How to Clean Your Retractable Awning (The Right Way!)

Written By Jeff Moriarty

Your retractable awning keeps you cool and comfortable all summer long—so why not return the favor with a good cleaning? Whether you're preparing for patio season or just freshening things up, giving your awning some TLC can help extend its life and keep it looking its best.

Here’s how to clean your awning like a pro, no pressure washer or fancy tools needed!

What You’ll Need:

  • A garden hose (with spray nozzle)

  • Soft-bristle brush or broom

  • Mild soap (dish soap or a gentle laundry detergent works great)

  • A bucket of warm water

  • Ladder (if needed)

  • Dry towel or microfiber cloth

Step-by-Step Awning Cleaning Guide

1. Extend Your Awning Fully

Make sure your awning is completely open so you can access the entire surface. If it's a breezy day, wait for calmer weather, or recruit a helper to hold it steady.

2. Brush Off Loose Debris

Use a soft brush or broom to gently sweep away leaves, dirt, spider webs, and pollen. This helps prevent stains and scratches during the wash.

3. Hose It Down

Give the fabric a good rinse with your garden hose. Start from the top and work your way down, just like washing a car.

4. Suds It Up

Mix warm water with a few drops of mild soap. Using your brush or a sponge, gently scrub the fabric in small sections. Focus on any spots with bird droppings, mildew, or tree sap.

Family Tip: Get the kids involved! Let them “paint” the awning with soap suds using sponges or soft brushes.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

Hose it down again to rinse away all the soap. Leftover residue can attract more dirt, so make sure it's fully clean.

6. Let It Air Dry

Keep your awning fully extended until it’s completely dry. Rolling it up while damp can lead to mold or mildew, something no one wants on their patio setup!

What Kind of Awnings Can You Clean This Way?

This cleaning method is safe and effective for most types of fabric retractable awnings, including:

✅ Residential & Patio Awnings

Perfect for homes, decks, and patios. Whether your awning is motorized or manual, the steps below will work just fine. Common brands include SunSetter, ALEKO, Awntech, Aristocrat, KE Outdoor Design and of course, Sunesta Awnings.

✅ RV & Camper Awnings

These tips also work great for RV awnings, including those from Carefree, Lippert (Solera), and Dometic. Just be sure to close and secure your awning afterward if you're hitting the road.

✅ Commercial Awnings

Own a small business or restaurant with a retractable setup? This method for commercial awnings applies here too, just scale up the scrubbing as needed and consider professional help for larger installs.

✅ Acrylic, Vinyl & Canvas Fabrics

These materials are all commonly used in awnings and respond well to gentle cleaning with mild soap and water. If you're unsure about your fabric, check the care tag or manufacturer’s website.

⚠️ Avoid using this method on metal, aluminum, or polycarbonate awnings: these require different cleaning techniques.

Bonus Tips to Keep Your Awning Looking Great

  • Clean seasonally: Once in spring and once in fall is usually plenty for most families.

  • Spot clean as needed: Spills or stains? Don't wait, clean them up right away.

  • Avoid harsh cleaners or pressure washers: These can damage the fabric and void your warranty.

  • Trim nearby trees: Reduces leaves and sap buildup.

  • Close it during storms or high winds: Protects your awning from unnecessary wear and tear.

Keep Your Outdoor Space Fresh

Cleaning your retractable awning is easy, and honestly, kind of satisfying. With a little effort (and maybe a few helping hands), you’ll keep your outdoor space looking sharp and ready for every backyard barbecue, birthday bash, or lazy Sunday afternoon.

If you ever have questions or need help with awning maintenance, just contact us! We’re happy to help keep your shade in shape.

Jeff Moriarty