Outdoor Cabinets | Factory Direct

How to Keep Outdoor Furniture Clean

Outdoor furniture brings style and comfort to patios, decks, and yards. However, exposure to the elements can leave outdoor furniture dirty and weathered. With the right cleaning methods and maintenance, you can keep your outdoor furniture looking like new. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to clean all types of outdoor furniture effectively.

Cleaning Wood Furniture

Wood furniture requires gentle cleaning to avoid damage. Follow these tips for keeping wood patio sets pristine.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush or sponge
  • Mild dish soap
  • Water
  • Clean cloths
  • Olive oil, linseed oil, or wood polish/cleaner
  • Pressure washer (optional)

Routine Cleaning

Perform quick cleaning before and after use during patio season.

  • Brush loose dirt off furniture.
  • Make a mild soap solution of 2 tablespoons soap per 1 gallon water.
  • Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently wash the wood.
  • Rinse furniture thoroughly with clean water.
  • Blot furniture dry with a soft towel. Allow to air dry fully.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean wood furniture at the start and end of the season.

  • Remove cushions and covers. Wash separately.
  • Mix mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Use a soft brush to scrub entire surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Spray stubborn spots with hose on jet setting.
  • Allow furniture to dry completely.
  • Apply new coat of wood polish, oil, or protectant. Allow to fully absorb.
  • Buff with soft cloth.

Avoiding Damage

  • Do not use abrasive scrub brushes or scouring pads.
  • Skip harsh cleaners like bleach solutions, which can discolor and deteriorate wood.
  • Oil furniture regularly to prevent drying and splitting.
  • Use furniture covers or bring indoors over winter.

Pressure Washing

  • Use lowest pressure setting under 1500 psi.
  • Keep nozzle at least 1 foot away from wood.
  • Apply wood cleaner first. Let soak 5 minutes before spraying off.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Blot dry. Allow to air dry fully in shade.
  • Re-oil wood after pressure washing.

Cleaning Wicker Furniture

Wicker requires special care to avoid fraying or breaking the woven material. Here is how to clean wicker properly.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush
  • Mild detergent
  • Water
  • Clean cloths
  • Tack cloth
  • Protectant spray

Routine Cleaning

Gently wash wicker pieces after use to prevent staining.

  • Sweep loose dirt off with soft brush.
  • Fill bucket with warm, soapy water. Use mild detergent like dish soap.
  • Dip soft cloth in solution. Wring out thoroughly.
  • Gently wipe down all wicker surfaces.
  • Rinse with clean cloth and water.
  • Blot dry with towel. Allow to fully air dry.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean wicker each spring and fall.

  • Vacuum crevices to remove embedded dirt.
  • Use soft brush and soapy water to clean entire piece.
  • For stubborn dirt, let sudsy water sit on spots 5 minutes before scrubbing.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Use clean section of cloth for each piece.
  • Once dry, wipe down with tack cloth to remove dust.
  • Apply protectant spray made for wicker. Allow to fully dry.

Avoiding Damage

  • Test cleaning products on inconspicuous spot first.
  • Avoid getting wicker too wet, which can lead to mildew.
  • Blot damp spots with towel rather than rubbing.
  • Skip bleach and harsh chemicals that deteriorate wicker.
  • Bring wicker indoors or use waterproof cover over winter.

Power Washing Risks

  • Pressure washing can damage and split wicker fibers. Avoid power washing.
  • If power washing, use fan-shaped nozzle at least 12 inches away.
  • Spray light, even coats across surface. Never concentrate in one spot.
  • Allow wicker to dry fully in shade before applying protectant.

Cleaning Fabric Cushions

Outdoor fabric cushions handle a lot of use. Follow these tips to clean, disinfect, and store cushions properly.

Supplies Needed

  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Oxygen-based bleach (optional)
  • Soft brush
  • Water
  • Clean cloths
  • Fabric protectant spray

Routine Cleaning

Clean spills right away before they set in.

  • Blot excess liquid immediately with clean towel.
  • Mix mild detergent with warm water.
  • Use soft brush and solution to spot clean stain.
  • Rinse area thoroughly. Blot dry.

Deep Cleaning

Weekly deep cleaning keeps cushions fresh.

  • Remove covers and wash on gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry.
  • Hand wash the foam cushion with sudsy water. Rinse thoroughly. Air dry.
  • Once dry, spray fabric protectant on covers and foam before replacing cover.

