Retractable Awnings Cleaning Information

Sunbrella fabric should be cleaned regularly before substances such as dirt, roof particles, etc. are allowed to accumulate on and become embedded in the fabric. The fabric can be cleaned without being removed from the frame of the retractable awnings patio covers. Simply brush off any loose dirt, roof particles etc. hose down and clean with a mild natural soap in lukewarm water (no more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.) Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. DO NOT USE DETERGENTS!

For stubborn stains on Sunbrella retractable awnings soak the fabric for approximately 20 minutes in a solution of no more than ½ cup (4 oz.) of bleach and ¼ cup (2 oz.) natural soap per gallon of water at approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse thoroughly in cold water to remove all the soap. Note: Excessive soaking in bleach can deteriorate sewing threads. This method of cleaning may remove part of the water repellency. Following a thorough cleaning, and when water repellency is a factor, the fabric should receive an application of an air-curing retreatment, such as 303 Hi Tech Fabric Guard or similar product.

Sunbrella retractable awnings may be dry cleaned but a water repellent treatment must be applied to the fabric after dry cleaning to reestablish water repellency. Sunbrella is made from 100% acrylic fiber and is thermoplastic or heat sensitive. When washing or cleaning, DO NOT subject to excessive heat as the fabric will shrink. DO NOT steam press or dry in electric or gas dryers. Allow fabric to air dry.

In cases where Sunbrella retractable awnings are taken down and stored during the winter season, it should be cleaned, allowed to air dry, and stored in a dry, well ventilated area.

For standard maintenance on Dickson retractable awnings patio covers brush off any loose dirt. Clean fabric with a mixture of warm water and a mild soap (i.e. Ivory) mixed in a gallon of water. Use a 2" soft bristle nylon brush to gently scrub. Rinse fabric thoroughly with plenty of cool water. Continue to rinse until all soap residues are gone. If water repellency is an issue, apply an air-curling fluorocarbon water repellent treatment. Note: DO NOT use a pressure washer to clean Dickson fabric. This will damage the acrylic fabric.

For stubborn stains on Dickson retractable awnings a general solution of no more than ½ cup (4 oz.) of bleach (Clorox) and ¼ cup (2 oz.) of natural soap per gallon of water is normally recommended. The fabric should be soaked in this mixture for no more than 20 minutes. Excessive soaking in bleach can deteriorate sewing threads. The fabric should be rinsed thoroughly in cold water to remove all of the soap. If water repellency is an issue, apply an air-curling fluorocarbon water repellent treatment.

If the retractable awnings are retracted while wet, open as quickly as possible and allow the fabric to dry. Although the fabric is mold, mildew and rot proof, this procedure is necessary because atmospheric pollution deposits on the surface of the fabric can mold and mildew under damp conditions.

Gottschalk Planasol fabric is treated with Scotchgard protection and thus offers you exceptional quality. As a result of it’s protective properties the retractable awnings fabric is kept looking newer for longer. However, it still requires regular care and maintenance. Scotchgard protection provides high water repellency. It gives lasting protection even after repeated use. Do not roll up the retractable awnings when wet unless this is unavoidable and then unroll as soon as possible for drying.

Grease and oil stains can be removed from the retractable awnings fabric by using turpentine or similar and an absorbent cloth. Clean up spills and stains right away. Spills can be removed by using a clean absorbent cloth. Use a soft brush to remove dust and dry soil or wash down with water using a garden hose.

Allow the fabric to dry naturally before rolling up the retractable awnings. If thorough cleaning is necessary, sponge over the retractable awnings using a soap solution (2% solution e.g. Persil). Rinse well with plenty of water to remove all soap residues.

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