How to Clean a SunSetter Retractable Awning

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Check weather, access, and the exact manual

Choose a calm, dry day with enough daylight for full drying. Read the model instructions for extension limits, wind precautions, valance removal, and motor power. Work from stable ground with a long-handled brush; do not climb onto furniture or lean a ladder against moving arms or fabric.

Step 2: Extend fully and isolate motion

Open the awning to the position specified for cleaning, then unplug or switch off the motorized system so no one can retract it. Secure the remote away from the work area. Keep children and pets clear of elbows, front bar, and scissor arms, which remain under spring tension even without power.

Step 3: Brush away dry debris from both sides

Use a soft brush from the cassette outward, letting leaves and dust fall away from the house. Clean the top first, then the underside and valance. SunSetter's FAQ advises removing dry dirt before wet cleaning. Do not grind bird debris into the weave or use a stiff deck brush that can abrade the finish.

Step 4: Mix a mild soap solution

Add a small amount of mild soap to lukewarm water. Avoid bleach, chlorine, solvent, abrasive powder, and strong degreaser unless the exact fabric manual names a specific treatment. Test the mixture on an inconspicuous edge and let it sit briefly; stop if color transfers or the finish changes.

Step 5: Wet and brush gently in sections

Use gentle hose flow or a soaked soft brush to dampen one manageable section. Work the soap across the fabric with light strokes rather than bearing down on it. Treat the underside separately so dirty runoff does not cross cleaned areas. Keep spray away from the motor, outlet, plug, sensors, and wall penetration.

Step 6: Handle organic spots without harsh scrubbing

Lift bird residue and tree debris after it softens, then repeat mild soap locally. Do not scrape with metal. Mildew-like marks can reflect debris sitting on the surface, but a recurring or deeply embedded stain needs the exact fabric maker's treatment; improvised chlorine can weaken or discolor material.

Step 7: Rinse thoroughly at low pressure

Flush soap from the top down using normal garden-hose flow. Continue until no foam remains in seams, valance hems, or the front bar. Never use a pressure washer: it can stretch fabric, drive water into the cassette or motor, and damage stitching and coatings.

Step 8: Wipe the frame without altering adjustments

Use a damp cloth on accessible painted frame and front-bar surfaces, then dry them. Do not lubricate, loosen, or adjust arm hardware unless the owner manual explicitly directs it. Keep fingers away from joints and do not open the motor housing. Corrosion, frayed cable, bent arms, or uneven tracking needs authorized service.

Step 9: Dry completely while extended

Leave the awning fully open in calm weather until the top, underside, valance, seams, and rolled edge are dry. Do not retract it merely because the visible center feels dry. If rain begins, follow the manual's weather safety instructions, then reopen as soon as conditions allow to complete drying.

Step 10: Restore power and observe one cycle

When all components are dry, clear tools, restore power, and retract while watching from a safe distance. Fabric should roll evenly without trapped debris or folds. Stop if the front bar travels crookedly, fabric binds, or the motor strains. Record cleaning and inspect again after pollen season or major debris events.