When it comes to preserving the beauty, and extending the life of shade sails and outdoor umbrellas, proper maintenance is important. Like Gold Coast shade sails, your outdoor umbrella will be exposed to the harsh elements for extended periods, along with dirt and pollution, not to mention occasional bird droppings and tree sap. 

If you are keen on protecting your outdoor umbrella from wear and tear, regular cleaning is a must. Whether it’s made from vinyl, solid vinyl, vinyl mesh, canvas, or other stretchy materials, it is important to learn the proper care. 

In general, most outdoor umbrellas make use of treated acrylic fabric, which is a popular choice since it is known to repel moisture, mildew, and stains. However, most outdoor dirt embeds in the fibers, which can cause, which can result in unsightly stains.  

Routine Cleaning

When in use, regular cleaning of your outdoor umbrella is a must — at least once a month. Increase cleaning frequency if your umbrella is placed near tall shrubs and trees. 

Use Soft Bristle Brush

When removing dirt, you can use a soft bristle brush or a vacuum to avoid driving dirt deeper into the fabric using a circular motion. 

Use Laundry Detergent and Lukewarm Water

Instead of using dish soap, as many opt to do, it is generally best to use 1/4 cup of laundry detergent for every gallon of lukewarm water. Use a good quality laundry soap that will help effectively remove fabric stains. Allow the detergent solution to soak into your umbrella’s fabric for 15 to 20 minutes to remove stubborn dirt before rinsing it off with a hose sprayer. 

For Removing Stains & Mildew

MIldew and tree sap can cause heavy straining on outdoor umbrellas. In such cases, you will need to use stronger cleaning solutions.  Prepare the following cleaning solution: 1/4 cup laundry detergent per gallon of lukewarm water mixed with 1 cup chlorine bleach. Make sure to wear protective gloves when working on the solution using a soft bristle brush. 

Clean the Umbrella Frame

Aside from the canopy, you also need to clean the frame. When available, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can use a soft bristle or a soft cloth to wipe the frame’s surface and allow it to air dry.