How to Clean Outdoor Furniture and 6 Essential Maintenance Tips

No one wants to relax on grimy patio furniture! That’s why regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your outdoor spaces looking good throughout the seasons. Whether you have power-coated aluminum outdoor furniture, sunbrella outdoor furniture, good old wooden outdoor furniture, or anything in between, you need to figure out how to properly clean your pieces and keep up with maintenance. Today, we will help with that!

 

How to Clean Your Outdoor Furniture Depending on Material

 

• Wood and wicker outdoor furniture

Wood and wicker furniture add a natural and inviting touch to any outdoor space but require specific care to maintain their beauty and longevity. For routine cleaning, mix a mild oil-based soap with warm water. This solution effectively removes grime without damaging the wood or wicker fibers. Alternatively, you can make a DIY cleaning solution by combining 1/4 cup ammonia, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, and 1 quart of warm water.

For painted or wicker furniture, such as coastal outdoor furniture, ensure to dilute the cleaning solution appropriately to prevent any potential damage to the finish. Regularly wiping down wood furniture removes dirt, debris, and excess water, which can cause staining or warping over time. To protect hardwood furniture, consider sanding and applying a fresh coat of protective finish annually, such as oil, stain, or polyurethane. For wicker furniture, periodic hosing down helps prevent dirt buildup in the weave’s crevices.

• Metal outdoor furniture

Metal outdoor furniture, such as aluminum outdoor furniture or iron pieces require careful cleaning to preserve their appearance and prevent corrosion. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or trisodium phosphate (TSP), as they can cause oxidation or damage the metal finish. For aluminum furniture, which commonly faces oxidation issues, use a gentle cleaning solution like a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water.

Remove scuff marks with a soft cloth dampened with a non-abrasive cleaning product. Combat rust by sanding affected areas and touching up with a rust-resistant primer followed by paint. Consider professional services like sandblasting or powder coating for wrought-iron furniture to enhance its durability against outdoor elements. After cleaning, protect metal surfaces by applying a coat of automotive wax to maintain their shine and weather resistance.

• Glass outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture pieces with glass such as tables add elegance to outdoor spaces, but they also require careful cleaning. Begin by removing any stuck-on debris using a non-abrasive cleanser that is safe for glass surfaces. Avoid scrub brushes that can scratch glass and instead opt for gentle cleaning tools designed for tough cleaning jobs without damaging your furniture. For routine cleaning, use dish detergent or a dedicated glass cleaner applied with a microfiber cloth or paper towel.

Regularly wipe down the underside of glass tables to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, which can become difficult to remove over time. Additionally, clean the frames of glass tables according to their material type, ensuring all components of the furniture are maintained for long-term durability. To protect outdoor glass furniture, cover the table when not in use to prevent exposure to elements that can diminish its appearance and clarity. Minor scratches and chips in the glass can be fixed using a glass repair kit to maintain its aesthetic appeal and functionality.

 

• Plastic and hard-resin outdoor furniture

Plastic and hard-resin outdoor furniture offer durability and versatility but require proper care to maintain their appearance and functionality over time. Begin by mixing 1/2 cup baking soda with 1 gallon of warm water to create a mild cleanser suitable for routine cleaning. For tougher stains, combine 3 tablespoons of dishwasher detergent with 1 gallon of warm water, leveraging its mild bleaching agent to remove stubborn marks without damaging the furniture’s surface.

For stubborn stains, apply white distilled vinegar directly to a clean rag and wipe down the affected area. Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda on a wet sponge to create a mild abrasive that removes stains without scratching the furniture’s surface. After cleaning, protect plastic furniture by applying a coat of automotive paste wax to enhance its resistance to weathering and maintain its glossy appearance. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques help extend the lifespan of plastic and hard-resin outdoor furniture, ensuring it remains an attractive and functional addition to your outdoor living space.

 

6 Outdoor Furniture Maintenance Tips

While regularly cleaning your outdoor furniture pieces, including your outdoor furniture cushion, is an essential part of maintenance, that’s not the only thing you’ll need to do. Here are a few outdoor maintenance tips to keep in mind:

1. Protect your outdoor furniture from the sun

Protect your furniture from sun damage by covering it with UV-resistant fabric or placing it in shaded areas when not in use. Consider installing an umbrella or canopy to provide additional shade and protection during sunny days.

 

2. Use the right products

Use cleaning products specifically designed for outdoor furniture to avoid damage to its materials and finishes. Read product labels carefully before use and test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility.

 

3. Try to manage spills effectively

Promptly clean up food and drink spills to prevent stains and deter pests from gathering around your outdoor furniture. Keep a cleaning rag and gentle cleanser nearby for quick and easy cleanup during outdoor gatherings.

4. Pay attention to your outdoor furniture cushion

Prevent waterlogged cushions by drying them promptly after exposure to rain or moisture. Tip cushions on their sides to drain excess water and store them indoors during inclement weather to prolong their lifespan and maintain their comfort.

 

5. Remember off-season storage

Store outdoor furniture indoors or cover it with UV-resistant tarps during the off-season to protect it from harsh winter weather and prolong its lifespan. Consider shrink-wrapping furniture for additional protection if storage space is limited.

 

6. Consider professional services

If your outdoor furniture requires extensive cleaning or restoration, consider hiring professionals with expertise in furniture maintenance and repair. Professional services can help restore the appearance and functionality of your furniture, ensuring it continues to enhance your outdoor living space for years to come.

 

By using this outdoor furniture cleaning guide and keeping these maintenance tips in mind, you can ensure your outdoor furniture not only stays clean but also lasts longer!