What Is the Best Way to Clean Window or Patio Awnings?

Installing window or patio awnings on your home or commercial property can provide much-needed shade from the scorching sun. Awnings also add character and curb appeal to what may be an otherwise bland Phoenix home or business exterior.

However, to maintain their beauty, you need to periodically clean your awnings. This will not only make your awning fabrics look good but will help to maintain or maybe even prolong their lifespan.

How to Clean Your Awnings When They’re a Little Dirty

Ideally, you should clean your residential awnings at least once a year. Commercial awnings may need more frequent cleanings depending on where they’re located. Monsoon dust storms in Phoenix may justify additional cleanings of both residential and commercial awnings.

For a general cleaning of your awnings, follow these steps:

1. Sweep off any dirt, dust or debris that has accumulated on your awning with a broom. If you can’t reach the awning, use a ladder or step stool. Most professionally installed awnings shouldn’t be removed for cleaning.
2. Spray the fabric with a garden hose to loosen stubborn grime. Start at the top of the awning and work your way down. Make sure the water pressure isn’t too strong, otherwise you might end up damaging the fabric.
3. Make a cleaning solution of water and mild soap with a ratio of one-fourth cup of soap per one gallon of water. Using a soft brush, cloth or sponge, clean the awning with the solution and allow it to penetrate the fabric.
4. Rinse your awning with clean, lukewarm water. Make sure you thoroughly rinse off the entire awning, including the underside and valance.
5. Let your awnings air dry. If you’re cleaning retractable awnings, make sure to let them dry before you retract them. Allowing your awnings sufficient time to dry will keep them safe from mold.

How to Clean Awnings With Stubborn Stains

Awnings that haven’t been cleaned for a long time can host a lot of difficult-to-treat substances, like mold, mildew, bird droppings and grease from outdoor cooking. These types of stubborn stains will require a little more effort to get them off your awnings.

Removing Mold and Mildew

To remove mold and mildew stains, make a solution of one-fourth cup of soap and one cup of non-chlorine bleach per one gallon of water. Apply the mixture on the affected areas and allow it to soak for no longer than 15 minutes. Proceed by cleaning the stains with a soft brittle brush. Thoroughly rinse the awning and allow sufficient time to airdry.

Removing Bird Droppings and Grease

To remove bird droppings and grease from your awning, scrub them with a solution of dish soap and water and a soft-brittle brush. You can use the same ratio of soap to water as you would for a general cleaning. Allow 15 minutes for the mixture to break down the stains before thoroughly rinsing.

Is Bleach Safe for My Fabric Awnings?

Bleach is safe for cleaning your awnings as long as you make sure to:

• Dilute it with plenty of water (one cup of bleach per one gallon of water)
• Use color-safe, non-chlorine bleach
• Thoroughly rinse your awning after treatment

At Arizona Awnings, we offer a selection of high-quality awning fabrics that have a reputation for being mold and mildew resistant, so you likely won’t have to worry about removing these unsightly stains.

How to Clean Your Awning’s Non-Fabric Parts

Your awnings aren’t just colorful fabrics. When cleaning retractable awnings, you shouldn’t skip the moving parts, such as joints, arms and rollers. To keep these parts in top-notch shape, do the following every time you clean your awnings:

• Sweep off dust and debris with a broom
• Rinse the parts with lukewarm water
• Lubricate moving parts with silicone spray (you don’t need to do this every time you clean your awning; once a year should be good enough)
• Treat rust and corrosion with a lubricant or white vinegar and wipe it off with a cloth or paper towel (do so only when needed)

At Arizona Awnings, we offer residential and commercial awnings tailored to your unique needs. Our commitment to crafting and installing high-quality awning solutions makes us a popular choice among Phoenix homeowners and commercial clients.

For more information, including a free estimate, call (602) 252-3430.