- Cleaning
- Care and Cleaning Instructions
- Special Cleaning Mixture
- Re-Treating the Fabric
One of the best ways to keep fabrics looking good and to delay the need for deep or vigorous cleaning is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded into the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous cleaning. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years. When it's time for a thorough cleaning, Fabrics can be cleaned while still on an awning frame, size permitting they can be removed for cleaning in a washing machine.
When cleaning fabrics, it is important to observe the following:
- Always use mild soap i.e. Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite. Never detergent.
- Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never more than 100 degrees.
- Air dry only. Never apply heat to fabrics.
Click here for information on cleaning specific stains.
If you are cleaning fabric while still on the frame, follow these simple steps.
- Brush off loose dirt.
- Hose the awning down thoroughly.
- Prepare a cleaning mixture of water and mild soap (no detergents).
- Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
- Allow soap to soak in.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Air dry.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off or other similar stains.
Prepare a special cleaning mixture:
- Four ounces (half cup) of chlorine bleach.
- Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of mild or natural soap.
- One gallon of water.
- Clean with soft bristle brush.
- Allow mixture to soak in for up to 20 min.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Air dry.
- Repeat if necessary.
If an awning cover is suitable in size for a washing machine, these steps should be followed:
- Use only mild soaps. No detergent.
- Wash and rinse in cold water.
- Air dry. Never put fabrics in your dryer.
As part of the finishing process, fabrics are treated with a fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This finish is designed to last for several years, but must be replenished after a thorough cleaning. Fabrics should be retreated after thorough cleaning or after five years of use.