Sunbrella Furniture Fabric

Sunbrella

Sunbrella is a fabric used for outdoor furniture, boats, awnings, and outdoor graphics.  It’s best two points are that it is fade proof and stain resistant.  There is also a fire resistant Sunbrellas called Firesist.

Look for Sunbrella when buying outdoor furniture.  It is known for its high quality and outdoor durability.   

Warranty

Sunbrella manufacturing company warranties the fabric for up to three years.  You must have a copy of the invoice with the original date of purchase.  For problems, contact your retailer and they will contact the manufacturer.  If the fabric is covered, it will be replaced free of charge.  This is the best warranty in the industry of outdoor fabric.

Water Repellency

Sunbrella is not waterproof.  It is breathable and that creates microscopic holes.  It is, however, water resistant. You need to apply a new water repellent finish every 2-3 years.  You can obtain the official Sunbrella application from http://www.303products.com   

Mildew

Sunbrella is highly resistant to mildew.  It is important to keep the material clean because organic matter can grow mildew on anything.  Sunbrella can handle bleach and other household cleaning materials.  If mildew does occur, cleaning is a snap.  Natural and mild soap rinse out easily and don’t harm the water resistant finish.      

How to Clean

The easiest way to clean Sunbrella is to hose it down with a hose.  According to Sunbrella you should hose down the fabric monthly.  This practice will keep the material looking clean and eliminate future more difficult cleanings.  In any case, you will still need to clean the material by hand every few years.  After hosing down fabric make sure you let it dry out properly.

What Products Does Sunbrella Recommend for Cleaning?

A: For those stains that are beyond our normal care and cleaning instructions, such as bird droppings, roof run-off, acid rain, pollution, rust, tree sap, insect stains, etc., we suggest the following products: an off-the-shelf product such as Goo Gone Grease Cutter (a hand cleaner), Greased Lightning, Clean Rite Purple Power (available at Wal-Mart, K-Mart, etc.) or Release (available through Awning Rejuvenation Systems International in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; 800.776.5664). Rub product into fabric, allowing penetration. Brush with a soft brush, rinse THOROUGHLY and repeat if necessary.

UV Protection

Sunbrella provides 98% UV protection.

Where to Find Awnings Made of Sunbrella

Specialty garden stores and big box retailers carry Sunbrella fabric.  Check for the name on the fabric tag to know if it is Sunbrella.