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Cleaning tips: Cleaning awnings and parasols

Awnings are your best friend in summer. They save you from sunburn and keep you dry when it rains on warm summer days - just extend them, and you're done. Sunshades provide similar benefits. They offer protection from the sun and from unwanted glances by the neighbours. But what if awnings and parasols have been exposed to the weather for some time and are starting to show signs of soiling? Do they have to be replaced immediately, or can you still save them?

Awnings: Care and cleaning

If you have an awning in your garden, then you should think about how best to keep it clean. To make the task easier for you, here are a few tips on how you should proceed and what you should bear in mind.

When is it time for a cleaning?

When the first signs of wear and tear appear, it is not necessary to replace the awning fabric immediately. Rather clean it thoroughly first. To prevent heavy soiling, you should do this once a year, before summer begins. It is also important to act quickly if you discover traces of mould. In general, awnings made of synthetic material are easier to care for than those made of naturally occurring fabrics. It’s also important to remember to impregnate your awning every few years after cleaning it.

What is the best way to clean your awning?

Keep your awning in place whilst you are cleaning it. You only need to extend it completely once, so that you can reach everywhere. Before you do this, you should clean the frame thoroughly. It is best to use a sponge and soapy water. You can then take care of the awning yourself. First, you should sweep or vacuum it to remove most of the dirt, then briefly rinse with water and finally wipe both sides with soap and water. Leave everything to fully dry, then you can retract the awning again.

What to do in case of heavy stains and mould?

If your awning has heavy stains that cannot be removed through a general cleaning, it is recommended that you remove and gently clean them by hand using a mild detergent. However, if mould stains have already formed, you will need to use slightly harsher products. A special cleaning agent, which you can obtain from a DIY store, is the best option. If you’d like a gentler option, you can also use a mixture of vinegar and water. Try to treat the stains selectively to avoid damage.

If mould stains have formed, it becomes a little more complicated because nould is generally difficult to remove. In this case, you have the option of using a special cleaning agent directly or trying a household product. You can apply a mixture of water and a little baking powder and wash it off again after letting it soak for about half an hour.

Can rapid wear and tear be prevented?

Firstly, you should not forget that impregnating your awning is important and that regular, thorough cleaning is a good basis for long-lasting sun protection. It is also helpful to retract your awning instead of leaving it open in every possible weather condition. It will then be able to withstand the full force of all weather conditions, and signs of wear will not appear so quickly. Good preventative care is important and will pay off.

Parasols: Care and cleaning

Just like awnings, parasols can have a long life, beautify your garden or balcony and protect you from the hot midday sun. But they also need some care and should be cleaned regularly.

When is the best time to clean your parasol?

The good news is that there is no right or wrong time to clean your parasol. You can clean it in summer and leave it to dry in the sun or before you take it back to the cellar where it will stay until next summer. It is only important that it is completely dry again before storage to prevent mould and mildew.

How do you clean a sunshade properly?

You can sweep off leaves and superficial dirt quickly and easily. However, if stains have formed, they should be brushed out carefully with a soft brush and a little water. For heavier soiling, you can use a mild detergent. You can easily clean the frame of the umbrella with a cloth and a little water.

Cleaning umbrellas and awnings, but isn't that dangerous?

Both parasols and awnings require the use of a ladder to clean them properly. To avoid the safety risk, you shouldn’t resort to improvised climbing aids such as tables or chairs but use a stable ladder. At HAILO, you will find suitable ladders, satisfactory in both quality and stability. Thanks to the HAILO L80 ComfortLine’s extra-wide and non-slip steps, you minimise the risk of an accident when cleaning your awning or parasol. Your awning will look brand new again for the coming summer season, and you’ll have achieved this without placing yourself in danger!

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