Outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements and can get dirty quite easily. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to keep it looking good. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean outdoor furniture properly.
What You Need to Clean Outdoor Furniture
Before you start cleaning, ensure you have all the necessary supplies:
- Mild detergent or soap – Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals that may damage the furniture. Baby shampoo works well.
- Soft-bristle scrub brush – For scrubbing stuck-on dirt and debris. Avoid wire brushes that can scratch.
- Spray bottle or bucket – For applying and rinsing off the cleaning solution.
- Clean cloths – Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning. Avoid rough rags.
- Garden hose – For rinsing furniture thoroughly after cleaning.
- Protective gear – Gloves, eye protection, etc. to keep you safe during the cleaning process.
Optional supplies:
- Upholstery cleaner – For fabric cushions and pillows.
- Furniture polish – For shining wood, metal, or wicker after cleaning.
- Toothbrush – For cleaning in crevices and intricate designs.
- Scrub pads – For additional scrubbing power on tough stains.
- Pressure washer – For deep cleaning extremely dirty furniture. Use cautiously.
How to Clean Wood Outdoor Furniture
Wood furnishings like tables, chairs, benches, etc. are common outdoors. Here’s how to clean them:
1. Remove Cushions and Decor
Remove any fabric cushions or decorative pillows. Take out any removable parts like chair pads or umbrella tops and set aside. This allows you to access and clean the entire piece.
2. Rinse Away Loose Debris
Use a hose to rinse away surface-level dirt, pollen, bird droppings, etc. Aim the stream at crevices and intricate carvings to dislodge debris.
3. Make a Cleaning Solution
Mix warm water and a few drops of mild detergent in a spray bottle or bucket. Avoid harsh chemicals that may strip or discolor the wood finish.
4. Scrub the Furniture
Use a soft scrub brush and cleaning solution to scrub the entire surface of the furniture. Apply extra elbow grease on stained or mildewy areas. Get into crevices with a toothbrush.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Remove all soap residue by hosing down the furniture thoroughly. Wipe with clean cloths until the wood feels smooth and looks clean. Allow the furniture to air dry completely.
6. Apply Wood Polish (Optional)
Once the wood is fully dry, apply a light coat of furniture polish. Buff it out using soft cloths to restore shine and protection.
7. Reattach Cushions and Decor
Put back all removable parts like cushions and umbrella tops once the furniture is completely dry. Your wood furniture is now refreshed and ready to enjoy!
Cleaning Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Wicker furniture has a woven design that requires special attention when cleaning:
1. Vacuum Loose Debris
Use a handheld vacuum to suck up surface-level dirt between woven strands of wicker. This lifts debris from deep crevices.
2. Remove Stains Carefully
For stains, gently blot soaked cloth with soapy water or wicker cleaner. Avoid vigorous scrubbing that can damage the woven material.
3. Clean With A Soft Brush
Use a soft brush and mild soapy water to gently scrub overall. Dip the tips of the brush in soapy water and lightly brush to lift dirt.
4. Rinse and Air Dry
Rinse wicker thoroughly with clean water, ideally from a hose. Pat dry with soft towels and allow to fully air dry. Avoid leaving wet wicker in direct sunlight.
5. Freshen With Wicker Sealer
Once dry, spray on a light coat of wicker sealer and polish for protection and sheen. Buff with a dry cloth.
Take extra care when cleaning wicker to avoid fraying, peeling, or unweaving. Work gently and avoid wire brushes or stiff scrub pads.
Cleaning Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic furniture is common outdoors thanks to its affordability and weather-resistance. Follow these steps:
1. Spray Away Loose Dirt
Use a garden hose to spray down the furniture and rinse away surface debris like dust and pollen.
2. Make a Soapy Solution
Mix a few drops of dish soap or laundry detergent into warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage plastic.
3. Scrub With a Soft Brush
Use a soft-bristle scrub brush dipped in the soapy solution to scrub stains. Apply light pressure to avoid scratching.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse all soap residue using a hose or bucket of clean water. Wipe dry with soft towels. Allow to fully air dry.
5. Apply Plastic Protectant (Optional)
Spray a light coat of automobile bumper polish, acrylic sealant or plastic protectant for added protection and shine.
Take care not to use abrasive brushes or scouring pads on plastic furniture, which can leave unsightly scratches. Work gently to clean.
How to Deep Clean Outdoor Furniture
For outdoor furniture that’s extremely dirty, follow these steps for deep cleaning:
1. Hose Off Initial Grime
Use a high-pressure setting on your hose to blast off caked-on dirt, debris, bird droppings, etc. from all surfaces and crevices.
2. Make a Stronger Cleaning Solution
For tougher grime, mix 1/4 cup powdered laundry detergent into 1 gallon of hot water. Or use a specialty outdoor furniture cleaner.
3. Scrub Vigorously With a Stiff Brush
Use a stiff nylon scrub brush and concentrated cleaning solution to aggressively scrub stains and ingrained dirt. Apply muscle to scrub!
4. Rinse Extensively
Blast furniture with high-pressure water and rinse very thoroughly until all suds are gone. Wipe down with clean towels.
5. Allow to Dry Completely
Leave furniture in direct sunlight to allow all moisture to fully evaporate. This prevents mold and mildew growth.
