Common Mistakes People Make When Cleaning Awnings (And How to Avoid Them)

Awnings add beauty and shade to your outdoor space, but improper cleaning can shorten their lifespan and lead to costly damage. Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that harm their awnings rather than protect them. Here are the most common awning cleaning blunders—and how to avoid them for a longer-lasting, pristine cover.

1. Using Harsh Chemicals or Bleach

❌ Mistake: Spraying bleach, ammonia, or strong detergents to remove tough stains.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: These chemicals break down fabric fibers, cause fading, and strip protective coatings.

✅ Fix: Use a mild soap (like dish detergent) mixed with water or a pH-neutral awning cleaner. For mildew, try white vinegar diluted with water.

2. Scrubbing Too Aggressively

❌ Mistake: Using stiff brushes or abrasive scrubbers to remove stains.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: Rough scrubbing frays fabric, weakens seams, and creates micro-tears where mold can grow.

✅ Fix: Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge and gently clean in circular motions. Let the cleaner soak in first to loosen dirt.

3. Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions

❌ Mistake: Assuming all awnings can be cleaned the same way.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: Different materials (acrylic, vinyl, polyester) require specific care—using the wrong method can void warranties.

✅ Fix: Check the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines before starting. Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

4. Power Washing at High Pressure

❌ Mistake: Blasting dirt away with a pressure washer.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: High-pressure water forces dirt deeper into fabric, damages stitching, and can rip delicate materials.

✅ Fix: Use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle instead. If stains persist, hand-scrub or call a professional.

5. Letting Stains Sit Too Long

❌ Mistake: Delaying cleaning after spills, bird droppings, or pollen buildup.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: Stains set in over time, making them harder to remove and increasing the risk of mold.

✅ Fix: Spot-clean spills immediately with water and mild soap. Schedule regular cleanings (every 1-2 months in peak seasons).

6. Rolling Up a Wet Awning

❌ Mistake: Retracting the awning while it’s still damp.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: Trapped moisture breeds mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors—plus it weakens the fabric.

✅ Fix: Always let your awning dry completely before rolling it up. If rain is coming, extend it again afterward to air-dry.

7. Skipping Protective Treatments

❌ Mistake: Cleaning the awning but not applying UV or water repellent.
⚠️ Why It’s Bad: Without protection, sun and rain cause faster fading, staining, and fabric breakdown.

✅ Fix: After cleaning, apply a fabric protectant spray (like 303® Aerospace Protectant) to guard against UV rays and stains.

Need Professional Help? Trust Go Awning!

Avoid these mistakes and keep your awning in perfect shape with our expert cleaning and maintenance services. We use:
✔ Gentle, effective cleaning solutions
✔ Proper techniques for your awning type
✔ Protective treatments to extend its life

📞 Contact www.GoAwning.com today for a worry-free clean!