Awning Care

Easy-care Sunbrella Fabrics

It’s easy to keep your Sunbrella awning fabric clean year-round. One of the best ways to keep Sunbrella fabrics looking great is to brush off any dirt and debris with a soft bristle brush and to hose fabrics off monthly with clean water.

These simple steps prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent intensive cleaning. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will only be needed every two to three years.

General or Light Cleaning

To clean Sunbrella while still on an awning frame:

  • Brush off loose dirt with a soft bristle brush
  • Hose down with clean water
  • Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap (such as Woolite® or Dawn® dishwashing liquid)
  • Use a soft bristle brush to clean. Avoid excessive scrubbing, and do not use a hard-bristled brush or anything that will abrade the fabric
  • Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric
  • Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed
  • Air dry

Cleaning Stubborn Stains on Awnings

Sunbrella fabrics do not promote mildew growth, however, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric. If you Sunbrella awning (or umbrella) falls victim to a stubborn stain, follow these steps:

  • Prepare a solution of 1 cup of bleach and 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of clean water
  • Allow mixture to soak into fabric for up to 15 minutes
  •  Clean with soft bristle brush
  • Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed
  • Air dry
  • Repeat if necessary
  • Retreatment of fabric for water and stain resistance will be necessary after using bleach solution

Sunbrella fabrics can be cleaned while still on an awning frame. Some fabrics, size permitting, can be removed to aid in the cleaning of stubborn stains or for professional cleaning.


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