A selection of materials makes up canvas awnings because each material exhibits durability and water resistance properties while offering shade. So, when considering how do I clean canvas awnings, you must take the material into account.
Timely cleaning of your canvas awnings can increase their lifespan. Also, when you put effort into proper cleaning and maintenance, it will remain new for a long time. So, we have the complete guidelines for your canvas awning maintenance, read on!
What Are Canvas Awnings Made Of?’
Canvas awnings are frequently made from Woven cotton, Acrylic fabric, Polyester-canvas blending, and Linen material. Water-resistant and durable materials are considered for canvas awnings so that they can easily withstand extreme outdoor conditions. Have a look at the key aspects of the commonly used fabrics.
Woven Cotton- The Traditional Choice
This material is the most popular choice due to its:
- Natural and breathable fiber
- Aesthetically pleasing appearance
Acrylic Fabric- Smart Alternative
Its efficient characteristics set it apart from other materials.
- The solution-dyed acrylic fights effectively against mildew, fading, and water
- Sturdier than most materials and holds color longer
Polyester-Canvas Blends
This material nowadays is a popular pick due to its smarter approach.
- Gets you the aesthetic look of canvas cotton with extended durability
- Provides superior UV and water resistance if coated with acrylic or PVC
Vinyl-coated Canvas- The Durable One
Vinyl-coated awnings tend to be very long-lasting.
- Provides top-notch waterproofing
- Extremely heavy-duty, sturdy, and absolutely ideal for commercial use
Why Cleaning Methods Vary Based on Material?
Cleaning methods significantly vary based on the canvas awning material since each comes with a unique texture and a particular set of properties. The different extents of traits like breathability, water, or UV resistance also matter.
- Using the wrong method, tools, or detergent will weaken or fray the fibers and cause faster wear and tear
- If not cleaned properly, some materials will grow mold and mildew in no time
- The wrong cleaning method can lead to fading and discoloration and reduce the aesthetics
- Harsh chemicals of cleaning products, detergents, or soaps can strip the protective coatings and consequently, your awning won’t be effective in resisting UV or Water
Why Canvas Awning Cleaning is Crucial?
The importance of cleaning canvas awnings can not be overstated since cleaning maintains its appearance, extends lifespan, and improves energy efficiency. Let’s look into the key reasons!
Fabric Longevity
By restricting fabric degradation from dust, dirt, mold, mildew, or grime buildup, appropriate cleaning prolongs the durability of canvas awnings. It also ensures structural integrity. Also the right cleaning soap or detergent won’t cause the fabric to degrade.
Prevents Wear and Tear
Regular cleaning ensures that your awning is not weighed down with debris. This also ensures sufficient ventilation.
These factors contribute to eliminating faster wear and tear and excessive moisture leading to mold and mildew. But proper drying after washing the awning is needed.
Maintains Aesthetic Appeal and Structural Integrity
A clean awning will definitely enhance the aesthetic appearance. It will look fresh, well-maintained, and bright.
Extreme buildup of dirt can stress the awning hardware and frame with extra pressure. The awning might break down for this reason. Therefore regular cleaning is needed.
Functionality
A clean awning will obstruct UV rays and rain effectively. Hence, you will get optimal functionality with proper shading protection. Cleaning ultimately maintains the efficiency of the awning while keeping all its traits intact.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Canvas Awning
There are distinct cleaning methods for different awning materials. Detailed steps will make the deal more comprehensive!
How To Clean Cloth Awnings With Cotton Fabric
Cotton fabric is a natural fiber, therefore it absorbs water and is prone to mildew and mold.
Appropriate Cleaning Method
- Use warm water and a mild soap for cleaning (avoid harsh detergents which may weaken the fabric)
- Gently rub, do not scrub. Scrubbing will fray the fabric
- The post-cleaning procedure includes waterproofing (a must)
Acrylic Fabric
Acrylic material tends to be long lasting but the waterproofing coating may come out over time.
Appropriate Cleaning Method
- A specialized acrylic fabric cleaner or simply a mild soap will work
- For scrubbing the dirt a soft-bristle brush can be used but be gentle
- Lastly, rinse properly and simply air-dry it
Polyester-Canvas Blend
The synthetic fibers of polyester will restrict stains but will get extremely damaged if you use strong detergents.
Appropriate Cleaning Method
- Use lukewarm water with a super mild soap
- You must rinse thoroughly after cleaning to avoid buildup that can attract dust and dirt later
- Let it air dry, avoid using excessive dryer heat or direct sunlight otherwise, it will shrink or fray
Vinyl-coated Canvas
Harsh solvents can cause the vinyl-coated canvas to degrade. Thus, you need to ensure that you use mild solvents that don’t harm the material.
Appropriate Cleaning Method
- For mildew removal use vinegar
- Instead of brushes, use soft cloth or sponge
- Put gentle pressure, don’t rub
How to Clean Fabric Awnings Safely?
Safely cleaning the awning fabric requires following the cleaning steps one by one. Start with brushing off loose dirt and dust. Then use lukewarm water and soap to make a solution and gently clean the fabric with it, lastly dry the fabric (cleaning methods for cleaning each awning fabric material are mentioned above).
