Cleaning & Care Guides

Maintaining the Cleanliness and Care of Sunbrella Fabric

Below you will find the suggested cleaning methods for Sunbrella fabric, tailored to tackle both common and stubborn stains.

We recommend Carbona Stain Devil cleaning products as they offer a range of 9 formulas designed to combat various types of stains. Simply apply the corresponding product to your specific stain. Following cleaning, ensure to rinse the fabric thoroughly and allow it to air dry. Additionally, we recommend the use of the 303® Fabric Guard™ product line for Sunbrella fabric care and upkeep.

If you have any inquiries regarding the application of cleaning products, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

For your convenience here is the Sunbrella Stain Chart List to download:

Sunbrella Stain Chart Guide for Sunbrella Fabrics (PDF)

Interested in keeping your Sunbrella fabric in top condition?

The key is to regularly maintain it, which helps delay the need for deep cleaning. Here's how:

General Cleaning for Sunbrella Upholstery and Marine Interiors

  1. Remove loose dirt by brushing.
  2. Blot (don't rub) spills with a dry cloth. For oil-based spills, absorb corn starch first, then scrape.
  3. Create a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water.
  4. Apply the solution with a spray, sponge, or soft brush.
  5. Let the solution soak, then rinse thoroughly.
  6. Air dry.

General Cleaning for Sunbrella Sheers

Machine wash in cold water and air dry or opt for professional dry cleaning.

General Cleaning for Sunbrella Shadow

Use mild soap and water, avoiding excessive heat to prevent shrinking. Air dry without steam pressing or using electric or gas dryers.

General Awnings and Marine Tops/Covers Cleaning

Monthly hose-downs with water prevent deep dirt buildup. A thorough cleaning may be needed every two to three years.

Depending on size, clean while attached or remove for washing. For machine washable items:

  1. Use mild soap, adding bleach for heavier stains.
  2. Wash in cold water and air dry.
  3. Re-treat for water and stain resistance afterward.

For on-frame cleaning:

  1. Brush off dirt, then hose down.
  2. Create a cleaning solution with mild soap and water.
  3. Use a soft brush to clean and rinse thoroughly.
  4. Air dry, possibly skipping re-treatment based on fabric age.

Spot Cleaning (for non-removable fabric)

  1. Lightly mist mild soap and water onto the stain.
  2. Gently work the solution into the stain with a sponge or soft brush.
  3. Rinse thoroughly and blot excess moisture.
  4. Air dry, repeating until all soap residue is gone.

Cleaning Removable Sunbrella Fabric

Hand Washing:

  • Soak in mild soap solution, then rinse and air dry.

Machine Washing:

  • Consult manufacturer instructions, pre-treat stains, and wash in cold water on delicate. Air dry.

Heavy Stain and Mildew Cleaning

Use a solution of bleach and mild soap, allowing it to soak before cleaning and air drying.

Re-Treating Sunbrella for Maintenance

Apply 303 Fabric Guard after thorough cleaning to restore water repellency.

Helpful Tips:

  • Protect surrounding areas when using bleach.
  • Consider the environmental impact when using bleach.
  • Sunbrella air-dries quickly; avoid machine drying.
  • Use caution when ironing on synthetic settings.
  • Bleach and aging may affect non-Sunbrella components.


Non-Sunbrella Cleaning & Care Guides

Aqualon Sunbrella Cleaning & Care Guide (PDF)

Hydrofend Sunbrella Cleaning & Care Guide (PDF)

Serge Ferrari Sunbrella Cleaning & Care Guide (PDF)