By techworldtre 
By Andrey Zhilin, Cleaning Professional
There’s a moment in every Florida homeowner’s life — usually mid-August — when they go outside, glance at their patio set, and realize: it’s turning green.
Whether it’s wicker, wood, plastic, or aluminum, outdoor furniture in Florida is under constant attack. And in August, when humidity is high, rain is frequent, and ventilation is low, mold doesn’t just appear — it settles in.
As someone who has cleaned everything from luxury rooftop lounges in Miami to modest porches in Fort Myers, I’ve seen how fast mold grows and how stubborn it becomes when ignored.
Why Mold Loves Your Patio in August
Mold needs three things: moisture, heat, and organic matter. In Florida’s late summer:
- Cushions stay damp from overnight dew
- Pollen and dust settle into fabric and cracks
- Plastic surfaces develop microfilm from rain and air pollution
- Covered patios trap heat and block airflow
And here’s the catch: even when it’s not raining, the air itself is damp enough to feed surface mold.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
You might think it’s just a few spots. But by mid-September, that “spot” has spread underneath cushions, into seams, and between woven materials. I’ve had clients call me in October saying, “We can’t get the smell out.”
Here’s what prolonged exposure to August humidity does to your furniture:
- Fades colors
- Warps wood frames
- Creates a slippery film on plastic or resin
- Leaves cushions smelling like wet towels
- Attracts insects and bacteria
How to Prevent Mold — The Smart Way
Forget covering everything in plastic — that traps moisture and makes things worse. Here’s what I recommend to clients during August:
1. Clean Before You Store
Even if you’re not putting furniture away yet, clean it thoroughly:
- Fabric cushions: Mix 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water. Spray and scrub with a soft brush. Air dry in full sun.
- Wood: Use a mild dish soap solution and a sponge. Don’t over-soak. Finish with teak oil if applicable.
- Plastic or resin: A paste of baking soda and water works well for textured areas. Rinse and dry completely.
- Metal frames: Wipe with soapy water and check for rust. Dry fully and spray WD-40 in joints or hinges.
2. Let It Breathe
If you have a covered patio, open it up when possible. Airflow is critical.
If furniture stays damp overnight, tilt cushions or chairs upright during the day to dry both sides.
3. Don’t Store Wet Items
One of the biggest mistakes I see: people stack damp cushions in storage bins or closets. By the time they reopen them in October, the smell is permanent.
If it’s rained recently, wait two full dry days before storing anything soft.
4. Protect Smart, Not Sealed
Covers are fine — but use breathable outdoor furniture covers.
Avoid fully sealing items in plastic wrap or tarps. It traps condensation.
When It’s Too Late
If mold has already taken over the cushion core or seeped into the weave of rattan or rope, professional cleaning might not be enough — and replacement is often the only solution.
My advice? Start now. In August, you can still reverse and prevent damage. A little effort today will save you money — and your nose — later.