Outdoor furniture cleaning serves two important purposes: it protects both appearance and lifespan while creating spaces that remain usable for families and visitors through all seasons.

Your patio or garden setup needs to remain ready for all seasons, whether you host summer barbecues, fall evenings, or occasional winter gatherings.

Follow this proper care plan to maintain outdoor furniture for year-round use.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to maintain outdoor furniture so it remains in excellent condition throughout all seasons.

Why Outdoor Furniture Cleaning Matters

Outdoor furniture withstands sunlight, rain, wind, and even snow exposure.

Prolonged exposure to these factors results in fabric discoloration and damage, metal corrosion, and wood decay.

A clean outdoor furniture routine enables the preservation of appearance, comfort, and protection of your investment value.

Proper maintenance increases furniture’s durability and safety while reducing the need for replacement or repair.

Types of Outdoor Furniture and Their Needs

Each material demands unique care procedures. Knowing your furniture materials helps you select the correct cleaning methods, save them from premature wear, and prevent damage.

Plastic and Resin: The affordable and lightweight materials will experience brittleness and discoloration when unprotected. Regular cleaning works for them yet UV protection must be applied to stop fading.

Wood (Teak, Cedar, Eucalyptus): Natural wood furniture adds charm but requires more upkeep. Natural wood materials resist decay but require periodic cleaning and oil applications to stop drying and cracking problems.

Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron): Metal furniture is sturdy and long-lasting. Rust forms easily on steel and wrought iron chair frames when their protective coatings deteriorate. The rust-resistant properties of aluminum do not last indefinitely since the material can develop oxidation stains over time.

Wicker and Rattan: The furniture pieces provide a traditional and inviting design to any space. Synthetic wicker materials provide better weather resistance than natural rattan, which requires protection from both moisture and intense sunlight.

Cushions and Fabrics: The removable, washable covers on outdoor furniture cushions do not prevent moisture and mildew from occurring. Quick-dry and mold-resistant fabric selection minimizes the requirement for deep cleaning since it provides better resistance to moisture.

How to Clean Each Type of Outdoor Furniture

Here’s how to clean each type of outdoor furniture to keep it looking its best.

Cleaning Plastic and Resin Furniture

First, remove any debris, including leaves, from the surface.

A soft cloth or sponge should be used with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap to clean the area. A combination of white vinegar or baking soda should be used for difficult stains.

Use a hose to rinse it well, then let the furniture air dry in the sun.

To protect your furniture from UV damage, apply a spray with UV resistance properties.

Cleaning Wooden Furniture

Use a soft-bristle brush to clear away surface dust and debris. After using a soft soap solution, take a damp cloth and delicately scrub the surface.

Power washers must be avoided since they can strip away wood finishes while potentially creating splinters.

After cleaning, rinse with a hose and dry with a towel.

To protect against moisture damage and maintain its color, make sure the wood is fully dry before applying teak oil/sealant.

Cleaning Metal Furniture

Start by inspecting for rust or chipping paint. Use a wire brush to clean away any corrosion that exists.

Clean the surface by applying a mixture of warm, soapy water and using a sponge for scrubbing. After removing the soap with clean water, dry the surface with a microfiber cloth.

A protective wax or rust inhibitor should be applied to maintain the new appearance.

Use rust-resistant spray paint to touch up areas with chipped paint whenever necessary.

Cleaning Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Use vacuum cleaners to remove all dust and debris accumulated in the furniture crevices.

Clean the furniture carefully using a soft brush and diluted detergent, ensuring it isn’t waterlogged.

The furniture needs a gentle cloth, rinse, and dry in the shade to stop warping.

Natural wicker should be stored indoors whenever heavy rain or snow threatens to damage its condition.

Cleaning Outdoor Cushions and Fabrics

Always check the manufacturer’s label before attempting to clean the item.

Machine wash removable covers in a gentle cycle followed by air drying.

For specific cleaning needs use a dish soap mixture with water and gently scrub with a sponge.

For mildew treatment, use a vinegar solution.

After complete drying, allow outdoor cushions to return to their outdoor location to avoid developing mold.

Tips for Ongoing Maintenance

Protect from the Elements: Covers should be used during bad weather or off-season periods. UV-protective covers prevent fading and moisture accumulation.

Store in a Safe Place: Store your cushions and lightweight furniture in a shed or garage whenever extreme seasons occur.

Reapply Sealants: The lifetime of wooden and metal furniture depends on annual applications of sealants or protective coatings.

Clean Spills Promptly: Food and drink spills on surfaces like tables need immediate wiping since it helps stop stains and mildew from forming.

Schedule Monthly Cleanings: Regular light cleaning should occur monthly to both stop accumulation and simplify future deep cleaning sessions.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: All items require thorough cleaning after exposure to winter weather during spring. Check for damage so you can perform the required repairs.

Summer: During summer, focus on using UV protection methods and perform quick cleaning of stains after usage. Heavy usage happens during this season; thus, you need to clean regularly.

Fall: Frequent leaf and debris removal will stop staining of the area during autumn. Before wintertime, you should store furniture or use covers because temperatures will get lower.

Winter: Store furniture when possible. Outdoor furniture must be completely covered while being elevated from the ground to stop moisture damage.

Choosing the Right Cleaner for Outdoor Furniture

The Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner: It functions on various surfaces while promoting environmental responsibility.

Scotchgard Water and Sun Shield: It protects fabric cushions against UV rays and moisture.

Star Brite Teak Cleaner: Wooden outdoor furniture requires this product for restoration and ongoing maintenance.

The 303 Aerospace Protectant: It works on plastic rubber and vinyl surfaces to fix fading while preventing cracking.

You can purchase these products through Amazon and Walmart’s online stores.

Your Outdoor Oasis Must Be Ready for Every Season

Your outdoor furniture should function as a peaceful sanctuary instead of a spot where furniture becomes dirty or develops deterioration.

The proper maintenance routine and a bit of effort will keep your outdoor setup looking great during every season.

Outdoor cleaning forms only one aspect of maintaining your home’s freshness and welcoming appearance.

NW Maids: Your Go-To Home Cleaners for Peace of Mind

NW Maids is your best choice for housecleaning services when you require professional indoor cleaning support.

The skilled team at NW Maids will provide you with peace of mind as you enjoy your newly cleaned outdoor area.

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