How to clean your garden awning in 4 simple steps
If you’re wondering how to keep your awning looking as good as new, follow our simple 4 step guide to the correct way to clean your garden awning. We recommend cleaning your awning at least twice a year, usually at the beginning of summer so you’re ready for the season where you’ll use it most, and again at the end.
Step 1 - Prepare your awning cleaning solution
To get your awning sparkling clean, all you need is a bucket, warm soapy water and a sponge, cloth or soft bristled brush. You can buy specialist awning shampoo and you should always patch test your chosen product to make sure it’s compatible with your awning. Never use harsh chemicals such as bleach as this can ruin the fabric.
Step 2 - Gently clean the awning
Once you’ve got your cleaning solution prepared, extend the awning and set up a stable step ladder so you can reach all of the fabric (get someone to help you with this by holding the ladder steady and the bucket). Take your cloth and gentle wipe away the dirt, taking your time and being careful not to rub to hard as this can damage the fabric or frame. If you encounter particularly stubborn dirt, gently scrub the fabric until its gone. Don’t forget to do the frame and cassette too!
Step 3 - Allow the awning to dry naturally
Before you retract the awning back into its cassette, make sure it is completely dry. This is to stop any moisture getting trapped inside with the awning which can lead to rust and mildew. With this in mind, make sure to pick a warm sunny day for the big awning clean so the sun can dry it out quickly.
Step 4 - Treat the awning with a waterproof spray
Having finished cleaning your awning, there’s no better time to refresh the waterproof layer of your awning. Simply buy a specially designed waterproofing spray and apply it according to the instructions once the awning is totally dry.