Since the spores are widespread in the atmosphere, cushions and furniture left outside with moisture on them can develop unsightly mould and mildew. The cleaning solution you choose to remove mildew from outside cushions and lawn furniture depends upon the material from the cushion. Vinyl and vinyl cushions and furniture can take permeable substances, but fabric-type cushions might require exceptional precautions.
Vinyl and Plastic
To wash down plastic- and vinyl-covered cushions and furniture, mix 2 tbsp of hydrogen peroxide, a gallon of water and 1/4 cup of a mild dishwashing detergent in a bucket while wearing rubber gloves. If the pillows or furniture still possess mildew stains on them after cleaning, then add 1 cup of household bleach into a gallon of water; then wash them and let them dry. To protect the pillows and furniture, apply a paste wax used for cars and polish. This helps to avoid dirt and grime from sticking to the furniture, which makes it easy to clean later on.
Resin Furniture With Cushions
Clean resin furniture with a solution of 1 gallon of water, 2 cups of detergent and 1 cup of bleach. Scrub it thoroughly using a brush that is crocheted. Avoid using the bleach solution to textile cushions, unless they’re white, as the bleach can discolor them. For fabric cushions, mix 1 cup of water with 1 cup of ammonia. Dip a white lint-free fabric to the solution and dab the mildewed place on the pillow until the fluid is absorbed. Repeat until the stain disappears; rinse and blot dry. Lay the pillow in the sun until it completely dries.
Outside Man-Made Fabrics
Lots of the materials used on outdoor furnishings incorporate an artificial or acrylic petroleum-based element. While some of this furniture along with its cushions are mildew-resistant, if the furniture gets and stays wet, mildew nevertheless grows. A solution that consists of a gallon of water, 2 cups of detergent and 1 cup of household bleach can get rid of the mildew. Mix the solution completely before pouring it into a spray bottle. Spray the affected areas and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. After sitting, scrub using a soft-bristled brush, rag or sponge. Wash with clean water. Put it in the sun to dry.
Wood and Wicker Furniture
For wood furniture, bare or painted, mix 1 gallon of water, 1/4 cup of baking soda, 1 cup of ammonia and 1/2 cup of vinegar. Use a sponge, rag or soft-bristled brush to clean the furniture and the mildew-affected location. For wicker furniture, use two tablespoons of ammonia in 1 gallon of water, and apply it to affected areas using a hexagonal toothbrush to avoid damaging the wicker. After rinsing wood and wicker furniture with clean water, place it from the sun to dry, as the sun’s ultraviolet rays also destroy the mould.