How to Clean Patio Umbrellas

Patio umbrellas add color and shade to your yard.

Whether they are stored outdoors, in a shed, or in your garage, patio umbrellas are usually filthy when you first set them up in the spring. Do not worry; cleaning a dirty patio umbrella is easier than you think. You will have it looking new in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• Bucket
• Cleaning rags
• Soft-bristled cleaning brush

Instructions

1. Open your patio umbrella and determine if you can remove the fabric from umbrella. If you can remove the fabric, do so for easier cleaning.

2. Mix a cleaning solution of warm water and mild soap, such as dish-washing soap, in a bucket.

3. Wet the umbrella with a hose.

4. Wipe the pole and other hard surfaces down with a cleaning rag soaked in the warm, soapy water.

5. Use a cleaning brush and the soapy water to scrub dirty areas of the umbrella fabric.

6. Rinse the entire umbrella with a hose.

7. Allow the umbrella to completely dry in the sun before closing or storing it to prevent mildew.

Tips & Warnings

• If your umbrella has persistent mildew stains, use a mildew-remover solution made for fabrics.

References

• OutdoorPatioUmbrellas.com: Patio Umbrella Care & Maintenance