Last month we talked a little about all the different types of umbrellasthat All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings has to offer, as well as what their different featured entailed. This month I think it is important to go over outdoor patio umbrella maintenance, something that many people neglect. There are many reasons why regularly cleaning and maintaining your patio umbrella is important. The most important reason is to insure that you get your full money’s worth. Taking proper care of your patio umbrella will prolong its life by many years. Umbrellas have a tough life if you really think about it. They have to endure much wear and tear from all types of weather conditions. Harsh sunlight, winds, heavy rain, and of course dust! Some people even leave their umbrellas out during the winter so we mind as well add snow to that mix as well. As you can probably imagine, these conditions dry out, wear down and dirty your patio umbrella overtime, causing pre-mature rips, extreme fabric fading and warped or rusted structural damage. Tips for reducing weather related wear and tear:

1. Always close your umbrella when it is not in use. This will minimize full sun exposure, reducing fabric color fading.
2. Bring your umbrella inside if you know it is going to rain.
3. Do not leave your umbrella outside during the winter months, especially in climates where it snows and freezes.
4. Cover or bring in umbrellas during very windy days.

Tips for cleaning your patio umbrella: The best way to clean your umbrella is with your garden hose.

1. Lay your open umbrella onto a sheet or tarp so that the umbrella does not touch the ground. It is best to do this on concrete so that the ground underneath does not become mud.
2. After you complete this, hose your canopy down. This will loosen any dust and dirt that has built up in the fabric.
3. Fill up a bucket of warm water. Add a touch of mild soup. With a washcloth or rag, gently scrub the entire umbrella. Give special attention to any stains.
4. Hose off umbrella to remove any soap or left over dirt.
5. To dry. Simply set umbrella into the sun.

Looking for a new patio umbrella? All American Fine Outdoor Furniture offers many types of patio umbrellas to fit your needs! Give us a call at 1.877.930.7070, visit our website or come in to any of our Arizona locations!