We
all love having a patio or backyard, and it is not just about having
extra open space. It serves as an area for us to relax and even spend
time with our family and friends. However, stained and dirty furniture
can ruin the comfort one can gain from sitting outside.
Outdoor
furniture is susceptible to collecting grime like dust, pollen, mold,
and food spills over time, so knowing how to clean outdoor furniture
becomes imperative. Regular cleaning improves the appearance of patio
furniture and extends its longevity.
In this article, you will find all the essential information, including the frequency of cleaning, methods on how to clean outdoor chairs and tables made with different materials, and more.
How Often Should You Clean Your Outdoor Furniture?
Your location and frequency of utilizing your
outdoor furniture
and its accessories determine the cleaning frequency. On the general
note, spring cleaning and pre-winter cleaning are good practices to
follow. If your outdoor chairs are placed where they can get rain and
dirt, more frequent monthly or bi-weekly cleaning can be very effective.
Routinely scheduled maintenance hinders the enduring accumulation of
mildew, mold, and dust, leaving your outdoor sitting area tidy and
pleasant.
Furthermore, living near the coast means
that salt collects quickly on metal furniture, so more frequent rinsing
is recommended. For furniture stored under a covered patio that doesn’t
see much use, thorough cleaning every few months will be sufficient.
Preparation Before Cleaning
Preparation
is essential for effective cleaning. Focus on gathering the necessary
tools according to your space and furniture requirements, as attention
to detail accelerates and simplifies the work ahead.
Things you’ll need:
Soft brush or old toothbrush
Mild dish soap or detergent
Warm water
Microfiber cloths
White vinegar (for mold/mildew)
Baking soda (for stains)
A bucket
Garden hose or spray bottle
To
initiate, you must remove all cushions and any fabric covers. Wash them
as per their instructions; most allow for machine wash or hand wash. If
the furniture has any loose dirt, dust, spider webs, or leaves, it’s
best to brush those off first to avoid turning the task into a bigger
hassle when water is added.
Cleaning by Furniture Type
The
type of material greatly influences how it can be cleaned. So, let's
learn about the different types of cleaning methods used for different
types of furniture.
Wood and Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Wood
and wicker furniture add elegance to any outdoor setup; however, they
require careful cleaning and maintenance to avoid damage.
Steps to follow:
Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket.
Use a soft sponge or brush to clean the surface gently.
For wicker furniture, use a toothbrush to get into the cracks and weave.
Rinse lightly with a hose. Avoid soaking wooden furniture too much.
Wipe dry with a clean cloth or let it dry in the shade.
If
you notice mildew, spray equal parts white vinegar and water on it. Let
it sit for 10-15 minutes, scrub, and then rinse. To protect wooden
furniture from weather damage, apply wood sealant or furniture oil once
the furniture is dry.
Metal, Iron, and Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
While metal outdoor furniture is strong and durable, without proper care, rust can pose a problem.
Follow these steps:
A soft sponge should be used to scrub with warm water and dish soap.
Rinsing should be done thoroughly with a garden hose.
To prevent water spots, dry using a microfiber towel.
To
remove rust, apply a paste made from baking soda and water to the
affected area, scrub with a brush, then rinse. You may need sandpaper or
a rust remover for deeper rust. After cleaning and drying, apply a
metal protectant or rust-resistant spray to prevent further rusting.
Plastic and Hard Resin Outdoor Furniture
Plastic
outdoor chairs and hard resin furniture are the most common types of
furniture found on patios or balconies due to their ease of cleaning.
Follow these steps to clean:
Pour warm water and dish soap into a bucket.
Clean the sponge or cloth and wipe the furniture.
For tough stains, dampen the sponge with baking soda and scrub the area.
Rinse with a hose or a wet cloth.
Air drying or towel drying is acceptable.
Spray
white vinegar on the area for mildew and discoloration, let it sit for
30 minutes, then scrub it off. Avoid using too much bleach as it weakens
the plastic over time.
Conclusion
Caring
for outdoor furniture is no easy task. With the right tools and
methods, your furniture can stay clean and durable for years to come.
For those looking to refresh their outdoor space, Costway offers a wide
range of
homewares,
stylish furniture, from weather-resistant plastics to elegant wood
designs. The wide selection ensures you can find the perfect piece to
complement your patio or backyard while ensuring long-lasting quality.
Can I use bleach to clean my furniture?
Bleach
can be used on plastic furniture, but only if they are heavily stained
or has mold on it; and only in a diluted ratio (1 part bleach for 10
parts water). Testing on a small area is essential first. For wooden or
metallic furniture, bleach is strongly discouraged as it leads to
fading, corrosion, or damage to the internal framework.
Can I use a pressure washer?
You
may use a pressure washer, though you should take care to avoid wicker
or softer surfaces, as they can be damaged easily. Wicker and wood are
delicate materials that require more attention. Pressure washers are
effective and can be utilized on sturdy substances like plastic and
metal. Ensure to always start with the lowest pressure setting and keep
the nozzle at least two feet away to avoid splintering and chipping.
How do I prevent mildew buildup?
To prevent mildew from settling on your outdoor furniture, follow these tips:
When not in use, store cushions indoors or in waterproof boxes.
Use moisture-resistant covers that allow airflow to reduce moisture accumulation.
All pieces should be completely dry before covering or storing.
Furniture should be wiped regularly and spills promptly cleaned to maintain an appearance.
If the furniture is wood or metal, apply a protective finish or sealant.
