Sunbrella Stain Removal Guide

Sunbrella Stain Removal Guide

Sunbrella fabrics are known for their durability and resistance to outdoor elements, but even the toughest fabrics can encounter stains. Whether it's a spilled drink, a smudge of paint, or a stubborn mark, knowing the right stain removal techniques can help you keep your Sunbrella fabric looking fresh and clean. In this comprehensive guide, we provide step-by-step instructions and recommended cleaning solutions to tackle a wide range of stains. From fresh spills to older, more stubborn marks, you'll find the necessary information to effectively remove stains from your Sunbrella fabric. By following these guidelines, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your Sunbrella products. Let's dive into the Sunbrella Stain Removal Guide and discover how to keep your fabric looking its best!


Fresh Stains

If the stain is fresh, follow these steps for effective stain removal:

  1. Blotting: Do not rub the stain, as it may spread further. Instead, blot the stain gently with a dry cloth to absorb as much of the substance as possible.
  2. Oil-Based Stains: For oil-based stains, sprinkle an absorbent substance such as corn starch onto the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then carefully remove it using a straight edge, like a spatula.
  3. Cleaning Solution: Prepare a mild cleaning solution using a soap like Dawn or Woolite, mixed with water. Spray the solution onto the stained area.
  4. Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the fabric to eliminate any soap residue. This step is crucial to prevent staining or discoloration.
  5. Air Drying: Allow the fabric to air dry completely. Avoid tumble drying, as heat can set the stain and make it harder to remove.


For older or tougher stains, please refer to the chart below for specific cleaning solutions.

Stain Removal Chart

For more challenging stains, use the recommended cleaning solutions listed below:

Type of Stain

Recommended Cleaning Solution

Mildew

Bleach (1 Cup) / 2 oz Dawn® Dishwashing Liquid / 1 gallon water

Milk

2 oz Dawn® Dishwashing Liquid / 1 gallon water

Nail Polish

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Oil

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Paint (Latex) Wet

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Paint (Latex) Dried

Paint remover (100%), oil or grease remover (mix as directed)

Paint (oil or lacquered)

Paint remover (100%), oil or grease remover (mix as directed)

Shoe Polish

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Show Polish (wax)

apply heated iron over towel, Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Soda

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Suntan Lotion

Pine Power® or pine oil detergent / water (mix as directed)

Tea

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Tomato Juice

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Tree Sap

Turpentine (100%), Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Urine

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Vomit

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Watercolor

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Wax (candle)

Apply heated iron over towel, Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Wine

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / ammonia (4-8 oz.) / white vinegar (3 oz.)

Beer

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / white vinegar (3 oz.)

Berry

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / ammonia (4-8 oz.)

Bird Droppings

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / or try Goo Gone Grease Cutter (a hand cleaner), Greased Lightning, or Clean Rite Purple Power (available at Walmart, K-Mart, etc.)

Blood (dried)

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / ammonia (4-8 oz.)

Butter

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Charcoal, Pencil markings

Vacuum, then Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Chewing Gum

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Chocolate

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / ammonia (4-8 oz.)

Coffee

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water / white vinegar / volatile solvent (acetone)

Crayon

Paint remover (100%), oil or grease remover (mix as directed)

Egg (raw)

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Grape Juice

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Gravy

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Grease (Car)

Volatile solvent (acetone) 100%

Ink (permanent/in-dia/ballpoint)

Paint remover (100%), volatile solvent (acetone) 100%, soap and water

Iron Rust

Carbonatm Stain Devil #9

Ketchup/Mustard

Dawn® dishwashing liquid (2 oz.) / 1 gallon water

Lipstick

Paint remover, oil or grease remover (mix as directed)