6. Re-Seal and Protect
Once completely dry, reapply wood sealants, plastic protectants, or wicker sealers to restore protection from the elements.
Deep cleaning is occasionally needed for outdoor furniture exposed to heavy use and harsh weather. Take safety precautions when using power washers or stiff brushes.
Cleaning Outdoor Fabric Furniture
Outdoor fabric furniture like cushions, umbrellas, hammocks, etc require gentler cleaning methods. Follow these guidelines:
1. Brush Away Loose Debris
Use a soft-bristle hand brush to brush off dried dirt and debris from fabric furniture. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
2. Vacuum Thoroughly
Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to thoroughly vacuum all surfaces of fabric furniture. Get into seams and crevices.
3. Spot Clean Stains
Spot treat any stains on fabric using a diluted upholstery cleaner, soap solution, or bleach-free oxygenated cleaner.
4. Rinse Away Residue
If using cleaning solutions, rinse all furniture thoroughly with clean water to prevent residue buildup and accelerate drying.
5. Air Dry Thoroughly
Allow fabric furniture to completely air dry before re-installing or storing away. Never put wet fabrics away!
6. Freshen With Fabric Protector
Once fully dry, spray on a fabric protector like Scotchguard to repel future stains and block UV damage.
Take extra care when cleaning delicate fabrics. Avoid overly abrasive scrubbing and harsh chemicals that can degrade or discolor fabrics.
Cleaning Straps and Fasteners
Don’t forget small details like straps, fasteners, zippers when cleaning outdoor furniture:
- Wipe down straps with a soapy cloth and scrub gently with an old toothbrush to remove grime and restore suppleness. Rinse and air dry fully.
- Spray soapy water into zippers and crevices. Scrub with an old toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly. Apply lubricant to prevent sticking.
- Loosen stuck fasteners by spraying lubricant and allowing it to penetrate for 5-10 minutes. Gently wiggle and remove fasteners to clean separately.
- Remove stubborn stains on straps using diluted bleach or oxygenated cleaner applied carefully with a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly.
- Scrub velcro fastener pads gently with a soapy brush. Rinse fully and allow to dry before reattaching. Prolong velcro life!
Paying attention to hardware keeps everything functioning properly and extends the life of your outdoor furniture.
How to Maintain Outdoor Furniture
Regular maintenance keeps your outdoor furniture looking its best:
- Inspect furniture at least monthly and clean promptly when needed
- Wash fabric cushions and umbrella covers regularly
- Re-apply protective sealers and polishes as needed per manufacturer instructions
- Lubricate moving parts like hinges or swivels to prevent sticking
- Check for splinters, loose screws, fraying, dents or other damage and fix promptly
- Cover furniture or store indoors over winter in cold climates
- Avoid leaving furniture under snow loads or water puddles which can damage it
- Consider furniture covers for extra protection when not in use
With proper care, your patio, deck, and garden furniture can stay in great shape and last for years of outdoor enjoyment! Maintain your investment with regular cleaning and upkeep.
FAQs About Cleaning Outdoor Furniture
How do you clean outdoor cushions?
- Vacuum debris from outdoor fabric cushions using a handheld vacuum with brush attachment.
- Spot clean stains gently using a diluted upholstery cleaner or oxygenated bleach.
- Rinse away residue and allow cushions to fully air dry before replacing on furniture.
How do you get mildew off outdoor cushions?
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist mildewy areas and allow the solution to soak for 15 minutes.
- Scrub gently using a soft bristle brush, then rinse cushions thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow cushions to dry completely in direct sunlight to prevent remildewing.
What is the best way to clean outdoor wicker furniture?
Use a vacuum and soft brush to remove loose debris. Make a mild soapy solution and dip a soft brush to lightly scrub stains and dirt. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry before applying a wicker sealer for protection. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
How do you clean plastic outdoor furniture?
Spray plastic furniture with a hose to rinse away surface debris. Make a diluted soapy solution and use a soft scrub brush to gently clean. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry, then apply plastic protectant for added shine.
What is the easiest way to clean outdoor furniture?
The easiest method is to spray furniture thoroughly with a garden hose to remove surface debris like dirt, pollen or bird droppings. For deeper cleaning, make a soap solution and scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse – avoid stiff brushes that can damage furniture.
How do you deep clean outdoor patio furniture?
To deep clean extremely dirty outdoor furniture, start by blasting grime away with a high pressure hose. Make a concentrated soap solution with laundry detergent and scrub vigorously with a stiff scrub brush. Rinse thoroughly until all suds are gone. Allow to fully dry before resealing.
What should you not use to clean outdoor furniture?
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia or acidic cleaners that can strip finishes. Do not use stiff wire brushes or scouring pads that scratch. Avoid applying excess pressure when scrubbing delicate surfaces like wicker or fabric.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and maintenance helps outdoor patio sets, benches, chairs, tables, and ottomans stay looking fresh in the elements. Follow these tips to properly clean wood, plastic, wicker, fabric, and other outdoor furniture materials. Invest a little time and elbow grease now to enjoy your outdoor living space all season long!
Be sure to use mild cleaning solutions and soft brushes to avoid damaging delicate outdoor furniture surfaces. Rinse thoroughly after washing and allow all pieces to dry completely before storing or replacing cushions. Maintain your outdoor furniture properly and it can provide many years of outdoor living enjoyment.