Clean Patio Cushions Mildew Smell

We all love enjoying our patios during warm weather, but it can be tough to relax when your patio cushions smell like mildew. Mildew is a fungus that can grow on any damp surface, and it loves to feast on the fabrics of our outdoor furniture. Not only does mildew smell bad, but it can also cause allergies and respiratory problems. If you're dealing with musty-smelling patio cushions, don't worry - there are a few simple steps you can take to clean them and get rid of the smell.

What You'll Need

Bucket
Water
Mild dish soap
Vinegar (optional)
Baking soda (optional)
Sponge or soft-bristled brush
Hose
Sunshine (optional)

Instructions

Remove the cushions from your patio furniture and shake them out to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. If the mildew smell is particularly strong, you can also add 1 cup of vinegar to the solution.
Sponge or brush the solution onto the cushions, working it into the fabric. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
Rinse the cushions thoroughly with clean water from the hose.
If the mildew smell is still lingering, you can try sprinkling baking soda over the cushions and letting it sit for a few hours before rinsing again.
Hang the cushions in the sun to dry. If you don't have access to sunshine, you can also dry them in a well-ventilated area.

Prevention

The best way to prevent mildew from growing on your patio cushions is to keep them dry. If you can, bring them indoors when you're not using them. If you must leave them outside, make sure to cover them with a tarp or other waterproof material.

You can also help prevent mildew by keeping your patio area clean and free of debris. Mildew loves to grow in damp, shady areas, so try to keep your patio furniture in a sunny spot. If you do get mildew on your cushions, be sure to clean it up right away to prevent it from spreading.

With a little care and attention, you can keep your patio cushions looking and smelling their best all season long.