How Can You Wash and Clean Cushions?

No matter how neat you try to be, cushions of couches, loveseats, and chairs get dirty. Spills, pet dander, dust, and dirt collect on cushions over time. Outdoor cushions can collect even more grime, plus pollen, mold spores, and mildew.
The good news is that cushions or their covers can be cleaned easily. RJ Living can show you how.

How to Clean Indoor Cushions

Many people wonder, “Can couch cushion covers be washed in the washer?’ Well, here are a few easy maintenance moves that will freshen up your indoor cushioned seating spaces.

Wash Cushion Covers

If your indoor or outdoor cushions have removable covers, cleaning them may be as easy as popping them into the washing machine. Check for washing instructions. If you don’t have instructions, wash gently and line dry.

Remove Pet Hair

Using the pet hair attachment of your vacuum cleaner, remove pet hair from cushions. While you have the vacuum out, brush debris from seams with a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush is perfect) and vacuum them up as well.

Treat Stains and Odors

Blot stains with cloth or paper towels to keep them from soaking in. Dab vinegar on stains such as mustard or ketchup to break them down, rubbing toward the center of the stain to keep it from spreading.

For all-over cleaning of indoor cushions, dab the lather from a four-to-one mixture of laundry detergent and water on cushions. Rub with a soft brush and scrape away suds with a rubber scraper or squeegee. Wipe with a cloth and let air dry.

Odors can be treated with a sprinkle of baking soda that is then vacuumed up. Spraying with fabric refresher or equal parts vinegar and water will also remove odors.

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Cleaning outdoor cushions will keep your patio or deck furniture fresh and inviting. If you're also curious about which materials are best suited for outdoor use, make sure to read our guide on the Best Outdoor Furniture Materials to ensure your cushions and furniture withstand the elements.

Are Patio Cushions Washable?

If outdoor cushions are small or have removable covers, let the washing machine do the work for you. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and let them air dry completely before putting covers back on cushions.

Vacuum Loose Dirt To Get Ready For Cleaning

If your cushion covers can’t be removed and washed, lay them on a patio or deck to avoid new grass stains. Vacuum up any loose dirt.

Scrub Them Clean

Mix one tablespoon of dish detergent with 1/4 cup borax in a bucket of water for an effective homemade cleaning solution. Dip a brush into the solution and scrub the surface, paying attention to any stains. Let soak in for about five minutes.

Remove Mold and Mildew

If your outdoor cushions have mold or mildew, scrape them away outdoors to avoid having mold spores in your home. Spray with undiluted white vinegar and wait for about 10 minutes before rinsing. Let air dry thoroughly in a sunny area.

Treat Oily Stains

Sunscreens and food can leave oily stains. Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stained area, then scrape away powder once oils have been absorbed. Repeat until the oily stains are gone.

Remove Tree Sap

Treat stained areas with an enzyme stain remover, then make a paste with a powdered laundry detergent. Rub into the stained area, then rinse and air dry.

Rinse Cushions with Hose to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Using medium-high pressure, rinse cushions with your garden hose and let them air dry thoroughly. Blot them with clean towels and place them in the sun to speed drying.

Enjoy Your Seating Spaces

A patio or deck can be like an extra room of your home when you add a cushioned seating area around a table or fire pit. Indoors, cushioned spaces are where you relax and entertain. Inside or out, clean cushions make your surroundings welcoming and fresh.