Awning & Patio Screen Fabric Care & Cleaning Guide
Awning & Patio Screen Fabric Care and Cleaning Instructions
Keeping your awning and patio screen fabric clean is the easiest way to protect it from mold, mildew, and UV damage. Below are manufacturer-approved cleaning steps for retractable awnings, patio screens, and interior shades — plus care guides for Sunbrella, Textilene, and Recacril fabrics
Fabric Care & Cleaning Instructions
- When you first get your screen installed, the fabric may not be wrinkle-free. This is normal and will lessen with use of the unit.
- Be sure to keep the fabric clean and dry. This is the best protection against mold and mildew.
- Use a mild soap with a soft brush, but rinse thoroughly and immediately.
- Hose down the screen with clean water every few months or so. We recommend that you do this on a hot, sunny day to allow the fabric to dry out before rolling back up.
- Do not leave your screen unattended. Wind damage is possible and is not covered under warranty.
- Add Phifer Suntex Cleaning and Warranty Guide (PDF)
- TEXTILENE Fabric Care and Maintenance (PDF)
Quick Answers: Screen Care FAQs
How often should I clean my patio screen?
Hose it down with clean water every few months, ideally on a hot, sunny day so the fabric can fully dry before rolling back up.
How do I prevent mold and mildew on screen fabric?
Keep the fabric clean and completely dry between uses — trapped moisture is the main cause of mold and mildew.
Is wind damage to my screen covered under warranty?
No. Leaving the screen extended and unattended in high wind can cause damage, and that's not covered under warranty.
- DO keep your awning clean, this is the best protection against mold and mildew. Even on mildew-resistant fabric, mildew can grow on accumulated dirt/foreign objects remaining on the top or bottom of the surface. This will eventually damage or stain the fabric.
- DO wash down your awning. You can use a mild soap, but rinse thoroughly and immediately.
- DO hose down the screen with clean water every few months or so. We recommend that you do this on a hot, sunny day to allow the fabric to dry out before rolling back up.
- DO keep the underside of your awning clean by simply brushing with a clean household broom.
- DO keep shrubbery and vines away from your awning, as many plants contain an acid that can be harmful to your awning.
- DO check the condition of the awning frame every once in awhile. Rust is not likely to form, but if it should, it might cause deterioration.
- DON’T get insect spray on the fabric, as some solutions may cause staining.
- DON’T allow water to stand on your awning! The water can pocket and possibly stretch the fabric, or worse.
- DON’T cook, barbeque or have fires beneath your extended awning. Fire and smoke can damage the awning and fabric.
- DON’T allow leaves, twigs or dirt to remain on your awning, as they might cause staining of the fabric.
- DON’T force or yank on your awning when operating the unit, as this can cause damage. Always operate gradually and patiently.
- NOTICE: When you first get your awning installed, the fabric may not be wrinkle-free. This is normal and will lessen with use of the unit.
- Sunbrella Cleaning (PDF)
- Recacril Care and Cleaning (PDF)
