How To Clean Patio Cushions With Borax

Having patio cushions adds an extra level of comfort to your outdoor furniture. However, with frequent use, they can get dirty and stained. In this article, I will share my personal experience and the step-by-step guide on how to clean patio cushions with borax.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Remove the Cushion Covers

The first step is to remove the cushion covers from the patio cushions. This will make it easier to clean and ensure that the cushion filling doesn’t get wet.

Step 2: Vacuum the Cushions

Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris from the cushions.

Step 3: Create a Borax Solution

Mix 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket. Stir the solution until the borax dissolves completely.

Step 4: Apply the Borax Solution

Using a sponge or brush, apply the borax solution to the cushion covers. Make sure to cover all areas, especially the stains and heavily soiled areas. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse the Cushions

After 30 minutes, rinse the cushions thoroughly with a hose or a bucket of clean water. Make sure to remove all the borax solution from the cushions.

Step 6: Dry the Cushions

Hang the cushion covers to dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not put them in the dryer as the heat can damage the fabric and shrink the cushion covers.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Always read the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning your patio cushions.
If the cushion covers are heavily soiled or have tough stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover before applying the borax solution.
Use a soft-bristled brush or a sponge to apply the borax solution. Do not use a hard-bristled brush as it can damage the fabric.
For extra cleaning power, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the borax solution.
Make sure to rinse the cushions thoroughly to remove all the borax solution. Residual borax can cause skin irritation and damage the fabric.
Do not use bleach or fabric softener on your patio cushions as they can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.
If you have a large number of patio cushions to clean, consider renting a steam cleaner or hiring a professional cleaning service.
Store your patio cushions in a dry and well-ventilated area when not in use to prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Clean your patio cushions at least once a year to prolong their lifespan and maintain their appearance.
Consider using cushion covers with removable and washable fabric for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Pros and Cons

Using borax to clean patio cushions has several advantages:

Borax is a natural and eco-friendly cleaning agent that is safe for the environment.
Borax is inexpensive and readily available at most grocery and hardware stores.
Borax is effective in removing tough stains, dirt, and grime from fabric.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using borax:

Borax can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems if inhaled or ingested.
Borax can damage certain types of fabric, especially delicate fabrics such as silk and wool.
Borax can leave a residue on the fabric if not rinsed properly, which can attract dirt and make the cushions look dingy.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After using borax to clean my patio cushions, I was impressed with the results. The borax solution removed all the stains and dirt from the fabric, leaving the cushions looking and smelling fresh. However, I did notice that some of the cushions felt stiff after drying, which may be due to the residual borax. Overall, I would recommend using borax to clean patio cushions, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Question & Answer

Q: Is borax safe to use on all types of fabric?

A: Borax is generally safe to use on most types of fabric, but it can damage delicate fabrics such as silk and wool. Always test the borax solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire cushion.

Q: Can I use borax to clean outdoor furniture?

A: Yes, you can use borax to clean outdoor furniture, but make sure to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and test the solution on a small area before applying it to the entire furniture.

FAQs

Q: Can I put my patio cushion covers in the washing machine?

A: It depends on the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some cushion covers are machine washable, while others require hand washing or professional cleaning.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my patio cushions?

A: It is not recommended to use bleach on patio cushions as it can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Instead, use a natural cleaning agent such as borax or white vinegar.