Introduction
Plastic outdoor chairs are a popular patio furniture choice for many households. They are affordable, lightweight, and available in a wide range of colors and designs. However, plastic chairs can get dirty over time from exposure to the elements, food and drink spills, pollen/dust, and everyday use. Cleaning them regularly will remove grime, help them look new again, and extend their life. With the right cleaning solutions and techniques, you can easily clean plastic outdoor chairs and keep them looking their best.
Supplies Needed
Here are the basic supplies you’ll need to properly clean plastic patio chairs:
- Mild dish soap or detergent
- Warm water
- Sponge or soft-bristled brush
- Old towel or soft cloth
- All-purpose cleaner or degreaser (for tougher stains)
- Garden hose
- Tarp or drop cloths
Avoid abrasive scouring pads, powders, or stiff brushes, as they can scratch and damage the plastic surface.
Cleaning Steps
Follow these steps for cleaning plastic outdoor chairs thoroughly:
Inspect and Remove Debris
- Inspect the chairs closely and brush off any loose dirt, leaves, spiderwebs, bird droppings etc. Check crevices for hidden gunk.
- Shake out chair cushions and remove food crumbs, spills etc.
- Use a dry towel to wipe away surface dust and debris.
Mix Soapy Water
- Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish detergent or soap.
- Mix well until sudsy. The soap helps cut through grease and grime.
Scrub the Plastic
- Dip a soft sponge into the soapy water and wring out excess. Gently scrub all plastic chair surfaces.
- Use a soft brush for textured areas like woven straps. Scrub crevices.
- For tough stains, let soapy water sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
Rinse Thoroughly
- Once scrubbed, use a garden hose or bucket of clean water to rinse away all soap residue.
- Rinse crevices thoroughly – leftover soap can cause buildup later.
Disinfect and Deodorize
- For extra cleaning power, wipe chairs with a disinfectant cleaner after washing. This kills germs and bacteria.
- Or use a deodorizer spray to remove odors and make chairs smell fresh again.
Dry Completely
- After a final rinse, dry the furniture completely with a towel. Allow to air dry in the sun for fastest drying.
- Cushions may need overnight drying.
Maintain Protection
- Consider applying a protectant wax or UV-resistant spray on the cleaned plastic to help prevent future dirt buildup and sun damage.
- Store cushions when not in use and keep chairs free of debris/spills as much as possible.
Tougher Stain Removal
For more stubborn stains or ground-in dirt on plastic chairs, use the following techniques:
- Grease stains – Pre-treat with a degreaser, let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with warm, soapy water and rinse.
- Mildew stains – Use a paste of baking soda and water and scrub gently, then rinse. Or try a mildew stain remover.
- Berry/juice stains – Pre-treat with rubbing alcohol, let sit for 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
- Rust stains – Use a rust removal product, apply and let sit per directions, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
- Scratches – Try rubbing scratched areas with toothpaste using a soft cloth and gentle circular motions. Then rinse.
Avoiding Damage
To keep plastic patio chairs looking new and prevent damage:
- Wipe up spills promptly before they can stain
- Avoid harsh cleaners that can corrode plastic
- Store chairs out of direct sun when possible
- Bring cushions indoors when not in use
- Avoid power washing at close distances
Keep Them Looking New
Cleaning plastic outdoor chairs doesn’t require heavy duty chemicals or a lot of effort. With some mild soap, water, and elbow grease, you can remove built-up dirt and restore the bright, vibrant look of your patio chairs. Establish a quick cleaning routine after heavy use to keep them fresh. With proper care and maintenance, quality plastic furniture can provide many years of outdoor beauty and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you clean plastic patio chairs?
- Plastic patio chairs should be cleaned at least twice a month in the summer when they are in frequent use. Once a month cleaning may be adequate in the cooler months if chairs haven’t been used much.
What’s the best way to dry plastic patio chairs after cleaning?
- Allow plastic chairs to air dry fully in the sun after cleaning. You can also carefully wipe dry with a towel, especially crevices and joints. Avoid putting wet plastic chairs away in storage.
Should you use bleach to clean plastic outdoor furniture?
- No, avoid using bleach when cleaning plastic chairs. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage and discolor the plastic over time. Mild dish soap and warm water is best.
What household items can you use to clean patio chairs?
- Common household cleaning items like dish soap, baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, mild laundry detergent, and all-purpose cleaners work well for most plastic patio chair cleaning needs. Avoid abrasives.
How do you get mold and mildew off plastic chairs?
- To remove mold and mildew, first scrub with warm, soapy water. For more stubborn growth, use a baking soda paste or mild bleach-free mold remover, let sit, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
In summary, regular cleaning with mild soap and water using proper techniques will keep your plastic patio chairs looking like new for many seasons. Establish a quick cleaning routine and promptly clean up spills or messes. With just a little time and effort, you can enjoy clean, fresh-looking outdoor furniture year after year.