Best Patio umbrellas and how to clean them

The ultimate function of these outdoor patio umbrellas would be to create shaded areas to enjoy time outside. They also complement a décor on a patio or deck that serves as an additional living space outside the home. Due to prolonged usage, the patio umbrellas would become old and worn or it will be damaged from inclement weather conditions. However it can be repaired quite easily in many cases and brought back to functional state.

The outdoor patio umbrellas can get pretty dirty after a full season outside in the elements. The umbrellas would be exposed to various elements like falling leaves, berries, seeds and bird droppings. Hence it is essential to give the umbrella a good cleaning before it is stowed away for the winter. Since the patio umbrellas are bulky, cleaning them would be a time consuming task. But make sure that you clean it properly to increase its shelf life.

You can begin the cleaning process by making a protective surface on the ground. You can use a bunch of towels, a tarp or an old blanket. The protective surface should be big enough to accommodate the umbrella when it is fully open. Open the umbrella completely and lay it on its side on the protective surface in such a way that no part of the umbrella would touch the ground. Once the umbrella is opened you need to check if the fabric can be removed from it. The fabric of some of the patio umbrellas can be removed and that would be easier for cleaning.

You need to use a hose to wet the umbrella. If you are not able to find a hose, you can pour clean water from bucket onto the surface. Make someone hold the umbrella in place to keep it from rolling off the protective surface. Fill a bucket with clean, warm water mixed with a mild detergent. You can use dish washing soap or laundry detergent. Using a cloth or soft sponge you need to start scrubbing the umbrella. If tough stains are present, you need to brace the area by putting your hand on the other side of the fabric. Poles and other hard surfaces can be cleaned using a rag soaked in warm soapy water.

Remember to use mild soap and a damp cloth to wipe down frame parts. For cleaning vinyl umbrellas you can get a convertible top cleaner from an automotive goods store. This is because soap and water is not enough to clean the vinyl umbrellas. For better cleaning process, you need to buy an outdoor patio umbrella that has a removable canopy which can be cleaned in the washing machine. Make sure that you don't use abrasive cleaners on the frame or pole of the umbrella.

Rinse the umbrella with clean water to remove the soap and dirt. You need to thoroughly rinse to make sure that soap residues are not left on the umbrella. Keep the umbrella opened in the sun for drying before storing it inside.