However, we have some safety tips for cleaning awning fabric while not disturbing its functionality.
- Whenever you clean or wash the awning, you must dry it completely and keep away from using bleach, harsh chemicals, or strong detergents which can damage the fabric
- Consider checking the manufacturer’s instructions before stepping into the cleaning procedure. The instructions will provide guidelines including the appropriate cleaning method
- Instead of harshly scrubbing stains, use diluted solution on them before rinsing
- Avoid high-pressure water, otherwise, the fabric will encounter faster wear and tear
- Routine cleaning is a must to restrict dirt buildup
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Canvas Awnings
There are some common mistakes almost everyone makes while cleaning a canvas awning. Let us help you with precautions!
Incorrect Cleaning Solutions
The manufacturer’s guide will always tell you about what to use and what not to use on the particular awning fabric. Consider reading it.
However, most people think using strong chemicals or bleach will get better results. But it’s highly forbidden. Use gentle cleaning solutions only.
Harsh Rubbing or Excessive Scrubbing
Awning fabrics tend to be quite sensitive. Therefore, scrubbing excessively can cause the fabric to wear and tear easily. Use brushes with soft bristles. Keep this in mind especially while dealing with delicate canvas.
Ignoring Stains
Stains on your awning need to be addressed immediately. After a few while, it becomes more difficult to remove them. Often solutions fail to work and you’re left with excessive scrubbing to remove the stain but that option is also off the table.
Hot Water
You can never use hot water on the awning fabric. Hot water will cause it to shrink, get damaged, and fray quickly. You need to use lukewarm water for effective results. Use mild soap and lukewarm water to make the solution.
Inappropriate Rinsing
Thoroughly rinsing away all the soap, solution, and water is very crucial. Otherwise, the fabric will get mold, mildew and ultimately stop functioning due to compromised durability. Addressing the mold and mildew is also important. Use a specialized solution according to the instructions.
Aftercare Tips for Maintaining Clean Awnings
If you want your cleaning results to effectively last, some aftercare tips for maintaining cleaning awnings from experts can help!
Regular Rinsing
Using a garden hose for regularly rinsing off dirt, debris, or dust from the awning will keep the awning clean for a longer time. This way you won’t have to go through the big step-by-step cleaning process often.
You must dry the awning completely. Air drying is the best option. Preventing mold and mildew gets easier this way.
Never fold it while still damp, as this promotes mold and dust exposure, This simple step helps preserve its quality.
Retract in Extreme Weather Conditions
In bad weather, consider pulling the awning in to save the fabric from heavy rain, hailstorms, or excessive wind. Otherwise, extreme weather can cause the fabric as well as the awning structure to get damaged.
Inspect for Issues
You need to regularly check the awning to see if there are any slight signs of damage, mold, mildew, wear, or tear. Instantly addressing these issues helps a lot and contributes to the lifespan of the awning fabric.
Prevent Mold Growth
Mold spores and mildew are notorious for thriving in damp areas. For people living in humid climates, upholstery awnings require special fabric protectors that can block mold growth.
Consider investing in mildew-resistant sprays to easily tackle mold spores. These sprays ensure unpleasant smells never settle into the fabric as mildew odor is known to be quite pungent.
Clean Off Anything That Can Settle On The Awnings
Leaves, dirt, and dust settle on awnings made from canvas easily. Gently brushing away debris with a soft bristle brush helps avoid damage to the fabric.
This prevents damage to the fabric while also ensuring there is no build-up of debris. Making it a routine to brush off debris every week can yield great results.
Look for Damage Along The Canvas
Keeping an eye on the canvas awning for thinner areas, holes, or tears is recommended throughout the year. Damage such as tiny holes grow into gaping holes if left untreated.
Even a canvas repair kit can save the day, enabling cumulative damage to repairable damage. Treating damage like this helps mitigate problems in the future.
Correct Storage in The Winter Season
Taking down the awning in the winter months is a great idea in case it is not going to be used. If you are not going to use the awning, put it in a dry, cool place.
This will protect it from extremely negative weather conditions that would wear its quality down.
Strong Winds Should Be Avoided
A moderate amount of wind is tolerable but strong winds may jeopardize the canvas awnings. Make sure to peg or roll up the fabric away if there are any foreseen storms.
It is definitely easier to take these precautions rather than suffer from damages caused by harsh winds.
Resistant Weather Covers May Be Useful For You
If your fabric awning does not need to be used for some time, enclosing it with a cover that protects against harsh weather could be beneficial as it prevents dust, grime, and UV rays.
Covering the awning will reduce the abuse the fabric gets and it is the cheapest solution to increase the lifespan of the canvas awning.
Bottom Line
A quality canvas awning will transform your outdoor space by adding both style and functional benefits regardless of your choice.
So, now that you know how do I clean canvas awnings, you should consider the individual approaches for your unique type of canvas awning. This way, you can take optimal care of the awning while making it last longer.
