How to Get Mold Out of Outdoor Pillows: Restore Freshness with Simple Steps

Nothing puts a damper on your patio vibes like discovering moldy outdoor pillows.

Between rain showers, humidity, and unpredictable weather, it doesn’t take long for outdoor cushions and pillows to become musty or spotted with mildew.

If you’ve found yourself wondering how to get mold out of outdoor pillows, you’re not alone.

The good news is, with the right tools and techniques, you can save your outdoor pillows without tossing them in the trash.

How to Remove Mold from Outdoor Pillows

Mold and mildew on outdoor pillows can look like dark spots, have a musty smell, and even trigger allergies. Getting rid of it requires a bit of effort—but it’s totally doable.

Supplies You’ll Need:

• Soft scrub brush or toothbrush

• White vinegar

• Baking soda

• Mild detergent

• Hose or spray bottle

• Bucket of warm water

• Optional: hydrogen peroxide or Borax for stubborn mold

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brush Off Loose Mold:

   • Do this outdoors while wearing gloves and a mask if needed. Brush both sides to remove surface spores and loosen dirt and mildew that’s sitting on the fabric.

   • If your pillows have zippered covers, remove them and brush separately to clean seams and hidden corners.

2. Apply Vinegar Solution:

   • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Saturate moldy areas and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

   • For stronger mold stains, add a teaspoon of dish soap to help break down oils that feed mildew.

3. Scrub the Area:

   • Use a soft brush to scrub the moldy spots in circular motions. Work the solution deep into the fibers.

   • Rinse thoroughly with a hose or clean water to flush out loosened debris and soap.

4. Apply Baking Soda Paste (Optional):

   • For tough spots, mix baking soda and water into a thick paste and apply directly.

   • Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb odors and help lift discoloration before scrubbing again.

5. Soak in Soapy Water:

   • Fill a bucket or tub with warm water and a squirt of mild detergent. Submerge the pillows and let them soak for 30 minutes.

   • Gently agitate the water occasionally to help release embedded mold and dirt from the interior fill.

6. Rinse Thoroughly:

   • Use a garden hose or clean water to rinse out all cleaning residue, ensuring no detergent or mold particles remain.

   • Repeat rinsing if needed—until the water runs clear.

7. Dry in Direct Sunlight:

   • Sunlight helps kill any remaining mold spores and speeds up drying. Position pillows with full exposure and flip every hour to ensure even drying on all sides.

   • If the forecast is cloudy, place them under a fan indoors near a sunny window, but allow extra drying time.

Freshly cleaned outdoor pillows pair nicely with a Puffy Lux Mattress for indoor comfort—both work together to support a clean, breathable sleep environment that minimizes allergens.

Natural Mold Removal for Outdoor Pillows

If you prefer to skip harsh chemicals, here are a few eco-friendly options:

Natural Solutions:

• White Vinegar – Antifungal and safe for most fabrics.

• Baking Soda – Deodorizes and breaks down stains.

• Hydrogen Peroxide – Mild bleach alternative for colored fabrics (test first).

• Lemon Juice + Salt – A sunny-day combo that brightens and disinfects.

These natural ingredients can often be as effective as store-bought mold removers without the harsh scent.

How to Prevent Mold on Outdoor Pillows

Once your pillows are clean, keep them that way with these simple steps:

• Store pillows in a waterproof deck box or storage bin when not in use.

• Bring them inside during rainstorms or long periods of humidity.

• Spray fabric protectant on clean pillows to repel moisture and mildew.

• Allow pillows to dry fully in the sun at least once a week.

Even something as simple as flipping pillows over each day can help them dry evenly and avoid mold growth on the bottom side.

Cleaning Mold from Foam-Filled Outdoor Pillows

Foam-filled pillows require extra care to avoid waterlogging and breakdown.

Best Practices:

• Spot clean moldy areas with diluted vinegar solution.

• Use gentle pressure when scrubbing to protect foam structure.

• Squeeze (don’t wring) excess water out, then air dry completely.

• Avoid soaking memory foam or latex cushions.

If a pillow smells musty after drying or still feels damp inside, it’s best to replace it. Mold inside foam is tough to remove completely.

When to Replace Moldy Outdoor Pillows

Sometimes, no amount of scrubbing can fix what mold has already damaged.

Signs It’s Time to Toss:

• Pillows still smell musty after thorough cleaning

• Fabric is stained beyond repair

• Mold returns quickly after cleaning

• Fill feels lumpy or deteriorated

Replacing old pillows helps protect your outdoor furniture and your health.

And just like you’d replace an outdoor pillow when it’s beyond saving, upgrading your old mattress to a Puffy Cloud Mattress can breathe new life into your sleep setup with hypoallergenic, mold-resistant materials.

Mold Cleaning Tips for Outdoor Cushions and Fabrics

The same mold-fighting steps can apply to outdoor seat cushions, fabric umbrellas, or canvas furniture covers.

• Use a vinegar and baking soda mix for cushions.

• Dry flat and in full sun whenever possible.

• Apply a UV- and water-repellent spray after cleaning to extend the lifespan of outdoor fabrics.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to get mold out of outdoor pillows helps you keep your patio fresh, your family healthier, and your outdoor furniture looking great all season long.

Whether you go the natural route or opt for a little more scrubbing power, restoring your pillows is easier than you think.

Combine that clean outdoor energy with a fresh sleep experience indoors, and you’re on your way to a healthier home—inside and out.