Clean Sunbrella Graphic System Fabrics

One of the best ways to keep Sunbrella fabrics looking good is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clean water. This helps prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminates the need for more frequent cleaning. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years.

When it's time for a thorough cleaning, Sunbrella fabrics can be cleaned while still on an awning frame. When cleaning Sunbrella fabrics, it is important to observe the following:

• Always use a mild soap or our Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner.
• Water should be cold to lukewarm.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Air dry only. Never apply heat to Sunbrella fabrics.
• DO NOT use a power washer/sprayer.
• DO NOT use vigorous abrasive scouring action to clean areas with graphics.
• DO NOT use harsh cleaners/solvents, such as acetone, to clean areas with graphics.
• DO NOT machine wash.

Download Sunbrella Graphics System Fabrics Cleaning Instructions PDF

General or Light Cleaning

To clean Sunbrella while still on an awning frame, follow these simple steps:

• Brush off loose dirt.
• Hose down.
• Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap or our Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner or a cleaner such as 303^® Multi-Surface Cleaner.
• Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
• Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
• Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
• Air dry.
• May not require re-treatment depending on the age of the fabric.

If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off or other similar spills.

Oil-Based Spills

Immediately apply an absorbent such as cornstarch directly on the oil-based spill. Let sit for 10 minutes and remove the excess using a straight edge or ruler. This helps remove the spill and prevents it from being pressed into the fabric. Then proceed with the cleaning process.

For tough stains, use Sunbrella Extract™ Oil Based Stain Remover or treat with a strong degreaser and rinse thoroughly.

Specific information on spill cleaning is available in our Cleaning Guide.

Heavy Cleaning for Stubborn Stains and Mildew

Sunbrella fabrics do not promote mildew growth, however, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric. To clean mildew, or other stubborn stains:

• Prepare a solution of 1 cup chlorine bleach and 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of clean water.
• Clean with soft bristle brush.
• Avoid brushing the "edge" of the vinyl graphics. Brush from the vinyl graphics out; away from the edge of the vinyl.
• Allow mixture to soak into fabric for up to 15 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
• Air dry.
• Repeat if necessary.
• Retreatment of fabric for water and stain resistance will be necessary.

We recommend using our Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner followed by a diluted bleach solution.

Specific information on spill cleaning is available in our Cleaning Guide.

Retreating Sunbrella Fabrics

Sunbrella fabrics are engineered to provide long-term performance. After repeated thorough cleanings, or years of use and exposure, you may choose to refresh your fabrics with an appropriate retreating agent.

We recommend Sunbrella Restore™ Fabric Protector & Repellent or 303^® Fabric Guard^™, available in the United States, and Tex’Aktiv, available internationally.

Applying a retreatment:

• Clean Sunbrella fabric using one of the cleaning methods outlined.
• Allow Sunbrella to completely air dry.
• Apply retreatment in a well-ventilated area following instructions on the container.

Professional Awning Cleaners

You may have access to professional cleaners. In evaluating the services of a professional cleaner, you should inquire about a their experience in working with Sunbrella fabrics and knowledge of cleaning and retreating requirements.

DO NOT dry clean Sunbrella fabrics.