From pressure washing the patio to fluffing those outdoor pillows, you may think you’ve crossed everything off your cleaning checklist. However, when it comes to tidying up the awning, many homeowners aren’t sure of what they should do when it comes to proper cleaning methods. Use these do’s and don’ts to leave your fabric canopy in pristine condition and ready for the warm weather.

Do:

Use the right supplies.

Just like in the laundry room, it’s essential to use material-specific techniques to clean your awning. Canvas awnings will fare well with hand washing while using mild dish soap and lukewarm water, while vinyl and acrylic can withstand tougher, specially-designed commercial cleaners. 

Brush off debris periodically.

Over time, small twigs, leaves, and nuts may fall from the trees above and land on your awning. Dirt and sand may also end up on the fabric after a windy day. To prevent stains and general discoloration, use a clean brush or broom to lightly sweep your awning at least once every two weeks.

Don’t:

Leave it open during inclement weather.

If you have a retractable awning, it’s important to remember to close it back up after you're done enjoying the shade. This function is not only for star-gazing—it’s also to protect the awning during storms. High winds could catch the fabric like a sail, tearing it away from your home’s exterior, while windswept branches and hail could also puncture the canvas.

Ignore signs of rust or mildew.

These residues could permanently stain your awning if you don’t act fast. To get rid of rust stains from nearby hardware, mix white vinegar into your warm water and dish soap solution before cleaning, and add a bit of bleach when removing mildew. Use a toothbrush to thoroughly scrub the solutions into the material before rinsing.

If you have additional questions about awning maintenance, reach out to Carolina Awning Fabricators LLC of Seagrove, NC. For over 10 years, they’ve provided high-quality fabric awnings for retail stores and private backyards alike. Whether you envision nautical stripes or a brand advertisement, you can design an awning that complements your property’s exterior. To learn more about their inventory, visit the website or call (336) 736-6258 to ask for a free estimate.