Cleaning and Maintenance of Your Patio Furniture

Most patio furniture can be cleaned with soap and water. A pressure washer is useful for cleaning many types of outdoor furniture, but be sure to use a low setting. In addition to cleaning, the following maintenance steps will help your furniture last longer:

Wooden patio furniture that has been coated with an exterior-grade varnish can be cleaned using soapy water but be sure to completely rinse the furniture with clean water. Wooden furniture, with the exception of teak and cedar, should be stored indoors during the winter. Most types of natural wood furniture will need to be restained regularly.

 

Wicker patio furniture can be cleaned using a hose or pressure washer. Remove the cushions and spray off dirt and spills. Use a sponge, mild soap and cold water to wash if the wicker is especially dirty. Once the furniture has dried completely, apply a paste wax to the frame to keep it shiny and water-resistant. Weather-resistant types of wicker make care easier. Store cushions indoors and keep frames covered during the off-season.

Fabric patio furniture like hammocks and cloth covered chairs should be machine-washed using the gentle cycle. Add bleach for white items. Hang outside to dry. Stretching the covers back over the frame before the fabric is completely dry will avoid shrinkage, Frames should be cared for based on the material and fabric furniture should be stored indoors during the winter.

Umbrellas require maintenance after being in storage. Covers should be washed using a soft-bristled brush, mild soap and cold water. Use a spray lubricant on the joints of a wire-frame umbrella. If you have a wooden-frame umbrella, use paste wax to bring back its shine.

 

Acrylic cushions should be removed from the frame before cleaning. Spot clean with a sponge, mild soap and water and rinse with clean water. Allow to dry completely before using or storing to prevent mildew. Mildew-resistant cushions are available, but if you have a problem with mildew, clean with a solution of one cup bleach, two cups detergent and one gallon of water. Mix ingredients thoroughly and spray on the entire cushion. Allow it to soak for 30 minutes and scrub with a sponge or clean rag. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry completely. Plastic does not allow the cushion to breathe and can cause it to mildew if there is any moisture present so never wrap cushions in plastic for storing.

Resin furniture requires the least amount of care. Just spray off with clean water and allow to air dry. If scuff marks are present, use a gentle abrasive to remove. Mildew can be removed using a mixture of one cup bleach, two cups detergent and one gallon of water.

Aluminum, wrought iron and steel frames must be cleaned with water and mild soap. Many newer metal frames are rust-resistant or rust-free. If your metal furniture is not, paste wax or naval jelly can be used to protect from corroding or rusting.