patio umbrella In most cases, cleaning the fabric of your patio umbrella or canopy can be done with a simple solution of water and mild soap. For tough stains, however, it may take a bit more of an effort. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common stubborn stains and what it will take to get your umbrella or canopy fabric looking good as new again. Bird Droppings – 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid. Tree Sap – 100% turpentine, followed by 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid Berries – 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ up dishwashing liquid and 1 cup ammonia Ketchup or Mustard – 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid Beer - 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid and 1/3 cup white vinegar Soda/Juice/Milk/Tea - 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid Wine – 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid, 1/3  cup white vinegar and 1 cup ammonia Ink - Paint remover (100%), volatile solvent (acetone) 100%, soap and water Mildew – 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup dishwashing liquid and 1 cup bleach Oil - Volatile solvent (acetone) 100% Paint (Latex) Wet - 1 gallon of water mixed with ¼ up dishwashing liquid Paint (Latex) Dry – Paint remover or oil/grease remover Paint (Lacquer or Oil) - Paint remover or oil/grease remover Sun Tan Lotion – Pine oil detergent mixed with water (as directed)