Outdoor furniture can be expensive, so it’s important to take care of it regularly to prevent damage from bad weather and wear and tear. Cleaning it properly is also key to keeping it looking good and making it last longer. Keep reading to find out how to clean, maintain, and protect your outdoor furniture.
Cleaning Outdoor Furniture
Regular cleaning is key to keeping your outdoor furniture in good shape, regardless of the material it’s made from. Remember, different types of furniture may require different care methods. Keep reading to discover how to clean your specific pieces.
Wood Furniture
Harsh chemicals can harm wood furniture, so it’s better to use a gentle soap and water mix. Just add a few drops of soap to water in a bucket. Use a soft-bristled brush to dip into the solution and scrub the furniture. After scrubbing, rinse the wood with water and let it dry completely before using it again.
Rattan Furniture
Rattan furniture can easily trap dirt and debris in its grooves, so begin by vacuuming it with a soft brush attachment. Then, create a gentle cleaning solution with warm water and a bit of dish soap or vinegar. Dip a soft cloth into this solution, wring it out well, and wipe the furniture down. After cleaning, use a damp cloth to remove any leftover soap residue, making sure to wring out the cloth well to avoid too much moisture. Let the furniture air dry completely before using it or covering it up.
Metal, Concrete & Plastic Furniture
Start by using a soft-bristled brush to clear any dirt or debris from the furniture’s surface. Like with rattan or wood, you can use a gentle cleaning mixture of dish soap or vinegar and water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into this solution and use it to wipe the furniture down. After cleaning, rinse the furniture well with water to get rid of any soap residue. To finish, use a damp cloth to wipe off any remaining soap, making sure to wring out the cloth well to avoid excess moisture. Let the furniture air dry completely before using or covering it.
Cleaning Outdoor Cushions
Keep your outdoor cushions looking fresh and lasting longer by cleaning them regularly. First, remove any debris like leaves, dirt, or pet hair using a soft-bristled brush, lint roller, or vacuum cleaner.
For most outdoor cushions, a mix of mild soap and warm water works well for cleaning. It’s a good idea to test this solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the fabric. Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the cushions, focusing especially on any stains or heavily soiled spots.
After scrubbing, rinse the cushions thoroughly with a garden hose to eliminate any soap residue. Most importantly, let the cushions air dry completely before placing them back on your furniture.
Cleaning White Outdoor Cushions
For white outdoor cushions, it’s best to avoid using bleach because while it can clean effectively, it might also lead to discoloration or yellowing.
Like with colored cushions, you can create a cleaning solution by mixing one part vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture onto the cushions and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse the cushions off with a garden hose. To help remove any lingering stains or discoloration, hang the cushions in direct sunlight. Make sure they air dry completely before placing them back on your furniture.
Maintaining Outdoor Furniture
Cleaning your outdoor furniture is crucial, but it’s not the only thing needed to keep it in good shape. Regular maintenance is also important to protect it from the elements and prevent wear and tear over time.
Protecting Wood Outdoor Furniture
To prevent your wood outdoor furniture from rotting, warping, or cracking, apply a coat of protective sealant. Also, try to keep the wood away from direct sunlight and rain.
Protecting Rattan Outdoor Furniture
Keep rattan furniture away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the material from drying out and cracking. Also, exposure to moisture or humidity can cause rattan to warp or become discolored. To avoid this, position your furniture away from water sources and quickly wipe off any spills or moisture.
Protecting Metal Outdoor Furniture
To prevent rust on metal furniture, apply a coat of rust-resistant paint and make sure to keep your furniture dry and sheltered from bad weather.
Protecting Concrete Outdoor Furniture
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your concrete furniture, as these can harm the surface. To protect against scratches and damage, place furniture pads under the legs and feet of your concrete pieces. If there are any spills, clean them up right away to prevent stains and further damage.
Protecting Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic furniture is tough but can fade or become brittle if exposed to too much sun over time. To protect it, store your plastic furniture out of direct sunlight when it’s not in use and clean it regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
Storing Outdoor Furniture
Generally, you should store outdoor furniture in a dry, protected place like a shed, garage, or basement during harsh weather or when it’s not in use. Keep your furniture off the ground to protect it from moisture and pests.
If you must store furniture outside, cover it with a waterproof furniture cover or tarp to shield it from the elements. Ensure the cover fits well and completely covers the furniture.