How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Updated: 27/11/25

Outdoor cushions are an integral part of your garden furniture. They can transform your outdoor set - but only if they are kept clean and protected. In this guide, we take a closer look at how to care for your outdoor cushions and offer advice from top brands, including 4 Seasons Outdoor.

Summer is the time for al fresco dining, drinks with friends and lounging under the sun, which means that the occasional spill is inevitable. Luckily, this guide covers everything you need to know about cushion care. 

How to clean your garden cushions

How to clean your cushions is probably one of the first things you want to know when you get your new patio furniture set. Care instructions can vary depending on the supplier, which is why we’ve written this guide. You might notice your cushions seem a bit dusty or have debris on them. When that happens all you need to do is dry brush your cushions and this will remove the dust and debris.

Before doing anything, we advise you to check the care instructions and label. 

Eventually, your cushions may appear a bit dusty or have debris on them. When that happens, simply dry-brush your cushions, and this will remove the dust and debris.

Once you have removed the dust, you need to spot clean the cushion covers. To do this, create a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Then take the soapy mix and a clean cloth or sponge. Gently clean the cushion cover until all marks are removed. Once you have done this, leave the cushion covers to air dry.

At JB Furniture, we advise against machine washing garden cushion covers. If you machine wash your cushion cover, you will remove the water-resistant lining and damage the cushion cover.

We recommend that you avoid using anything abrasive or harsh to clean your cushions. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, will spoil your cushions.

Simple Step-by-Step Guide

1) Dust the cushion covers with a dry brush

2) Make a solution of warm water and mild detergent

3) Spot clean the cushion cover with the soapy solution

4) Allow the cushions to fully air dry

How to clean Bramblecrest garden cushions

Bramblecrest cushions have a removable cover to make cleaning easier. The cushion covers are both water and stain-resistant. Bramblecrest recommends that you hand-wash the cushion covers using lukewarm soapy water. If you were to machine wash the cushions, you would slowly start to damage the water-resistant liner. 

If you spill anything onto the cushions, this can be removed by using an absorbent sponge or cloth, but you must do this immediately. Bramblecrest’s number one tip is to store your cushions when not in use, making sure to store them somewhere dry and secure.

How to clean 4 Seasons Outdoor cushions

4 Seasons Outdoor has designed its furniture so that it can be enjoyed all year round. All 4 Seasons Outdoor cushions are weather-resistant, and the cushion covers are made using a fabric called Olefin. The dye is added at an early stage, which means it is present in the core. Consequently, this makes the fabric colour-resistant as well as UV-resistant and water repellent.

4 Seasons Outdoor say that you don’t need to treat their cushions, but it’s still crucial to keep them clean. This means making sure any fallen, rotting leaves aren’t on your outdoor cushions and any bird droppings are removed. It’s in the name, really. 4 Seasons Outdoor furniture is made to be enjoyed in every season with little maintenance needed. They also echo Bramblecrest's advice by saying you should always store your cushions if they won’t be used for a prolonged period of time.

Nearly all the cushions have removable covers and can be washed using normal detergent at 40 degrees. Just make sure that you let them dry naturally rather than putting them in the tumble dryer. 

How to clean Maze garden cushions

If you notice any dust or dirt on your Maze cushions, the first thing you should do is brush the dirt off. The majority of the cushions have removable covers, so if you need to wash them, just use warm, soapy water with a clean cloth. Make sure to always read the manufacturer’s care instructions; you should be able to find them on the cushion tag.

Top Tips for Cleaning Your Cushions

We have a few top tips for looking after your garden cushions:

• Store cushions underneath your cover in Summer, then store somewhere dry for Winter

• Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaning solutions

• Always hand-wash the cushion covers

• Avoid machine washing outdoor cushions

• Remove food stains immediately 

Should I store my cushions?

Yes, you should store your cushions, especially in Winter. When storing your cushions, choose somewhere that is dry and secure. If the cushions can be stored off the ground, then that is even better. In Summer, you can leave your cushions outside underneath a protective furniture cover. However, if the weather is due to be wet, then again we would recommend that you store the cushions.

Keeping your cushions clean will help prolong the life of your garden furniture set. When you’re not going to be using your cushions, it’s always good to store them. We would recommend that you clean your cushions before you store them, that way when you get them out in Spring, they’ll look like new. JB Furniture recommends using a garden furniture cover to protect your furniture from any bad weather. 

Another solution for cushion storage is a cushion box. Cushion boxes are a neat way to store your cushions away when not in use. Not only that, but cushion boxes can stay outside all year. One thing to note, just make sure that the cushion box has a liner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cushions stay outside all year?

No, garden cushions can not stay outside all year. They should be brought inside and stored somewhere dry.

Do I have to clean my cushions?

No, you do not have to clean your cushions. However, cleaning your cushions will prolong their lifespan and keep them looking newer for longer.

Can I put my cushion covers in my washing machine?

No, we would not advise you to put your garden cushion covers in the washing machine. In doing so you will damage the water-repellent lining of your outdoor cushion.

Caring for your garden cushions is a simple yet important part of caring for your garden furniture. Following our recommendations, you will be able to correctly care for your cushions and keep them looking newer for longer.

If you’re unsure how to clean your cushions or can’t find the care instructions just get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help. 

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How To Store Outdoor Cushions

Is It OK To Leave Garden Furniture In The Rain?