Aluminum outdoor furniture is a popular choice for patios, decks, and pools due to its durability, lightweight, and eye-catching look. Over time, exposure to the elements can cause aluminum furniture to show signs of weathering like oxidation, stains, dirt buildup, and discoloration. Learning how to properly clean and care for aluminum outdoor furniture is key to preserving its beauty and extending its lifespan. We will cover everything you need to know about cleaning aluminum patio furniture and maintaining that showroom shine for years to come.
Why Proper Cleaning is Important for Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
Since aluminum is prone to oxidation when exposed to air and moisture, it requires more frequent cleaning than other outdoor furniture materials like wicker, teak, or stainless steel. Allowing dirt, debris, oxidation, and stains to accumulate will speed up the weathering process. The aluminum will start showing unsightly signs of aging including:
- Dull, lackluster appearance: Loss of the reflective surface and bright sheen.
- White oxidation staining: Chalky white deposits form on the surface.
- Pitted texture: Small cavities, dents and bumps start forming in the aluminum.
- Rust staining: If the aluminum is uncoated, orange rust will appear.
- Black spots: Dirt and debris cause black greasy spots.
Regular cleaning removes these contaminants before they can damage the aluminum or become more difficult to remove. It maintains the shiny polished look and prevents deterioration. Cleanings every few weeks are ideal for aluminum patio sets.
Cleaning Supplies You Will Need
Cleaning aluminum requires some special supplies that are safe for use on aluminum and effective at removing oxidation, stains, dirt, and debris.
Here are the recommended supplies to have on hand:
- Mild detergent or soap: Liquid dish soap or laundry detergent works well. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners.
- Soft cloths and sponges: Microfiber cloths, soft-bristle brushes, or non-abrasive sponges are safe for aluminum.
- Soft plastic scrapers or scrubbers: For stuck-on debris, use plastic tools like old credit cards, plastic putty knives, etc. Avoid abrasive scrub pads.
- Stainless steel cleaner/polish: A specialty aluminum cleaner or stainless steel polish breaks down oxidation and leaves a shine.
- Water hose: For rinsing away debris and drying the furniture after cleaning.
- Protectants: Using protectants like car wax or mineral oil helps repel dirt and moisture.
Cleaning Aluminum Furniture: Step-By-Step Process
Follow this complete step-by-step guide for cleaning aluminum patio furniture like a pro:
Step 1: Rinse with Water
Use a garden hose to spray down the furniture and rinse away loose dirt and debris. Check crevices and joints for dirt buildup and aim the stream of water into these areas while brushing with a soft-bristle scrub brush. Rinsing will make the scrubbing step easier.
Step 2: Make a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap or detergent. The soapy water will lift grease, grime, and other contaminants off the aluminum surface.
Step 3: Scrub the Furniture
Use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush dipped in the soapy water to scrub every surface. Apply light to moderate pressure when scrubbing to lift dirt and stains. For textured or intricate patterns, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean crevasses.
Pay extra attention to:
- Tabletops and chair seats where food, drinks, and other debris accumulate.
- Horizontal surfaces like armrests and table ledges where bird droppings and tree sap collect.
- Joints, seams, and corners where dirt, gunk, and oxidation can hide.
Step 4: Remove Stubborn Stains
For stubborn stains like rust, mildew, or oxidation that don’t budge with regular scrubbing, use a plastic scraper or old credit card. Gently scrape in the direction of the grain to lift stains without scratching the aluminum. Small spots can be scrubbed with a magic eraser sponge or fine steel wool.
Step 5: Polish and Protect
Once all dirt, debris, and oxidation are removed, apply an aluminum polish, stainless steel cleaner, or metal protectant. Rub a small amount over the surface with a soft cloth. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before buffing in the direction of the grain with a clean cloth. This leaves a glowing, streak-free shine.
Finish up by applying a protectant like car wax, mineral oil, or silicone spray. These sealants add a protective barrier and help repel moisture and dirt. Re-apply every few weeks.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
Finish up by thoroughly rinsing all cleaning solution residue off with a garden hose or spray bottle. Wipe furniture dry with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
How to Clean Specific Types of Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
Certain types of aluminum furniture have more specialized cleaning needs:
Cast Aluminum Furniture
Cast aluminum patio sets are highly detailed and decorative but the crevices and intricate shapes can collect dirt. Use soft nylon brushes and toothbrushes to clean hard-to-reach spots. Rinse well and dry quickly to avoid water pooling in decorative spots.
