How to Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture Covers

An URBAN TAILOR.® cover needs very little care, but a few habits make the difference between a cover that looks new after five years and one that does not. This guide covers cleaning, storage, winter use and what to do about condensation.

How to clean an outdoor furniture cover

1. Leave the cover on the furniture or lay it flat on a clean surface.
2. Brush off loose dirt, leaves and bird droppings with a soft brush.
3. Rinse with lukewarm water. For stubborn spots use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth.
4. Rinse again with clean water and let the cover air-dry completely before storing it.

Never machine wash, tumble dry, iron or use a pressure washer, bleach or solvents. These strip the PU coating and shorten the life of the fabric.

Green deposits and moss

In shaded gardens a green film can build up on any surface, including covers. Remove it with lukewarm water, a soft brush and, if needed, a mild soap. Rinse well. Cleaning it once or twice a year is enough.

How to prevent condensation under a cover

Condensation happens when warm, damp air is trapped under a cover and cools at night. Our covers are breathable and have built-in ventilation, which solves most of it. To help further:

• Cover furniture only when it is dry.
• Leave the hem a few centimetres above the ground so air can flow underneath.
• Do not wrap the cover airtight with extra tarpaulins.
• Store cushions indoors or in a dry box during long wet periods.

Using the cover in winter

The fabric is made for year-round use, including frost and snow. Brush heavy snow off so the weight does not rest on the furniture, and check occasionally that the cover has not shifted. There is no need to take the cover off on dry winter days.

Putting the cover on and taking it off

Unfold the cover on top of the furniture and let it drop over the set in one movement. Pull the hem down evenly on all sides. To remove it, lift from one corner and fold the cover onto itself so the clean inside stays clean.

Storing the cover

When the furniture is in use, dry the cover, fold it loosely and keep it in the storage bag that comes in your Signature Case. Store it somewhere dry and out of direct sun. Do not store a wet cover in a closed bag.

Frequently asked questions about care

How often should I clean my cover?

Once or twice a year is plenty, plus a quick rinse after a very dirty period such as pollen season.

Can I re-waterproof the cover?

Not necessary during the life of the cover. The PU coating is on the inside and is not washed off by rain. Avoid spray-on impregnation products; they can affect breathability.

The cover is faded or damaged. What now?

Contact us at info@urbantailorcovers.shop with a photo and your order number. Every cover is covered by our warranty: 2 years as standard, 5 years after registration.

Also read: size guide, our fabric explained and frequently asked questions.