Disinfecting

Regular disinfecting kills germs and bacteria.

  • Make a sanitizing bleach solution of 1 tablespoon bleach per 1 gallon of water.
  • Wipe covers down with bleach solution. Let sit 10 minutes.
  • Rinse solution off with clean cloth and water. Allow to fully air dry.
  • Bleach can also be added to wash cycles for disinfection.

Storage

Protect cushions in storage between seasons.

  • Clean and disinfect cushions at end of season.
  • Allow cushions to fully air dry before storing. Dampness breeds mildew.
  • Place Dr. Scholl’s Odor Destroyers in storage bins to prevent mustiness.
  • Store cushions upright rather than stacking to prevent crushing.
  • Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture. Use breathable fabric bags or bins.

Avoiding Damage

  • Immediately treat spills to prevent permanent staining.
  • Wash cushion covers regularly to prevent fabric deterioration.
  • Allow foam and fabric to dry fully before replacing covers.
  • Use fabric protectant spray to repel water and prevent stains.

Cleaning Mesh Furniture

Mesh outdoor furniture dries quickly after storms and sprinklers. Keep it clean with these tips.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush
  • Mild soap and water
  • Clean cloths
  • Disinfectant wipes or spray
  • Protectant spray

Routine Cleaning

Quick clean mesh furniture before and after each use.

  • Use soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris between mesh strands.
  • Mix 2 tablespoons mild detergent with 1 gallon warm water.
  • Dip cloth in solution. Wring out thoroughly.
  • Gently wipe mesh to remove dirt, grime, and other deposits.
  • Rinse with clean cloth dipped in cool water.
  • Blot dry with towel. Allow to fully air dry.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean mesh at the beginning and end of patio season.

  • Vacuum crevices of frame to remove embedded dirt and grime.
  • Scrub entire surface with sudsy water and soft brush.
  • For tough stains, allow soap solution to sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Blot dry.
  • Once dry, apply a protectant spray made for outdoor mesh furniture.

Disinfecting

Regular disinfecting keeps mesh germ-free.

  • Wipe mesh down with disinfectant wipes or spray monthly.
  • Let disinfectant solution sit for 10 minutes before wiping dry with clean cloth.
  • Bleach solution of 1 T bleach per 1 gallon water can also be used. Rinse thoroughly.

Avoiding Damage

  • Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the mesh material.
  • Rinse away soap solution thoroughly after washing.
  • Blot damp areas rather than rubbing to prevent snags.
  • Bring mesh furniture indoors or cover over winter.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Furniture

Follow these steps to clean stainless steel outdoor furniture properly without damage:

Supplies Needed

  • Soft cloth
  • Warm water
  • Mild soap
  • Stainless steel cleaner
  • Olive oil or mineral oil
  • Soft brush

Routine Cleaning

Perform quick cleaning weekly during patio season.

  • Rinse furniture with garden hose to remove surface dirt.
  • Make a mild soap and warm water solution.
  • Dip soft cloth in solution. Wring out thoroughly.
  • Wipe down stainless steel to lift dirt and grease.
  • Rinse with clean water. Wipe dry with soft cloth.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean stainless steel furniture each season.

  • Mix stainless steel cleaner with warm water per label instructions.
  • Use a soft brush and solution to scrub entire surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean soft towel.
  • Apply a thin coat of olive oil or mineral oil to seal and protect the steel. Buff gently.

Avoiding Damage

  • Avoid abrasive scrub brushes, pads, or cleaners.
  • Always scrub lightly in the direction of the grain.
  • Prevent rust by drying thoroughly after washing.
  • Apply oil protectant regularly.

Removing Rust

  • Rub rusted spots gently with fine steel wool and stainless steel cleaner.
  • Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • Apply olive oil to help resist future rust.

Storage

  • Dry thoroughly and apply a protective oil coat before winter storage.
  • Cover stainless steel furniture to protect it from moisture and corrosion.
  • Check periodically for rust spots and re-oil as needed.

Cleaning Plastic Outdoor Furniture

Plastic patio furniture needs proper care and cleaning to prevent fading and cracking.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush
  • Mild detergent
  • Water
  • Soft cloth
  • All-purpose plastic cleaner/polish

Routine Cleaning

Clean plastic furniture with each use to prevent buildup.

