How to Get Mould Off Sun Loungers

How to Get Mould Off Sun Loungers

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If you’ve left your sun loungers outside in the elements for too long, chances are they’ve accumulated some unsightly mould. Not only does this look unappealing, but it can also be a health hazard.

Fortunately, removing mould from sun loungers is a simple process that can be done with a few household items. In this article, we’ll go over how to get mould off sun loungers.

What is Mould?

Mould, also spelled as “mold,” is a type of fungus that grows in damp, warm, and humid environments.

It can grow on a variety of surfaces, including food, walls, ceilings, and furniture, and is often recognized by its characteristic fuzzy or slimy appearance.

Mould spores can cause respiratory issues and other health problems if inhaled, so it’s important to remove any mould growth as soon as possible.

What is Mildew

Mildew is a type of fungus that is closely related to mould. Like mold, it grows in damp and humid environments, and can be found on any type of surface such as walls, ceilings, sun loungers and fabrics.

Unlike mold, mildew is typically white or gray in color and has a powdery or fluffy texture. It is also less harmful to human health than some types of mold.

However, if left untreated, mildew can damage surfaces and cause unpleasant odors. Like mold, it is important to remove mildew as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

Mould and mildew are both types of fungi that thrive in damp and humid environments, but they have some differences in appearance and behavior. Here are some of the key differences between mould and mildew:

Appearance: Mould is usually fuzzy or slimy in texture and can be a variety of colors including black, green, white, or orange. Mildew, on the other hand, is typically white or gray in color and has a powdery or fluffy texture.

Growth pattern: Mould tends to grow in patches and can spread quickly if not addressed, whereas mildew often appears as a thin layer on surfaces and does not spread as easily.

Health effects: Both mould and mildew can cause respiratory issues and other health problems if inhaled, but some types of mould are more harmful than mildew.

Preferred surfaces: Mould can grow on a variety of surfaces including food, walls, ceilings, and furniture, whereas mildew is commonly found on fabrics, such as curtains, upholstery, and clothing.

Overall, while mould and mildew share some similarities, there are some differences in appearance and behavior that make them distinct from one another.

How Dangerous is Mould and Mildew on Sun Loungers?

Mould and mildew on sun loungers can pose health risks if not addressed properly. Both types of fungi can release spores into the air, which can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and allergic reactions.

In addition, some types of mould, such as black mould, can produce mycotoxins that can be harmful to human health.

If you notice mould or mildew on your sun loungers, it’s important to take steps to remove it as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further health risks.

Additionally, regularly cleaning and maintaining your sun loungers can help prevent the growth of mould and mildew in the first place.

While the presence of mould and mildew on sun loungers is not necessarily a cause for panic, it should be taken seriously and addressed promptly to protect your health and ensure the longevity of your outdoor furniture.

What Damage can Mould and Mildew do to Sun Loungers?

Mould and mildew can cause damage to sun loungers if left untreated. Here are some of the ways that mould and mildew can damage sun loungers:

Staining: Both mould and mildew can cause unsightly stains on sun loungers. These stains can be difficult to remove and may permanently discolor the fabric or surface of the sun lounger.

Weakening of the material: If left on the sun lounger for a prolonged period of time, mould and mildew can weaken the fabric or material, making it more susceptible to tearing or other damage.

Odor: Mould and mildew can create unpleasant odors that can linger on the sun lounger, even after the mould or mildew has been removed.

Health risks: As mentioned earlier, mould and mildew can release spores into the air that can be harmful to human health if inhaled. This can be a health risk for anyone who uses the sun lounger, especially those with respiratory issues or allergies.

To prevent damage to your sun loungers, it’s important to regularly clean and maintain them to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. If you do notice mould or mildew on your sun loungers, it’s important to take steps to remove it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

How to Get Mould Off Sun Loungers

Before we get started, you’ll need a few items. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Scrub brush or sponge
  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Baking soda
  • Spray bottle
  • Cling film plastic wrap
  • Towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the necessary supplies, here are the steps you’ll need to follow to get mould off your sun loungers:

Step 1: Put on Rubber Gloves

Before you begin cleaning your sun loungers, it’s important to put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from any potentially harmful chemicals.

Step 2: Mix a Cleaning Solution

Mix together equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution is a natural cleaner that is effective at removing mould and disinfecting surfaces.

Step 3: Spray the Sun Loungers

Spray the cleaning solution onto the sun loungers, making sure to cover all areas with mould. Let the solution sit for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Scrub the Sun Loungers

Using a scrub brush or sponge, scrub the sun loungers thoroughly, paying special attention to any areas with mould. Rinse with water and repeat if necessary.

Step 5: Apply Baking Soda

Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to any remaining mould spots and cover with cling film plastic wrap. Let the paste sit overnight.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

The next day, rinse the baking soda paste off with water and dry the sun loungers with a towel or let them air dry in the sun.

If you find the the mould or mildew just won’t come off your sun lounger cushions then it maybe time to replace them. Although cleaning should work, heavily soiled cushions may be past their best.

If you decide the your cushions do need replacing you can find a whole range of replacement cushions by following the link.

Tips for Preventing Mould Growth

To prevent mould from growing on your sun loungers in the future, follow these tips:

  • Store your sun loungers in a dry place when not in use.
  • Clean your sun loungers regularly with a mixture of white vinegar and water.
  • Use sun lounger covers to protect them from the elements when not in use.

Conclusion

Removing mould from sun loungers may seem like a daunting task, but with the right supplies and a little elbow grease, it’s a simple process that can be done at home. Follow the steps outlined in this article to get your sun loungers looking like new again.

The main thing to do is keep your sun loungers and cushions in a dry place when not in use and make sure you clean them regularly. To find out more about ways to clean your sun lounger cushions and to clean your sun lounger take a look at our related articles.