Removing stains from awnings: bird droppings, discolouration and musty odours tackled
Bird droppings, discolouration and musty odours are the most common problems with awnings. Each type of damage has a different cause and calls for a different approach. In this article, you'll find out what's happening with each problem, why it's difficult to remove, and how to solve it with the right products.
How do I remove bird droppings from my awning?
Bird droppings dry quickly and bond to the fibres of the fabric. The longer you wait, the deeper the stain penetrates. On synthetic fabrics such as polyester and acrylic, this happens relatively fast in warm weather.
Start by removing any dry material. Use a soft brush or a blunt object to loosen the dried residue. Then rinse with water to flush away any loose remains.
Next, wash the fabric with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo. Apply the shampoo with a soft brush and work in small circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
If a stain is still visible after washing, the soiling has penetrated deeper into the fabric. In that case, apply Fabric Power Cleaner directly to the affected area. Allow it to work for a maximum of 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Fabric Power Cleaner is designed for stubborn stains and should only be used on the affected spot, not over the entire fabric.
My awning fabric has faded from the sun — can I restore it?
Fading caused by prolonged sun exposure happens gradually. The fabric loses colour intensity and starts to look worn. This is a different issue from an ordinary stain: it involves deterioration of the top layer of the fabric.
In many cases, a thorough clean is enough to revive the colour. Wash the awning with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo, then apply Fabric Power Cleaner directly to the most discoloured areas. Allow the Power Cleaner to work briefly, then rinse thoroughly.
Keep in mind that severe fading caused by years of exposure cannot be fully reversed. Cleaning can, however, noticeably reduce the discolouration in many cases and leave the fabric looking fresher. Prevention is easier than restoration: store the awning indoors during the off-season or cover it properly.
How do I stop my awning from getting dirty again quickly after cleaning?
After cleaning, the fabric is clean but not yet protected. An awning without a water-repellent treatment absorbs moisture more readily, which means dirt clings to the surface more easily and stains penetrate faster.
Once the fabric has been cleaned and dried, apply a protection product. For synthetic awning fabrics made from polyester or acrylic, use Sprayhood & Tent Protector. This product restores the water repellency of the fabric so that water beads off again instead of soaking in.
For cotton or canvas awnings, use Canvas & Cotton Protector. This product is specifically designed for natural fibres and keeps the fabric breathable.
Always make sure the fabric is completely dry before applying the protection product. A damp fabric will not absorb the product as effectively.
My awning smells musty after winter — what should I do?
A musty smell develops when an awning has been stored while still damp, or when it hasn't had enough time to dry out properly during a wet period. The smell is locked into the fabric fibres and won't disappear simply by airing it out.
Wash the fabric thoroughly with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo. Work the shampoo in well with a soft brush, making sure you cover every part of the fabric, including the edges and seams. Then rinse the fabric completely with clean water.
Allow the awning to dry fully in the open air before rolling it up or storing it again. Storing it while still damp will cause the musty smell to return. Storing it dry is the best way to prevent this.
Which product do I use for which problem?
- Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo: for general cleaning of the entire fabric, including dirt, grime and light discolouration.
- Fabric Power Cleaner: for stubborn stains and deeply embedded soiling — apply directly to the affected area only.
- Sprayhood & Tent Protector: for protecting synthetic fabrics after cleaning.
- Canvas & Cotton Protector: for protecting cotton or canvas fabrics after cleaning.
What does a complete maintenance routine look like?
A proper maintenance routine always follows the same sequence: clean first, then treat any stains, and finally protect.
- Wash the fabric with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo. Use a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
- Are there still stains visible after washing? Apply Fabric Power Cleaner directly to the stain. Allow it to work for a maximum of 15 minutes. Rinse.
- Allow the fabric to dry completely.
- Apply the appropriate protection product: Sprayhood & Tent Protector for synthetic fabric, or Canvas & Cotton Protector for cotton and canvas.
Don't skip any steps. A protection product applied to a dirty fabric won't work as well. Always clean first.
Frequently asked questions about awning stains
Can I remove bird droppings from an awning with vinegar or washing-up liquid?
Household cleaning products are not suitable for outdoor fabrics. They can damage the fabric's coating and reduce its water repellency. Always use a product designed specifically for outdoor textiles, such as Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo.
Do I need to treat my awning every year?
That depends on how often the awning is used and how much exposure it gets. In most cases, an annual treatment at the start or end of the season is sufficient. If you notice that water is no longer beading off properly, it's time for a fresh protective treatment.
Can I use Fabric Power Cleaner over the entire awning?
No. Fabric Power Cleaner is designed for targeted use on stubborn stains. Do not apply it over the entire fabric. Always start with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo for general cleaning.
Is there a difference between a synthetic awning and a canvas awning?
Yes. Synthetic fabrics (polyester, acrylic) and cotton or canvas fabrics respond differently to cleaning and protection. For the protection step, use Sprayhood & Tent Protector on synthetic fabrics, and Canvas & Cotton Protector on cotton or canvas. Not sure? Check the label on your awning or contact the manufacturer.
My awning has plastic windows. Can I clean them with the same product?
No. Plastic or transparent windows require a separate product: Clear Plastic Cleaner & Protector. Never use a fabric cleaner or fabric impregnation product on plastic windows, as this can damage the material or cause it to become cloudy.