Using the Right Fabrics for Outdoor Decorating

Today’s outdoor fabrics are nothing short of terrific! New methods for treating sturdy fabrics has ensured they are more durable, sun resistant and suitable for outdoor use and better able to stand up to the ravages of weather and time. Although the most well known is Sunbrella, it is also the most expensive and more economical versions are available on the market that offer the same benefits.

You can choose from hundreds of outdoor fabrics that can be used to cover patio furniture, make a gazebo cover or a pool cabana. Many of these were initially developed for use on boats. Specialty weaves that look just like fine linen, tweed, or floral chintz are among the most popular choices for covering patio furniture cushions, and sheer fabrics suitable for outdoor curtains are also very much in vogue right now. There are also fabrics that block the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays for patio umbrellas, cabana tops or other shade-providing furnishings.

To ensure that the fabrics you buy are truly suitable for outdoor use, always buy from a dealer that specializes in outdoor fabrics. Remember that although today’s outdoor fabrics strongly resist mold and mildew, they are not immune to it altogether. Both mold and mildew can grow on dirt, so making sure that you keep your outdoor fabrics clean is the first step to ensuring they will remain mold and mildew free.

The best practice is to hose down your patio cushions, cabana tops, umbrellas and other items made with outdoor fabrics about once a month. Of course, if a windstorm deposits dirt in between scheduled cleaning, it only makes sense to rinse them again! Monthly hosing will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and reduce the need for frequent vigorous cleaning.

However, your outdoor fabrics will need to be deep cleaned at least every other year, so here’s the best way to clean them:

First, brush off loose dirt on both sides of the fabric. You can also vacuum them if you like; vacuuming encourages fabrics to release dirt that has become slightly embedded. Then hose the fabric down, prepare a mixture of mild soap such as Woolite or Ivory Snow and cool to lukewarm water. NOTE: Never use detergents on outdoor fabrics; they remove the mold and mildew protection and can damage fibers as well.

Apply the mixture with a natural sponge or soft bristled brush using gentle pressure and completing one area before moving on to the next. Allow the soapy mixture to soak in but not dry on the fabric, then rinse thoroughly and allow the fabric to air dry only. For persistent or stubborn stains, you can make a spot cleaning solution using half a cup of chlorine bleach, one-quarter cup of soap to a gallon of water.

Investing the small amount of time and energy necessary to keep your outdoor fabrics free of dirt will keep them looking good for years to come.

And don’t just stop with your furnishings - why not decorate the floor as well. You can find some truly inspiring indoor outdoor area rugs now that are just spectacular and can help tie your outdoor living area in with your interior.