How to Clean an Umbrella: Useful Tips for Cleaning a Patio Umbrella + Homemade Cleaning Solutions!

As the warmer days approach, so does our desire to spend more time outdoors. Patio umbrellas are an integral part of creating a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere in the garden as they provide shade, protect us from the sun’s UV rays and also from the rain. Along with this, however, they often get dirty quickly as dust, pollen and even bird droppings accumulate, which is an unpleasant sight. In today’s article, we will show you how to clean an umbrella quickly and easily so that it looks almost like new, and you can enjoy a clean and cozy outdoor space.

What do You Need to Know about Outdoor Umbrellas?

Outdoor umbrellas are definitely an important element of the exterior. They are made from a variety of materials with the most common being vinyl, acrylic fabrics and canvas. They are chosen for their ability (to varying degrees) to repel stains and moisture. However, dirt still finds its way in, and we need to clean the umbrella regularly as it is best to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. In this line of thought, cleaning by hand is necessary in most cases, as the fabrics are not particularly suited to a washing machine. Therefore, in the following lines, we will share with you some very simple and useful tips for cleaning patio umbrellas.

How to Clean a Patio Umbrella?

To prolong the life of your outdoor umbrella, it is necessary to clean it regularly, regardless of the material it is made of. Here are some useful tips on how to do just that:

1. First of all, if possible, remove the fabric from the frame, stretch it out and place it on a clean flat surface to make cleaning easier and avoid tearing it.
2. Then, use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to thoroughly clean the entire surface removing dust, pollen, twigs, etc. It is extremely important not to skip this basic step because it will make your later work easier.
3. To clean more stubborn stains, you can make a cleaning solution of 3 cups of warm water, 2 cups of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of dish soap. Mix and stir everything well until you have soapy water.
4. Start scrubbing the umbrella with the soapy solution using a soft-bristled brush or sponge (whichever you prefer). Focus on the dirtier areas by rubbing in a circular motion for a while.
5. Make sure the entire surface of the umbrella is soaked with your homemade cleaner. Then leave it for at least 10–15 minutes before rinsing. This way, the cleaner will remove even more stains and dirt.
6. Rinse thoroughly with clean water (it’s best to use a hose). Rinse everything well and make sure there is no residue from the cleaner.
7. Finally, while it’s still wet, place the fabric back on the frame, so it can dry out in the open air. This will also prevent possible warping due to water and drying.

Another Idea for Homemade Umbrella Cleaner

Another suitable cleaning solution with which to remove dirt and stains on the umbrella is also very easy to prepare! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 liter of hot water
• 5 teaspoons of soda crystal
• 3 teaspoons white vinegar

Mix everything well, and using a sponge or soft-bristled brush, scrub the umbrella. Let the cleaner sit for 15 minutes, then rinse and dry the fabric.

How Often Should an Umbrella be Cleaned?

As mentioned before, to increase the longevity of the umbrella, it is necessary to clean it regularly. Of course, there are a number of factors that affect how quickly your umbrella gets dirty, and therefore, how often you’ll need to clean it – it could be several times a year, once a month, or even once a week. What you can do is choose a suitable location for the umbrella that is not under fruit trees, for example, or position it further away from bird feeders. Another important thing to keep in mind is that when you are not using the umbrella for a long time, it is a good idea to either cover it or store it in a dry place.