Our parasols are made with the highest quality materials, and can stay outside through all weathers. They will shrug off rain, and maintain their vibrant colours for a prolonged time in the sun. They have been designed for low maintenance luxury.
The below guide outlines the steps you can take to keep your parasol looking like new for longer.
Cleaning the fabric parasol canopy
The solution-dyed fabrics and outdoor performance fabrics we use on our canopies are designed for care-free living. They are inherently mould, mildew and stain-resistant, as well as water-repellent and fade resistant, so you can be relatively relaxed when it comes to protecting your parasol from the elements. That said, there are a few things you can do to spruce your parasol fabric when needed.
Everyday care
One of the easiest ways to keep your parasol canopy looking fresh is to periodically use a soft brush to sweep away any environmental debris, leaves and pollen.
Deep clean
For a deeper clean, use a soft sponge or soft brush and water with a big squirt of washing up liquid to get rid of any general dirt. (Don’t use hot water to avoid the risk of shrinking!)
You can also remove your parasol canopy and wash it in a bath or the gentle cycle of your washing machine. Again, make sure the water isn’t any hotter than lukewarm!
After washing, make sure you rinse the fabric very thoroughly. If you don’t, mildew can end up growing on soap residue. Air dry, ideally out of direct sunlight (as fabrics fade faster when wet.)
We don't recommend pressure washing your parasol canopy. There’s just a chance you’ll cause a tear or break some stitching.
Of course, make sure the fabric is fully dry before you pack it away for a prolonged period of time.
Dealing with stains
Tree sap, berries, blood, food & drink
First up, treat stains as soon as possible. The quicker you clean stains, the easier they will be to remove.
Start by dabbing with kitchen roll to remove any excess followed by a gentle clean with a solution of water & washing up liquid. Use a soft brush or cloth, and only ever cold or lukewarm water.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let air dry, ideally away from direct sunlight.
If further cleaning is needed, you can use diluted bleach. (Double check that your fabric is bleach cleanable! Most outdoor fabrics are, but not all.)
Chlorine bleach won’t affect the colours of solution-dyed acrylic fabrics however regular use may eventually affect the strength of the fibres, so be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Mildew & mould
Whilst the majority of outdoor fabrics don’t support mildew growth, mildew may grow on dirt and residue that is on the surface. A solution of 10% bleach and water can be effective at cleaning fabric with signs of mildew or mould. Leave to soak for 15 minutes, give a gentle rub and then rinse thoroughly.
Bird Poo
This one gets a special category, as it’s quite likely to happen to your parasol at some point. If you can let the dropping dry, you’ll avoid driving the stain deeper into the fabric. Once it’s crispy, use a stiff-bristled brush or a credit card to remove the dried residue. Follow with a soapy wash (washing up liquid is great) to remove the final bits, and rinse well.
Rust stains
Another stain with a slightly alternative approach to getting rid of it. Saturate the stain with lemon juice. Cover with salt. Allow to sit for 24 hours, refreshing lemon juice as needed / if you can. Rinse and repeat as needed. Then wash with a normal solution of water and washing up liquid. Rinse thoroughly.
Cleaning the wooden parasol frame
Whilst our wooden frames are resistant to mould and mildew, signs of mildew may appear on any accumulated dirt and debris coating the frame. This can be washed away with soapy water and a brush. Add a little bleach for stubborn marks.
If you ever use a chemical cleaner on the frame, it would be advisable to re-finish with any outdoor, uncoloured water-based preserver or top coat. We recommend: Sikagard Wood Preserver.
Never use a pressure washer to clean a wooden parasol frame. The central poles of parasols are made from sections of wood essentially glued together. A process called lamination, which increases the strength of the pole and ensures no warping. The pressure washer could weaken the lamination layers, so it’s best to take a manual approach to cleaning your parasol frame when needed.
Summer storage
Sun, wind and rain don’t only cause fabric to eventually fade, they also damage the composition of fabric over the long-term, making it more susceptible to tears. Covering your parasol at night or when not in use will help to lengthen the life of your canopy.
Do ensure your parasol is completely dry before putting its waterproof cover on.
Winter storage
Our parasol frames are designed to withstand both the dry heat of the summer and the wet of winter. That’s not to say that they won’t last longer and look better with a few months of respite from the weather.
If you have the luxury of space in a garage or shed, that is the optimum place to store your parasol over winter to increase its lifespan.
If your parasol needs to stay outside all winter, ensure the canopy is either covered or removed.
Repairs and spare parts
If a wooden arm or finial of your parasol gets broken, we sell replacements. These parts are easily replaceable using simple tools.
Replacement canopies
When it’s time to update your canopy, we can make replacement canopies, without the need to buy a new frame. Pick your fabrics or colours, and drop us a line for advice and a quote.
