A high-quality umbrella is an investment. Whether it is a luxury golf umbrella or a custom branded promotional gift, proper care makes the difference between a product that lasts for years and one that breaks in a season.

As a manufacturer since 1987, we engineer umbrellas to withstand wind and rain, but we can’t protect them from improper use. Here are the professional “Do’s and Don’ts” to keep your umbrella in top condition.

Table of Contents

1. The Golden Rules of Daily Use

The “Shake to Wake” Rule: Never force an umbrella open. Before pushing the runner up, give the umbrella a gentle shake to separate the ribs and fabric. This prevents the ribs from snapping under sudden tension.
Dry it Open, Not Closed: Never fold a wet umbrella. This is the #1 cause of rust on the metal frame and mildew (smell) on the fabric. Leave it semi-open in a ventilated area to dry completely before closing.
It’s Not a Walking Stick: Unless it is specifically designed as a “Walking Stick Umbrella,” do not tap it on the ground. This damages the ferrule (tip) and bends the shaft, weakening the structure.

2. How to Clean Your Umbrella (The Right Way)

Over time, dust and urban pollution can dull the colors of your umbrella. Here is how to wash it without damaging the waterproof coating.

🧼 For Pongee & Nylon Fabrics:

Fully open the umbrella.
Mix warm water with a mild liquid detergent.
Use a soft sponge to gently wipe the canopy. Avoid harsh brushes that can scratch the waterproofing.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Let it air dry completely in the shade (avoid direct scorching sun for prolonged periods).

⚠️ WARNING: Never use gasoline, kerosene, or bleach. These organic solvents will dissolve the waterproof coating and fade the fabric color.

3. Storage and Rust Prevention

Even fiberglass umbrellas have metal parts (springs and rivets). To prevent rust:

Keep the umbrella away from “alkaline” environments (like lime walls).
Avoid Extreme Heat: Do not leave umbrellas in the back window of a hot car. Prolonged heat can warp plastic handles and make the fabric brittle.
Use the Pouch: Once dry, always store the umbrella in its sleeve. This protects the fabric from snagging and keeps dust away.

💡 Business Tip for Brand Owners

Are you creating a custom umbrella line?

Adding a “Care Instruction Card” or a sewn-in care label adds perceived value to your product. It shows your customers that you are selling a premium item worth caring for.

At HF Umbrella, we can customize care tags specifically for your brand.