that.
Routine cleaning is where most cushions are won or lost. A cushion that is wiped down before dirt sets rarely develops mildew, because mildew feeds on grime. This product is the maker-aligned option; it is not required for good results, since Sunbrella’s published method for everyday cleaning uses mild soap and lukewarm water.
Pros: fabric-brand formulation; works across fabric and vinyl parts. Cons: pricier than plain soap; same drying rules apply.
6. Scotchgard Outdoor Water & Sun Shield: Best Finishing Step After Cleaning
- 10.5 oz aerosol; multi-can packs are sold
- Listed as a water-repellent spray for outdoor gear and patio furniture
- Price tier: Budget
Best for: refreshing water beading on clean, dry covers that have lost their repellency. Skip if: the cover is still damp or stained; protectors lock in whatever is on the fabric.
A protector is not a cleaner. Apply it after the cushion is clean and completely dry, in a ventilated outdoor spot, in light overlapping coats. Many covers bead water at first and lose that effect after a few seasons of sun and washing, so a yearly re-spray is a common routine. Check the label for fabric limits, and never treat a damp insert.
Pros: inexpensive; easy to apply; extends the time between washes. Cons: aerosol needs ventilation; not a substitute for storing cushions dry.
Also Consider
30 SECONDS Pro Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
A scrub-free formula in a 32 oz spray, aimed at mold and mildew stains. Good for hard surfaces beside the cushions, such as table legs and decks; check the label before using on fabric.
Iosso Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
A non-chlorine concentrate that the listing says is colour and fabric safe and makes about 3 gallons. Useful if you prefer a concentrate and want to avoid chlorine near coloured covers.
Concrobium Mold Control Aerosol
The listing says it is bleach-free, odorless, and registered with the EPA for mold control. It is better suited to storage boxes, deck boxes and hard surfaces than to heavy fabric cleaning. Follow the label.
TAKAVU Laundry Brush Set
A soft boar bristle brush with a compact wooden handle, listed as gentle on delicate fabrics. A soft brush is the right tool for cushions: stiff bristles can fuzz the weave.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Outdoor Cushions Properly
Step 1: Remove loose dirt
Take cushions to a shaded driveway or lawn. Shake them out, then brush or vacuum with a soft attachment. Skipping this step turns dry dirt into mud once you add water.
Step 2: Wash with soap and lukewarm water
Fabric-maker guidance for solution-dyed acrylic calls for mild soap at roughly a quarter cup per gallon of lukewarm water, kept below about 100 degrees F. Hot water is not needed and may harm some finishes. Use a sponge or soft brush, wet the whole surface, and let the soapy water soak in for a short time before scrubbing lightly.
Step 3: Treat stains and mildew
Apply a fabric-safe stain or mildew remover to affected areas only. For black speckles, give the product the dwell time on its label, brush gently, and repeat once before escalating. For acrylic covers whose maker approves it, the diluted bleach-and-soap method is a documented option; follow the maker’s ratio, protect lawns and plants, and rinse thoroughly. Do not use it on polyester, on coated undersides the maker warns about, or on anything with a colourful print.
Step 4: Rinse longer than you think
Leftover soap or cleaner attracts dirt and can leave a sticky feel. Rinse with a hose on a gentle setting until the water runs clear and no suds appear. Press out water with a clean towel instead of wringing the cover.
Step 5: Dry completely
Stand cushions on their edges so water drains, in a breezy shaded spot. Flip them every hour or two. The filling takes much longer than the cover. A cushion that feels dry on top but cool and heavy inside will grow mildew again within weeks. Do not machine dry sun-fabric covers unless the care tag explicitly allows it.
Step 6: Protect and store
Once dry, apply a protector if needed. During rainy spells or the off season, store cushions in a ventilated deck box or indoors. Avoid sealing damp cushions in plastic bags; trapped moisture is the usual cause of mildew showing up in spring.
Worked Example: Cost and Time for a Six-Cushion Set
Assume a dining set with four seat cushions and two back cushions. Each piece takes roughly 10 minutes of brushing, 10 minutes of washing and 5 minutes of rinsing, so about 25 minutes per piece and about 2.5 hours in total. If you work on a warm, dry day, you can wash in the morning and have covers dry by late afternoon, while thick foam may need a second day. A single 32 oz bottle of mildew remover typically covers spot treatment for a set this size; a routine soap solution costs only a few cents per cushion. The expensive part is your time, which is why a regular light cleaning beats an annual rescue job.
How We Chose
This is a research-based guide. We did not personally use these products. We started with the fabric makers’ published care instructions (Sunbrella’s cleaning guidance and the instruction pages of retailers that sell its fabric), then searched the site’s product store for real, currently sold cleaners and protectors that match each stage of the job. We read listing titles and descriptions for stated sizes, intended surfaces and formula notes. We kept only products whose listing names outdoor fabric, cushions, or outdoor furniture, and we limited the roundup to a maximum of two products per brand. Anything not stated by the listing or the maker is marked “not listed”. Our price information uses tier words only, because prices change often.
Buying Guide: Choosing a Cushion Cleaner
Match the product to the problem
Dirt, pollen and everyday grime need a general cleaner or soap. Mildew speckles need a mildew remover. Water beading problems need a protector. Buying a mildew remover for a dust problem is wasted money, and a protector will not remove stains.
Check the fabric statement on the label
Look for words such as “safe for outdoor fabric”, “colour safe”, or “non-chlorine”. If the label lists a chlorine-bleach formula, it should be used only on fabrics whose maker allows bleach. Chlorine can fade coloured and polyester covers.
