There you are, peeling back your outdoor sectional cover after a long week, only to be greeted by that all-too-familiar whiff: mildew. Or worse, those grim little black spots. Yep, mould has struck again. But why does mildew grow on outdoor furniture covers in the first place? And more importantly, in which ways can you stop it?
Let’s get into it.
Moisture + Dirt = Mould Central
Mould and mildew thrive in damp, dark, and dirty environments. If your custom covers, waterproof BBQ Covers, or outdoor cushion covers are exposed to moisture and muck for too long, mould spores will happily move in and set up shop. Rain, morning dew, even humidity, all play a role.
And while waterproofing sounds ideal, it can actually trap moisture inside the cover if the material isn’t breathable. So, while your cushions stay dry, your covers could be turning into a biology project.
Tips to Avoid Mold and Mildew on Outdoor Tarps
The key to keeping mould and mildew at bay? Don’t let moisture and grime settle in. Here’s how:
- Clean Before You Cover
Don’t just chuck a cover over a dirty cushion or grill. Give everything a quick wipe-down first. This goes for your fire pit covers, outdoor dining set covers, and air conditioning unit covers too. A clean surface underneath means fewer chances for mould to grow.
- Choose Breathable Materials
If you’re opting for waterproof custom covers, make sure they’re also breathable. Look out for options like breathable outdoor covers for mold prevention that allow trapped moisture to escape. Bonus: they’re also less likely to puff up like a parachute in the wind.
- Use Protective Add-ons
Things like parasol covers and outdoor TV covers are often neglected; but just as vulnerable. Keeping these protected with breathable, mould-resistant materials helps them last longer and stay cleaner.
- Keep It Dry
Obvious? Yes. Easy? Not always. But if you can, wait until your furniture is completely dry before covering it. And after a downpour, whip the covers off and let everything air out in the sunshine.
- Store Smart
When the season’s over, don’t just stuff your covers into a damp shed. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated area. If possible, hang them up or keep them in breathable storage bags.
Best Way to Clean Mold from Garden Furniture Covers
Caught the problem a bit late? Don’t panic. Here’s how to deal with it:
- White Vinegar & Water: A natural winner against mould on garden furniture covers. Spray it on, let it sit, then scrub away.
- Bicarbonate of Soda Paste: Spot treatment at its finest. Let it dry, then rinse.
- Mild Detergent & Warm Water: Ideal for general grime and surface cleaning.
- Commercial Mould Removers: Loads of safe options exist for outdoor cushion covers and patio furniture covers; just test a small area first.
- For stubborn cases, check out mildew stain removal from cushions guides or call in the experts. No judgement: we’ve all been there.
Cover Smarter, Not Harder
A few small tweaks can make all the difference between covers that last for years and ones that end up in the bin. Whether it’s for your island kitchen setup, BBQ station or L-shaped sectional, going for breathable, high-quality materials and cleaning them regularly is the way forward.
So go on; keep your patio pristine and your covers mould-free. Because the only thing sprouting in your garden should be compliments: not fungi.
Explore Covers&All’s full range of made-to-measure waterproof covers, heavy duty tarpaulins, and all-weather gear designed to protect everything in your outdoor space: from garden chair covers to sun shade sails.
Say goodbye to mould, and hello to stress-free protection with Covers&All.
Recent Comments