Fabric shades and awnings are both stylish and functional. Not only do they provide much needed shade from the fierce sunlight, but they also help to protect your property from the elements. However, if left unkempt, they can become breeding grounds for mildew, which can affect the appearance of your awnings and weaken the fabric over time.
The good news is that with the right techniques and cleaning solutions available from Trivantage, you can effectively remove mildew stains and protect your outdoor fabrics from future soiling.
Acrylic Fabric Awnings
Durability and vibrancy are what acrylic awnings are known for. The fabric is UV resistant and doesn’t fade easily. However, if left untouched, it’s just as susceptible to mildew and grime accumulation as any other fabric. Here’s how you can clean it:
Mildew Removal Tips
Before you start acrylic fabric awning cleaning, you should remove cobwebs, bird droppings, and other loose dirt by using a soft bristle brush.
In order to wet the fabric, using a power washer may seem like a no-brainer, but, in many cases, power washing leads to damaged fabric. Instead, it’s better if you use a garden hose to wet your acrylic awnings.
Cleaning Products & Solutions to Use
- Sunbrella® Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner: Designed for acrylic fabric awnings, this cleaner tackles tough mildew stains without causing discoloration.
- Mild Soap Solution: A mixture of dish soap and clean water is effective for general cleaning. Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
- Bleach Solution: One cup of bleach, 1/4 cup of mild soap, one gallon of water. Rinse thoroughly when finished.
Polyester Awnings
Shades & awnings made from polyester fabric are lightweight, water resistant, and affordable. While it offers great protection and resistance, it’s still necessary to clean and maintain them regularly.
Mildew Removal Tips
Polyester canvas awnings, while durable, require specific care. Start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris. Polyester can be sensitive to certain chemicals, so avoid using undiluted bleach or other harsh chemicals directly on the fabric.
Cleaning Products & Solutions to Use
- Cleaning Products: Consider using specialized awning cleaning products or proven multi-purpose outdoor fabric cleaners.
- DIY Solutions: A combination of hydrogen peroxide and warm water can be sprayed on the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft brush and/or blotting. A diluted mixture of white vinegar and cold water can also help to remove mildew stains.
Vinyl Awnings
Vinyl is an outdoor fabric that’s known for its versatility and performance under harsh weather conditions. Its waterproof and stain-repelling properties plus overall durability make it an easy fabric to maintain.
Mildew Removal Tips
Durability and resistance are hallmarks of vinyl awnings, but, if left unchecked, mold and mildew can eventually form over time. It’s important to conduct regular cleanings and maintenance with products and solutions that aren’t too harsh.
Cleaning Products & Solutions to Use
- IOSSO Mold and Mildew Stain Remover: A specially formulated product that removes mold, mildew, algae stain, oils, leaf stains, sap, and more. It is gentle to skin and has no harmful vapors - just add water to the biodegradable, non-chlorine powder and work the solution into the soiled area.
- DIY Solutions: You can regularly clean vinyl with a mixture of laundry detergent and water to keep it looking fresh. For those more stubborn stains, baking soda can be sprinkled on the affected area, scrubbed with a soft brush, and then rinsed off.
Learn More About Awning Fabric Cleaning & Maintenance
Dingy, dirty, and fading awning fabric can have a massive impact on the visual appeal of your outdoor spaces and curb appeal. But there are proven ways to keep your awning fabric in pristine condition.
Check out our comprehensive awning cleaning and fabric maintenance guides below:
These resources provide in-depth knowledge, ensuring your awnings remain in pristine condition for years to come.
