Maintaining your patio furniture doesn’t have to be challenging, but it requires a good understanding of how to clean and take care of different types of materials. Read on for tips for looking after your patio furnishings.
Wood
Most wooden garden tables and seating are made from hardwood, which can be easily cleaned and cared for. If you want the woodgrain to get a patina, you should clean your patio furniture once a year. To keep the wood’s natural brown color, you may need to clean it often and treat it with furniture oil and a sealant layer. The exact cleaning frequency depends on the climate and if the furniture is sheltered. Remember that spills must be cleaned immediately to minimize potential staining.
Cleaning Tips for Wooden Furniture:
Remove light debris with a soft bristle brush
Clean the surface with a sponge or damp cloth using mild soap and lukewarm water
Soak up excess water with a lint-free or microfiber cloth
Allow the wood to dry naturally
Metals
Cleaning metal patio furniture is quick when you know what you’re doing. But using the wrong products can negatively impact your metal furniture.
Cleaning Tips for Metal Furniture:
Remove decorative pillows and upholstered cushions
Lightly spray the metal furniture frames with water to wash pieces of dirt and debris
Wipe the surfaces down with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water
Rinse the cloth and wipe it with clean water
Dry the furniture with a microfiber or low abrasion cloth
Plastics
Plastic is a lightweight, synthetic polymer that can take on many different shapes and styles. It doesn’t require paint or sealants like other materials, so it’s easy to maintain. Because of its durability, plastic makes an excellent option for inexpensive outdoor furniture. Cleaning and caring for plastic furniture depend on the form it takes.
Cleaning Tips for Plastic Furniture:
Keep decorative pillows and upholstered cushions aside
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove superficial debris
Vacuum the furniture to get rid of leaves, twigs, soil, or other material
Use a power washer for deep cleaning if needed
Once the furniture is free of dirt, use a hand brush with mild soap and lukewarm water to scrub the surface.
Rinse the brush and scrub with clean water
Air dry the furniture
