How To Effectively Clean Your Awning?

Awnings are definitely going to get dirty since they are always outside. The sun is going to fade them, dust from the wind will fall on the surface and make it dirty. Birds and other animals such as mice might parch on it and leave their droppings there. It is thus important to do clean it regularly and efficiently. This makes it last longer and stain free. You may find that are several tough stains on your awning. Luckily, there are several detergents in the market to take care of them. With the right cleaning agents and procedures, you will definitely come up with a clean awning.

You would need to have a ladder, a long handled broom, a soft brush, a hosepipe, detergent, a basin, water and a spray bottle.
 If you are cleaning a caravan awning, you could disassemble it and clean it on a clean floor. For mounted awnings, a ladder would help you reach the top and all the corners.

Start by clearing all the hanging plants on the awning.
 Due to dust and dampness, you may find some growing plants all over. Be careful not to poke holes when removing these plants since some may have had roots deep into the fabric. Use a long broom to sweep away dust and objects that might be on the surface. This could be leaves, twigs and paper blown by wind.

Start by mixing a cleaning detergent into a basin.
 Dishwashing liquid may do well. Avoid very harsh solutions and bleaches as they may destroy the fabric of the material. Ensure you have put the required proportions for it to be effective. After you are done mixing, put it in a spray bottle.

Spay a small area of the awning and gently clean it with a soft bristled brush.
 It is good to start from the bottom way up. Ensure that the ladder is in place and stable to avoid risking falling. Continue with the process until you are done cleaning the whole material. Cleaning is best done gently and in circular motion. Scrubbing will damage the fabric.

Thoroughly rinse the awning with clean water by use of a hosepipe.
Soap residues become white patches if not completely removed. Dirty water will add dirt instead of cleaning it. Check for any resistant stains. Depending on the awning material and the type of stain, you may need to use varied procedures. The most common stains are paint and mould stains. Paint can be removed by use of a solvent such as mineral spirit. The normal detergent can clean mould stains.

Start cleaning the underside with a bloom to remove solid dirt particles.
Use the procedure above to clean out all dirt. Use the hand broom for any area that you cannot reach. Thoroughly rinse the underside with water.

Allow the awning to dry. Ensure that it is not exposed to dust, as dust will stick to a damp material.
 Once it is dry, spray it with a water repellent to extend its life. There are other sealants and UV protectors in the market. They are meant to extend its life. Ensure that your product is recommended for the type of your awning.