How to keep your awning looking like new
Temperatures are rising and summer is just around the corner. We are more than ready for some outdoor fun. Practical aids such as awnings and sunshades that help protect us against the harmful rays of the sun are a real godsend. To ensure your awning stays in top condition for as long as possible, proper care is always the way to go.
Sunshade textiles are high performance products. They combine aesthetics with high tech and functionality. The technical textiles used are particularly sturdy, UV certified and enjoy a very long service life. This notwithstanding, there may be times when the dirt sticks to the fabric tarnishing its pristine, new look. Awnings can get dirty quickly or slowly depending on the weather. That is why you should always retract the awning in strong winds and before every downpour, at the latest. You should also regularly clear away any leaves and dust off the awning fabric. A thorough clean is also recommended once a year as a minimum. This will safeguard its overall aesthetic look and protective properties.
Preparation
It is worth looking at the weather forecast before you start cleaning your awning. The fabric will need a little time to dry, so you should schedule the cleaning before a dry, sunny spell of at least a few days. First remove any loose debris or dirt. Next moisten the awning fabric with clear, clean water from the garden hose. Do not use too high a pressure on the fabric, otherwise you might damage it.
Do not try to dry brush the stains out as you risk engraining the dirt into the fibres and getting it trapped in between the fibres.
Cleaning
Newer and light stains can be treated with a mild soapy solution made up of 5-10% mild detergent and lukewarm water (max. 40°C). Lather the solution and apply it to the stain with a sponge. Leave it to soak for approx. 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water until all the soap is gone. Repeat the above steps until the stain is no longer visible. After the fabric has been cleaned with water, it is essential that the clean fabric is completely dry before being retracted. If it isn’t, water stains will appear and you run the risk of mould and mildew forming.