Wrought Iron and Aluminum Furniture
Wrought iron frame outdoor furniture with aluminum slats requires cleaning both materials. Use a separate cloth for the iron to avoid transferring abrasives from the aluminum. Iron can be maintained by sanding and refinishing annually.
Aluminum Frame Patio Umbrellas
Telescoping aluminum patio umbrellas need special attention where the sections rub together. Use grease cutters like baking soda or ammonia to scrub stubborn grease buildup before re-lubricating with silicone spray.
Aluminum Bar Height Swivel Stools
Clean both the legs and seat cushions. Use a small vacuum brush attachment to clean where the swivel mechanism connects. Lubricate joints annually with penetration oil.
Aluminum chaise Lounges
Frequently wipe down vinyl chaise cushions and use mild soap and water for the woven strapping. Pay special attention to the folding mechanism. Keep chaise joints lubricated.
Aluminum Sofa Sets
For cushions, brush off dirt before using mild soap and water. For the aluminum frames, clean regularly with polishing and protectants to keep the shine. Microfiber cloths easily remove fingerprints and smudges.
Helpful Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Follow these useful tips while cleaning aluminum outdoor furniture and maintaining its appearance:
- Clean consistently rather than deep cleaning once a year. This prevents buildup of stubborn dirt. A quick wipe down weekly works wonders.
- Work in the shade and avoid using cleaners in direct sunlight when aluminum surfaces are hot. Heat exacerbates chemical reactions.
- Wipe off spills immediately before they can stain and get sticky. Have cleaning supplies handy outside.
- Rotate frequently used cushions and pillows to evenly distribute wear and stains.
- Before winter storage, clean thoroughly and cover to protect from moisture, condensation, snow, and dirt.
- For deep-set oxidation stains, more vigorous scrubbing may be needed with qtips or 80+ grit sandpaper.
- If DIY cleaners are ineffective, consider professional restoration or services like sandblasting, powder coating, and re-anodizing.
- Disassemble furniture pieces during cleaning to access all surfaces. Reassemble when completely dry.
- Always scrub gently in the direction of the grain. Rubbing back and forth can create ugly scratches.
- Test cleaners on an inconspicuous spot first to check for discoloration or damage to the finish.
Common Questions about Cleaning Aluminum Furniture
Cleaning and maintaining aluminum outdoor furniture often raises questions for homeowners. Here are some commonly asked questions:
Can I use pressure washers on aluminum patio furniture?
Pressure washing is not recommended. The powerful spray can damage the protective coating and force moisture into tiny crevices leading to corrosion over time. A regular garden hose on a light to medium setting is ideal.
How often should aluminum patio furniture be cleaned?
Ideally, aluminum should be cleaned thoroughly every 2-4 weeks during the warmer seasons when the furniture is frequently used. A quick maintenance wipe down can be done weekly.
What are some homemade cleaners that can be used?
Mild dish soap mixed with warm water works very well for most cleaning. Baking soda mixed with water makes a gentle scrubbing paste for oxidation. White vinegar also helps remove stains. Start with the mildest cleaners first before attempting heavy-duty chemicals.
Can aluminum patio furniture be left outside year-round?
Aluminum is prone to weather damage if left uncovered in the elements year-round. It best to store the furniture in a garage or covered area during the colder months if possible. If keeping it outside, maintain cleaning and apply protectants before winter.
Why does cleaned aluminum furniture turn dull again quickly?
This often occurs when furniture is not dried thoroughly after washing. It is critical to completely dry aluminum to prevent water spots which leave a cloudy film. Always wipe down with a microfiber cloth immediately after hosing off.
What is the white powdery stuff that forms on aluminum?
White chalky deposits that form on aluminum surfaces are oxidation. Aluminum reacts with oxygen in the environment when the protective coating is compromised. Specialty aluminum cleaners contain oxalic or phosphoric acid to dissolve oxidation.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my aluminum patio set?
No, you should never use a pressure washer to clean aluminum furniture. The powerful, highly pressurized water jet can damage the surface and protective coatings. A regular garden hose with a spray nozzle is recommended.
Maintain Your Aluminum Furniture’s Beauty
Aluminum is one of the most popular materials for outdoor patio furniture because of its durability, weather-resistance, low maintenance, and affordable prices. But no material is completely immune to the wear and tear of outdoor exposure. By learning proper cleaning and care, your aluminum furniture can maintain its good looks for many years of enjoyable use outdoors. Follow these cleaning tips and techniques for removing everyday dirt and stains, stopping oxidation in its tracks, and keeping your aluminum outdoor furniture glowing like new.