How to clean an awning

Would you like to clean the awning of your terrace and don't know how to do it? In this guide we show you how to clean each type of awning in a simple way.

The awning is one of the parts of the house most exposed to dirt because it is obviously located outdoors. In the summer season, it is one of the elements of the terrace or garden that we use the most, and that we must make ready for the hottest season.

The first thing we must do is have a hose at hand to remove any dust and dirt with pressurised water. If this is not possible, because you live in a block of buildings or simply don't have one, you can use a spray with water and rub it with a brush. For stains, we can use a mixture of water with neutral soap and, if they are more localised stains, use ammonia with a spray, and rub with a brush, always rinsing with water at the end.

Types of awnings and how to clean them

Canvas awnings: it is advisable to use a hoover regularly to remove dust and dirt that accumulates on the surface of the awning, and thus avoid early deterioration of the canvas. For stains, applying a grease remover is ideal, which we will leave to work for a few minutes and then rinse with water. We can also use neutral surfactant soaps, which prevent the water-repellent finish from deteriorating, using a soft brush.
Plastic awnings: it is best to use a mixture of water and grease remover, and brush gently with a fine bristle brush. Be careful with cleaning products, the plastic can dry out and deteriorate easily.

To take into account

Remember to remove dust and leaves every week. On the one hand, this will make cleaning easier, and on the other hand, it will stay like new for longer.
After removing the dust, a quick rinse with water helps to remove impurities.
Always remember to close the awning if it rains and open it once it has stopped. Keeping the awning closed and wet facilitates the appearance of mildew stains. And if you clean it, make sure it's completely dry before you roll it up.
Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
Remove the awning skirt during the months it is not in use to prevent it from deteriorating.
The brushes, sponges and rags used for cleaning must be soft and not have any hard or scratchy surface.