Awnings add the perfect finishing detail to your home or business. They are crisp and colorful when first installed and you will want to keep them that way. There are, however, some do’s and don'ts that you should be aware of before cleaning your awnings.

How Often Should Awnings Be Cleaned?

The location of your home or business determines how often you should clean your awnings. If you are located near a main road or a farmer's field, your awnings will get dusty quite often. You might want to consider having them cleaned monthly.

If dust and debris are not a problem, you can clean your awnings once or twice a year, typically spring and fall. It should be noted, however, that some items need to be cleaned up immediately to prevent staining and permanent damage to the awning material, like bird droppings and eggs.

What Is the Best Way to Clean Awnings?

Start by removing any loose dirt and debris with a soft bristle brush or broom. After removing as much as possible, use a mild detergent and water to gently scrub the awning material. Do not apply too much pressure as you do not want to tear, dimple, or otherwise damage the awning fabric. Let the awnings dry naturally.

How Do You Remove Organic Debris?

If your home or business has been egged before, you know how difficult it can be to remove everything after the attack and how imperative it is to do so immediately. After cleaning with mild soap and water, try spot cleaning the stubborn areas with vinegar. Bird droppings can be approached the same way. You might take several attempts at cleaning before you remove everything. Be patient.

How Do You Clean Mold Off Awnings?

If you notice gray dots on the surface of the awning fabric after cleaning, they are likely mold or mildew. Mold is difficult to remove with just soap and water. You can try a solution of bleach and water or vinegar and water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. Awning fabrics and any printed signage should be color-fast and not damaged by the bleach.

Do not use harsh chemicals, however, without consulting the fabric manufacturer. 

How Do You Clean Algae Off Awnings?

Like mold, algae will not come off with a simple soap and water wash. You need a little more power and elbow grease to get the green slime off your awning. A solution of hydrogen peroxide and water is particularly effective in fighting algae. Again, be sure to rinse thoroughly.

Should I Have My Awnings Professionally Cleaned?

You can have your awnings professionally cleaned. Many window cleaners and janitorial companies offer awning cleaning as a regular service. Make sure to ask if they are insured against damage to the awnings and ask for a copy of their insurance.

Can You Pressure Wash an Awning?

Pressure washing is never recommended for awnings. It uses a highly pressurized water spray that is designed to remove dirt and debris forcefully. While sturdy and able to withstand the elements for years, awnings are not meant to be hit with excessive PSI (pounds per square inch of pressure) from a pressure washer. Even if the awning survives the episode, the fabric may have suffered excessive wear and tear unnecessarily.

What Is a Soft Wash?

Soft wash is a low-pressure option. The machinery looks similar to a power washer but is much gentler on the awning. Unlike a pressure washer, the PSI from a soft wash system is quite low. Soft wash systems are often used on roofs, window screens, and awnings.

Awnings add to the overall appearance of your home or business. Cleaning them — the right way — can keep them looking good and preserve their appearance over time. If you have any questions on how to clean your awnings, contact Lexington Tent & Awning Company.