How To Remove Green Scum From A Patio Umbrella

Green scum on your patio umbrella could be caused by mildew, mold, algae or a combination of all three. This scum can discolor the umbrella as well as cause a nasty, unwanted odor. Household cleaners may temporarily remove the problem, but the green film is likely to return to the umbrella. A homemade cleaner that includes a common household liquid eliminates the scum and prevents its return to the patio umbrella.

Step 1

Mix 2 cups of undiluted white vinegar, 4 cups of hot water and 2 tbsp. of non-bleach dish soap inside of the bucket or sink.

Step 2

Open the patio umbrella fully.

Step 3

Saturate the bristles of the brush thoroughly in the cleaning solution.

Step 4

Scrub areas of the patio umbrella covered in the green scum. According to Reader's Digest, scrubbing other areas of the umbrella will prevent such growths. Use a clean brush (one not used to remove green scum) to scrub the rest of the umbrella.

Step 5

Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you've finished cleaning the umbrella. Leave the umbrella opened in a sunny portion of your yard or patio until it has fully dried.