Outdoor Patio Umbrellas – The Ultimate Outdoor Patio Umbrella for your Backyard

How to Choose the Perfect Outdoor Patio Umbrella Design

There are so many different styles of outdoor patio umbrellas available today, and choosing one can be overwhelming. Here’s what you need to consider before buying one.

What is the best outdoor patio umbrella?

You’ll find that there are two main types of outdoor patio umbrellas: center pole  and cantilever, aka offset. Center pole are umbrellas are easy to put up and down and also easier to move from place to place . They simply open up when you need them and close back down when you’re done. Cantilever umbrellas are usually heavier and have larger base system and may require some assembly. We care a full line of Cantilever umbrellas, click to see our collection.

How to Clean an Outdoor Patio Umbrella

If you own an outdoor patio umbrella, chances are you’ve had to clean it at one point or another. Here’s how to do it properly so you won’t damage your umbrella.

Follow these steps if your outdoor umbrella gets dirty or has unsightly mildew or mold stains to get your umbrella looking like new again.

• Using a soft bristle brush, remove any loose dirt, leaves and other debris.
• Make a cleaning solution by diluting a gentle laundry detergent in warm water and using the soft bristle brush to clean the umbrella fabric working in small areas in circular motions.
• Once you’ve cleaned the umbrella’s entire surface area, allow to sit for 15 minutes to loosen the dirt and grime.
• Rinse the surface well with a hose or a clean bucket of water, to make sure you remove any soap residue.
• Allow the umbrella fabric to dry well in a sunny area before storing away.

What can I do about Mildew and Mold? 

Outdoor umbrellas are prone to mold and mildew growth,  especially if they are left outdoors year round or if stored away when still wet or damp. To remove mildew or mold  from an outdoor patio umbrella follow these steps:

• If your bamboo or teak umbrella has mold on the frame or ribs try Golden Care Teck Protector
• For the canopy using a soft bristle brush, remove any loose dirt and scrub the areas with mold or mildew well.
• Mix white vinegar and warm water of equal parts in a bucket.  Using the brush, dip it into the solution and work it into the umbrella fabric (canvas) in small areas in a circular motion.
• Continue until the mold and mildew are gone.
• Rinse the surface off with a hose or clean bucket of water and allow to completely dry in the sun.
• If required, follow the above steps for a general clean.

Can I Wash my Patio Umbrella Canopy in a Washing Machine? 

If you have a large capacity machine, and are able to remove the canopy from the umbrella frame, you can wash your canopy in your washing machine, Cold water only. Depending on wash load size, use normal amounts of mild laundry detergent and add 8 ounces (1 cup) of bleach.

Air dry only, do not  put the canopy in the dryer. Allow the canopy to fully dry in the sun. You can put the cleaned canopy on the frame while still damp to allow it to dry taut.

How to Maintain an Outdoor Patio Umbrella

If you’re looking for a durable and attractive outdoor patio umbrella, consider purchasing one with a Sunbrella® canopy. These umbrellas are designed with UV protection and water repellent properties, making them ideal for protecting you from the elements. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can easily find one that matches your home’s décor. Most of our Galtech line have Sunbrella canopies and Sunbrella canopies can be special ordered with all our Bambrella umbrellas as well.