How to Maintain Outdoor Furniture

Having an outdoor lounging area is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and relax. Luckily, outdoor furniture is made to withstand outdoor conditions. However, harsh weather, bugs, or sun can impact your furniture. If you need to maintain outdoor furniture, here are some tips to keep your outdoor lounge in the best condition!

 

Wicker furniture:

Gently cleaning is recommended for wicker, as the material usually cannot endure harsh treatments. Cleaning regularly also prevents mildew build-up, and covering the material if it is intended to be left out for more than 2-3 weeks helps protect it from sun damage.

1. Vacuum or wipe down the area to remove dirt and debris.
2. Clean with a gentle soap
3. Scrub with a soft-bristle brush and rinse away any suds with clean water. Avoid using too much water, which can weaken the fibers.
4. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth.

Maintenance:

Wicker can easily damage under heavy sunlight, so it’s best to keep it covered when possible to avoid sun damage. Use fine-grained sandpaper if there is any peeling paint present.

 

Metal furniture:

Metal furniture is usually made out of aluminum, iron, or steel. Due to most of these being subject to rust, it’s best to have a layer of clear varnish or paint to protect these materials. Even with this coating, these pieces of furniture should be regularly cleaned to prevent any build-up that might lead to rust.

Metal furniture usually is less fragile or soft than wooden or wicker, but it still needs to be cleaned when it can be.

1. Vacuum or wipe down the area to remove dirt and debris.
2. Clean with a gentle soap 
3. Scrub with a soft-bristle brush and rinse away suds with clean water
4. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth

Maintenance: 

If the manufacturer recommends it, apply a transparent paste or quality liquid with a microfiber cloth after cleaning. Use a metal-safe lubricant for swivels, ribs, or poles to help ease friction. Regularly check for any rust or chips, even in hidden places.

 

Wood Furniture: 

Most of the wooden furniture designed for the outdoors is built to have a natural resistance to elements like wind, debris, and sunlight. A clear varnish or finish is unnecessary, but it never hurts if you want an extra layer of protection. Wooden furniture requires minor maintenance but is good to clean routinely.

A general upkeep of wooden furniture is best, but they don’t require extensive steps.

1. Vacuum or wipe down the area to remove dirt and debris.
2. Clean with a gentle soap 
3. Scrub with a soft-bristle brush and rinse away suds with clean water
4. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth

Maintenance: 

Sealing your wooden furniture is the best way to protect it from UV rays, grime, or rain. After cleaning the furniture, apply a clear, water-resistant furnish. It’s always best to consult the manufacturer for instructions on when to re-apply the sealant, but it’s good to do so every 2-3 years.

 

Fabric Furniture:

The fabric used for outdoor furniture is usually made to have a natural resistance to sun damage, moisture, or stains. The dye used for cushions or pillows also has an anti-fading effect to help preserve the furniture for extended periods. 

For removable covers, the material can be machine washed on a gentle setting using both cold water and bleach-free detergent. It’s best if they are air-dried as well. If you want to hand wash:

1. Soak the fabric in a mix of gentle liquid detergent and lukewarm water.
2. Gently rub the material to ease any dirt or grime matted in.
3. Rinse with clean water.
4. Hang to air-dry.

If your furniture does not have removable cushion covers, you must clean them differently. Any new cleaning solutions should be tested on a usually hidden spot to ensure no staining occurs:

1. Vacuum or brush away any leaves, loose dirt, or debris
2. Spot clean any stains with warm water and soap solution and scrub with a soft-bristled brush in circular motions.
3. Rinse cushions thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue
4. Air-dry in a well-ventilated area
5. After completely dry, fluff up cushions to help them regain shape, but gently mold them.

Maintenance: 

Regularly brush off any dirt or debris on cushions and immediately wipe any spills with a wet cloth and soap solution. Cushions slowly lose their water repellency over time. To replenish this, clean and spray a fabric protector, letting it dry completely between coats once a year.

Plastic furniture can be easily cleaned following similar procedures as other outdoor furniture. 

 

Plastic Furniture:

Plastic furniture is the most versatile option you can get. Many manufacturers build plastic outdoor furniture to look like wood or wicker while keeping natural water and sun resistant. 

This type of furniture can be easily cleaned following similar procedures as other outdoor furnishings. 

1. Vacuum or wipe down the area to remove dirt and debris.
2. Clean with a gentle soap 
3. Scrub with a soft-bristle brush and rinse away suds with clean water
4. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth

Maintenance: 

Oils such as sunscreen and suntan spray can collect on plastic surfaces. After use, wipe down the furniture with a wet cloth with a gentle soap solution to clean it.

 

How to store outdoor furniture:

Whether the furniture is wood, wicker, metal, fabric, or plastic, covering it or storing it indoors in areas such as a garage or shed is recommended. Keep the furniture upright to allow any water to drain and remain dry as you hold it.

With these care tips, you can bring lasting comfort to your patio while ensuring it’s functional, safe, and inviting. As proud partners with Ledge Lounger, we understand the importance of maintenance for outdoor furniture. If you want to elevate your backyard space, click the link here to learn more.