When the sun fills the courtyard and a gentle breeze caresses your face, you eagerly head out to the outdoor furniture, ready to enjoy some leisurely time, only to find them already covered in dust and stains, looking rather disheveled. Don’t worry! Cleaning outdoor furniture is like giving them a special “SPA” treatment. With the right methods, you can make these “garden companions” that have been by your side shine like new again. Follow this super-practical guide and embark on your cleaning journey!
Why does outdoor furniture require special cleaning?
Outdoor furniture differs from indoor furniture in that it is exposed to natural elements for extended periods of time, facing challenges such as UV rays, rain, mold, dust, pollen, and even bird droppings. Different materials (such as metal, wood, wicker, and plastic) require distinct cleaning methods. Incorrect cleaning methods not only fail to thoroughly remove stains but may also accelerate furniture aging and shorten its lifespan.
Therefore, regular cleaning and maintenance not only maintain the furniture’s appearance but also extend its lifespan, keeping your outdoor space looking as good as new.
1.Plastic Furniture
- Plastic furniture, with its affordable price and excellent weather resistance, has become the top choice for many households when it comes to outdoor furniture. It’s like a mischievous yet sturdy child—it can withstand sun and rain, but it tends to “act up” when exposed to high temperatures. If you rinse it with scalding hot water, it may deform. When cleaning, simply use room-temperature water mixed with mild detergent, and gently wipe the surface with a soft cloth to easily remove stains and restore its clean appearance.
2.Wooden furniture
- Wooden furniture with a natural feel instantly creates a cozy atmosphere when placed in the courtyard. However, they are like elegant yet delicate “forest nobles,” susceptible to mold from moisture and cracking from excessive sun exposure. When cleaning, avoid using excessive water. Gently wipe away stains with a slightly damp soft cloth, then immediately dry the area with a dry cloth. If mold spots do appear, don’t panic—a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda can be your secret weapon. Mix them into a paste, apply it to the mold spots, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away—the mold spots will disappear quickly.
3.Metal Furniture
- Sleek, modern-looking metal furniture appears sturdy at first glance. However, these pieces are actually “fragile” in appearance, and once the surface coating is damaged, they are prone to rusting. When cleaning, use a soft cloth to wipe along the metal’s grain, avoiding scratches to the coating. For stubborn rust stains, a combination of lemon juice and salt is an excellent choice. The acidic properties of lemon juice dissolve rust, while salt acts as an abrasive to remove dirt. Together, they effortlessly restore the metal furniture’s shine.
4.Wicker Furniture
- Wicker furniture exudes a romantic vacation vibe, making you feel like you’re sitting by the sea. However, it’s like a “weaving fairy” that fears water. Once moisture seeps in, the wicker will warp and break. When cleaning, first use a dry brush to carefully brush away dust, then gently wipe with a soft cloth dampened with diluted detergent, and finally use a dry cloth to thoroughly absorb any moisture, ensuring no water stains remain.
Daily maintenance tips
Cleaning only addresses immediate issues; regular maintenance is essential to keep outdoor furniture clean and tidy over the long term, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
- Promptly remove stains: If you notice stains on the furniture, address them promptly without delay. The longer stains remain, the more difficult they are to remove—much like oil stains on clothing, which are easier to clean if treated promptly.
- Use furniture covers: When not in use, cover outdoor furniture with specialized furniture covers. This acts as a “protective layer,” effectively blocking dust, leaves, bird droppings, and other contaminants, significantly reducing cleaning frequency and saving time and effort.
- Regular inspection and maintenance: Take a few minutes each month to inspect your outdoor furniture for loose screws, broken rattan, peeling coatings, or other issues. Addressing these minor issues promptly prevents them from escalating into major problems, keeping your furniture in good condition.
In addition, we found related videos in L.L.Bean‘s work, which you can also click on the link to watch and learn how to clean outdoor furniture.
If you have any questions, please contact us.