Outdoor Patio Umbrella Care

Aluminum Frame Umbrellas

With simple, regular maintenance and care, aluminum patio umbrellas will provide years of enjoyment. Occasional cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by rinsing and a thorough drying with a towel is typically all that is required. Do not use any abrasive materials, cleansers or bleach products as these may damage the finish. You should avoid allowing dirt to build up on the metal frames, as this may cause it to become more difficult to remove over time.

If you notice calcium build-up on your patio umbrella frame, you can try using a solution of 1 part white distilled vinegar and 9 part water to help remove it. Before you apply your solution, you should always test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the frame before applying to ensure it doesn’t discolor the finish.

Wood Frame Umbrellas

Depending on the type of wood pole umbrella you have, cleaning instructions can vary. For most wood umbrellas, using a mixture of mild detergent and water along with a cloth or soft bristle brush will suffice. For more specific instructions, you should consult the manufacturer of your umbrella or the retailer where you purchased it.

Cleaning Umbrella Fabric

Most umbrella canopies are made using Sunbrella fabric, and therefore you should follow our Sunbrella fabric care instructions. If you do not have Sunbrella fabric or are unsure of your fabric material, please consult your retail store or manufacturer for cleaning information.

Preventative Maintenance For Outdoor Patio Umbrellas

Aside from periodic cleaning, there is very little maintenance required for outdoor umbrellas. As a general rule, you should always keep your umbrella collapsed when not in use or during windy days. Most umbrella manufacturers will exclude wind damage from their warranties.

To keep your patio umbrella looking its best, you may wish to store or cover it when not in use for an extended period of time.