Care & Maintenance

Caring for and cleaning your umbrella is a simple process and will keep the umbrella looking like new throughout the years. 

The canopy and wooden frame both need routine attention.

Canopy

Cleaning Frequency

No set timetable exists for when fabric should be cleaned, and the local environment has a great deal to do with determining cleaning frequency. Cleaning is required less frequently in a dry environment than in a humid one with heavy foliage. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every one to two years.

Simple Maintenance

One of the best ways to keep the canvas looking fresh and to delay the need for deep cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply imbedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous cleanings.

Deep Cleaning

When it's time for a thorough cleaning, it is important to observe the following:

• Always use a mild soap i.e. Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite. Never detergent.
• Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never more than 100 degrees.
• Air dry only. Never apply heat to the fabrics.

If you are cleaning the fabric while still on the umbrella, follow these simple steps:

• Brush off loose dirt.
• Hose down.
• Prepare a cleaning mixture of water and mild soap (no detergents).
• Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
• Allow soap to soak in.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Air dry.

Stubborn Stains

If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off or other similar stains. Prepare a special cleaning mixture:

• Four ounces (half cup) of chlorine bleach.
• Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of mild soap.
• One gallon of water.
• Clean with soft bristle brush.
• Allow mixture to soak for up to 20 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Air dry.
• Repeat if necessary.

Re-treating the Fabric

As part of the finishing process, the fabrics are treated with a fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This finish is designed to last for several years, but must be replenished after a thorough cleaning. Based on test results, we recommend 303 High Tech Fabric Guard as the preferred re-treatment product for these fabrics. Fabrics should be retreated after thorough cleaning or after five years of use. 

Frame

The frame has five main components:

Vertical pole with metal protective sleeve at bottom. 

Runner hub - moves up and down the vertical pole and holds together the lower support ribs.

Top fixed hub - holds together the long ribs that support the canopy

Ribs of various lengths connected to these hubs

Finial - the acorn-shaped crown that screw into the top of the umbrella

 Each part should be wiped as needed with a clean damp cloth or, if more dirt has accumulated, cleaned with mild soapy water, and then dried off with a clean cloth. We don't recommend the use of any harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish of your umbrella frame. If you clean routinely, nothing more than mild soapy water will be necessary.

Any accidental scrapes or scratches on the wooden pole may be touched up with a matching wood stain and covered with marine spar varnish.

Storage

Taking extra care to store your umbrella properly will ensure longer life and keep your umbrella looking its best. If you are storing away for the off-season it is always recommended to clean the umbrella canopy according to the guidelines. Always make sure the fabric is completely dry before storing and fold carefully to avoid wrinkling the fabric. Protect it with a cover and lay on a hard, flat surface in a well-ventilated location. Be sure not to load heavy objects on top of it

A protective cover for the umbrella will prolong the life of your umbrella and keep it clean a longer period of time. See Protective covers.