Nowadays you can find parasols in all sorts of formats, colours and styles. You probably have one in your garden too. Parasols are wonderful, but they do need some love and attention. In this blog you'll discover everything about the characteristics of parasols, how best to maintain and clean them, and how heavy a parasol base needs to be to keep your parasol firmly in place. Read on quickly for handy tips and facts!
Characteristics of garden parasols
A garden parasol has several characteristics:
- Protection: On a sunny day we like to spend the whole day outdoors. But too much sun isn't good for our skin. A parasol provides the solution by creating shade and protecting us from harmful rays. This way we can responsibly enjoy outdoor life all day long!
- Ambiance: A parasol also brings cosiness to the garden. At Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture you'll find not only neutral parasols but also colourful ones that brighten up your garden in no time and create a cheerful atmosphere.
- Heat: After a warm summer day, it can cool down considerably in the evening. A parasol that has been in the sun all day retains heat and ensures that you can sit comfortably outside even in the evening hours. With a heater nearby it becomes even cosier, and you can enjoy your parasol well into the night.
- Colour change: The sun can cause the fabric of your parasol to fade. Dark fabrics fade faster than lighter ones, but this actually gives your parasol a unique, weathered charm.
Can you leave a garden parasol out in the rain?
The answer is yes, but with a few caveats. Most garden parasols are designed to withstand a light shower. However, it's advisable to close and store your parasol during heavy rain or storms. This prevents damage to the fabric and frame, and extends the life of your parasol. Don't have storage space? Then consider a protective cover. This way your parasol stays in top condition even during wet days and you can enjoy it for longer!
Cleaning your garden parasol
Use the cleaner if your garden parasol is dirty or has stains that won't come out. First test for colour fastness on an inconspicuous spot.
Step 1: Dampen the material to be cleaned with water.
Step 2: Spray the cleaner on the dampened surface.
Step 3: Let the cleaner soak in for 3 to 10 minutes, depending on how dirty it is.
Step 4: Remove the dirt with a soft scouring sponge.
Step 5: Rinse with clean water and let dry. Repeat if necessary for stubborn stains and extend the soaking time slightly.
Your garden parasol is now clean and ready to use. For extra protection you can apply the Textile & Rope protector.
Protecting your garden parasol against dirt and stains
Use the protector to protect your garden parasol against dirt and stains. Is your parasol dirty? Clean it first, for example with the Textile & Rope cleaner.
Step 1: Make sure the garden parasol is completely dry and shake the protector well before use.
Step 2: Spray a generous layer onto the parasol until it is completely saturated.
Step 3: Let the garden parasol dry completely. One application is usually sufficient.
You can also clean your parasol with lukewarm water and green soap, but for the best results I recommend a textile & rope cleaner.
Want to buy a parasol and want to know what to look for? Then read this article!
Maintaining garden parasols
Of course you want to enjoy your garden parasol for as long as possible. To achieve this, it's important to use a protective cover. This cover protects your parasol from rain, preventing weather and mould spots from forming that are difficult to remove. Make sure you store the garden parasol dry in the cover.
The cover also protects your garden parasol from discolouration caused by the sun. When the garden parasol is open, it can fade evenly, but when closed, unsightly stripes can form. You can prevent this with a protective cover.
During the winter months, it's wise to store your garden parasol in a dry place. Don't have the space? Then leave it outside in the protective cover. A garden parasol can handle a few raindrops, but it's not an umbrella. In heavy rain or an approaching shower, close the garden parasol and zip the cover around it. This way your garden parasol stays looking good for longer and you can enjoy it for years to come!
Also read: How do I protect my parasol? and Buying a parasol: What should I look out for