Think about application
Trigger sprays and foams suit upright cushions and spot cleaning. Concentrates suit large sets because you dilute them in a bucket. A built-in brush suits quick cleanups but is slow for big jobs.
Consider rinse and ventilation needs
Every product needs rinsing, but some formulas are stronger than others. Choose a lower-odour option if you will treat cushions near a balcony or an enclosed porch. Follow the label’s directions on gloves and ventilation.
Plan for prevention
The cheapest mildew treatment is dryness. Quick-dry foam, a ventilated storage box, and a protector spray once a year reduce the need for harsh cleaners. If a cushion has been repeatedly mildewed inside, the filling may be the problem and replacement can be the better choice than another round of scrubbing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using hot water or a pressure washer. Both can damage seams, finishes and foam.
- Bleach on everything. Only some fabrics tolerate it, and it can weaken thread.
- Scrubbing hard. A stiff brush fuzzes the weave and makes the cushion look worn.
- Putting cushions away damp. This is the number one cause of repeat mildew.
- Spraying protector on a dirty cover. It seals the dirt in.
More Picks Worth Considering
If you want a few more options beyond the main picks above, these cleaners and protectors from the store also fit outdoor cushion care.
Sunbrella Renew Mold & Mildew Stain Remover, 32 fl oz
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
The listing describes this as a mold and mildew stain remover for outdoor fabric, upholstery, patio cushions, umbrellas and awnings. It comes in a 32 fl oz size and is described as non-PFAS. Because it is made by a fabric brand, it suits cushions with visible black speckling or green film. Dwell time and rinse steps are not listed in the title, so follow the product label.
STAR BRITE Outdoor Collection Mildew Stain Remover, Professional Strength
This one is described as a professional-strength mildew stain remover for outdoor fabric, vinyl, grout and more, and the listing calls it fast acting and safe on multiple surfaces. That breadth helps if your patio mixes cushions, vinyl straps and sling seats. Bottle size is not listed in the short title. Spot-test a hidden seam first and rinse every surface well.
Sunbrella Restore Fabric Protector, 32 fl oz
A water-repellent spray for cushions and upholstery, listed as restoring water repellency and adding stain resistance against spills. It is non-PFAS per the listing and comes in a 32 fl oz size. Use it only after the fabric is clean and fully dry, as a finishing step once mildew has been dealt with. Coverage per bottle is not listed.
AL-NEW Patio Cushion Cleaner, 32 oz
The listing says this cleaner is safe for outdoor fabrics such as patio cushions, awnings and furniture covers. It comes in a 32 ounce size. It reads as an everyday cleaner rather than a heavy mildew treatment, so it fits routine washing between deeper cleans. Ingredients and dwell time are not listed.
Scotchgard Outdoor Water & Sun Shield Fabric Spray, 10.5 oz
A 10.5 oz water repellent spray for outdoor gear and patio furniture, described as protecting against the elements. The small can suits a couple of cushions or a quick refresh after cleaning. Spray on clean, dry fabric and check the label for cure time. Coverage area is not listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cleaner for outdoor cushions?
For routine cleaning, mild dish soap in lukewarm water is the safest default and is the method fabric makers publish. For mildew spots, a fabric-safe outdoor mildew remover such as Sunbrella Renew or Star Brite’s outdoor stain remover is a practical step up.
What is the best cleaner for mold and mildew on patio cushions?
Choose a product made for outdoor fabric and match it to your cover. Acrylic covers can be treated with a maker-approved mix or a ready-to-use mildew remover; polyester and printed covers should use non-chlorine products and a spot check first. Always follow the label.
Can I use bleach on outdoor cushions?
Only if the fabric maker allows it. Sunbrella’s published guidance includes a diluted bleach-and-soap solution for its acrylic fabric, with thorough rinsing. Bleach can fade polyester and damage thread or coatings, so do not use it when you are unsure.
Can I put outdoor cushion covers in the washing machine?
Check the care tag. Some removable covers allow a gentle cold wash, but many makers recommend hand washing and air drying. Never machine dry a cover unless the tag says you can.
How do I dry cushions quickly?
Press out water with a towel, stand cushions on edge in a breezy shaded place, and flip them regularly. Sunlight helps but direct hot sun can stress some fabrics. Make sure the foam is dry all the way through.
How often should I clean patio cushions?
Wipe or brush them every few weeks in the busy season, wash them once or twice a year, and spot clean spills immediately. Clean again before storage for winter.
Will a fabric protector stop mildew?
No. A protector helps water bead off but it is not a mildew treatment. Keeping cushions dry and clean is what prevents mildew.
Which Product Should You Buy?
If your cushions are acrylic-type and mildew keeps returning, start with Sunbrella Renew. If you want one bottle for cushions plus vinyl and trim, choose Star Brite’s Outdoor Collection remover. If you simply want a seasonal refresh, a cushion-specific cleaner like AL-NEW works well, and Carbona is a convenient spot cleaner. For regular washing, plain mild soap is enough, and Scotchgard is a low-cost finish once the cushions are clean and dry. Whatever you pick, dry the filling fully and store cushions in a ventilated place.
Sources
- Sunbrella: care and cleaning instructions for Sunbrella fabric
- Sailrite: how to clean Sunbrella fabric
- Outdoor Fabric Central: Sunbrella cleaning guide
- Manufacturer product listings for each cleaner and protector named above
- Textile-care guidance on solution-dyed acrylic and polyester outdoor fabrics
Last updated: October 2026
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