How do you clean zip screen and awning fabric?
Outdoor fabrics are made to withstand sun, rain and dust, but regular cleaning protects both their looks and their lifespan. This guide explains how to clean zip screen and awning fabric, what to avoid and how to look after them through the seasons.
Which fabrics?
Ferrini zip screens use Copaco and Serge Ferrari screen fabrics, and its awnings use acrylic awning fabric. Both are made for outdoor use and are cleaned in a similar way: gently, with water and with patience. If your fabric manufacturer gives care instructions, follow those first.
How often?
A general clean at least once a year, ideally at the start of the season, is usually enough. Salt, soot and pollen build up faster on screens by the sea, on busy roads or under trees, so clean them more often there. Cassette awnings get dirty more slowly, because the fabric stays inside the cassette when retracted.
Step-by-step cleaning
- Remove dry dirt: extend the fabric and brush off dust, leaves and bird droppings with a soft brush.
- Wet it: wet the fabric with a garden hose at low pressure.
- Wash it: add a little mild, neutral soap to lukewarm water and clean from top to bottom with a soft brush or sponge, without pressing or scrubbing.
- Rinse: rinse with plenty of water until no soap is left; soap left on the fabric attracts new dirt.
- Dry it: leave the fabric extended until it is completely dry. Do not retract wet fabric; fabric that stays damp in the box or cassette can develop mould and stains.
What to avoid
- Pressure washers: they can damage the weave and the surface coating.
- Solvents, bleach and abrasive cleaners: they can fade the colour and break down the protective coating.
- Hard brushes and scrubbing: they can roughen the surface.
- Retracting it wet: do not close the screen or awning before the fabric is completely dry.
Zip screens only: the zip channel
On a zip screen the zip along the fabric edge runs in a PVC strip inside the side guide. When cleaning, also remove dust and leaves from the guide channels with a soft brush or a damp cloth; a clean channel helps the screen run smoothly and quietly.
Profiles, box and cassette
Wipe the aluminium box, guides, bottom bar and cassette with a damp cloth and soapy water, then rinse. Do not use abrasive sponges or solvents on powder-coated surfaces.
Seasonal care
Before winter, retract the screen or awning clean and dry. On icy days, make sure the fabric and the bottom bar are not frozen in place before you operate the screen. If you use a wind sensor on a motorised system, have your dealer check at the start of the season that it works correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Can zip screen fabric go in the washing machine?
No. The fabric is wound on the tube in the box and held in the guides by its zipped edges, so it is cleaned in place; removing it for machine washing is not recommended.
How do I remove mould stains?
Mould usually comes from retracting the fabric while wet. Light stains generally come off with the method above; for stubborn stains, ask your authorised dealer before trying any chemical.
Can faded fabric be replaced?
In most cases only the fabric is renewed while the box and profiles stay in place. Ask your authorised dealer about sizes and suitability.
Is awning fabric cleaned the same way?
Yes. Acrylic awning fabric is cleaned with water and a soft brush; pressure washers and solvents are not used. A clean at the start of the season is recommended.
Care and service
For fabric replacement and motor or control settings, let us put you in touch with your nearest authorised Ferrini dealer.