  • Sweep loose debris with soft brush.
  • Make warm, soapy water with dish soap.
  • Dip cloth in solution. Wring thoroughly.
  • Wipe down all surfaces. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
  • Rinse with clean water. Dry with towel.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean plastic furniture at the start and end of each season.

  • Hose down the furniture and allow to air dry.
  • Apply plastic cleaner and polish with soft cloth.
  • Buff dry with clean cloth.
  • For tough stains, spray plastic cleaner and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Avoiding Damage

  • Avoid abrasive brushes and scouring pads.
  • Skip harsh chemicals like bleach that can discolor plastic.
  • Avoid pressure washing, which can damage plastic.
  • Use UV-protectant plastic polish to prevent sun damage.

Storage

  • Clean thoroughly and apply plastic polish before winter storage.
  • Store furniture indoors or cover to protect from sun damage and cracking.

Cleaning Aluminum Patio Furniture

Lightweight yet durable aluminum outdoor furniture stays beautiful with regular cleaning:

Supplies Needed

  • Soft cloth
  • Mild detergent
  • Warm water
  • Aluminum cleaner/polish
  • Soft bristle brush

Routine Cleaning

Wipe down aluminum furniture after each use.

  • Mix 2 tablespoons mild detergent with 1 gallon warm water.
  • Dip soft cloth in solution. Wring thoroughly.
  • Wipe away dirt, grime, and residue from aluminum surfaces.
  • Rinse with clean water. Wipe dry.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean aluminum patio sets seasonally.

  • Hose furniture to loosen and rinse away surface debris.
  • Make cleaning solution of warm water and aluminum cleaner.
  • Use soft brush to scrub entire surface with solution.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Wipe dry with soft cloth.
  • Apply aluminum polish. Buff lightly until shiny.

Avoiding Damage

  • Never use abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, which will scratch aluminum.
  • Skip bleach and harsh chemicals that can pit and corrode aluminum.
  • Rinse away cleaning solutions thoroughly. Prolonged contact damages protective oxidized layer.

Storage

  • Dry thoroughly and apply polish protectant before winter storage.
  • Store furniture indoors or cover to prevent corrosion and pitting.

Cleaning Glass Surfaces

Glass tops add a sleek touch to patio tables. Keep them sparkling clean with proper care.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Squeegee
  • Mild dish detergent
  • Warm water
  • Glass cleaner

Routine Cleaning

Clean table tops after each use.

  • Rinse glass with water to remove surface debris.
  • Make warm, soapy water. Use mild detergent.
  • Wipe soapy water over surface with sponge or cloth.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Dry and polish with squeegee.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean glass seasonally.

  • Sweep glass to remove gritty debris that can scratch.
  • Apply glass cleaner to entire surface.
  • Wipe clean using soft cloth.
  • Buff dry with microfiber cloth or paper towel.

Avoiding Damage

  • Never use abrasive scouring pads, scrub brushes, or cleaners.
  • Do not let debris sit on glass. Remove promptly to avoid scratching.
  • Avoid over-scrubbing any one area, which can damage protective coating.

Hard Water Stain Removal

  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
  • Dip cloth in solution and wipe marks.
  • Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Storage

  • Ensure glass tops are completely clean and dry before covering for seasonal storage.
  • Use furniture covers that fit snugly to prevent abrasion between glass and cover.

Upholstery Furniture Care

Upholstered patio furniture needs special attention to keep the fabric looking fresh and new.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush or vacuum
  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Soft cloth
  • Fabric protectant spray

Routine Cleaning

Clean spills right away before staining can occur.

  • Blot away excess liquid immediately with clean towel.
  • Mix mild detergent with warm water.
  • Use soft brush to spot clean spill.
  • Rinse area thoroughly with clean water.
  • Blot dry.

Deep Cleaning

Perform deep cleaning several times per season.

  • Vacuum or brush away loose dirt.
  • Mix warm water and small amount of mild detergent.
  • Dip soft cloth in solution. Wring thoroughly.
  • Gently wipe entire surface to lift dirt.
  • Rinse with only water. Blot dry.
  • Once fully dry, apply fabric protectant spray.

Disinfecting

Regular disinfecting kills germs and bacteria.

  • Create a 1:10 bleach-to-water solution.
  • Wipe fabric with solution. Allow to sit 10 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly with only water to remove bleach.
  • Allow fabric to completely air dry.

Avoiding Damage

  • Clean spills immediately before staining can occur.
  • Test cleaning solutions on inconspicuous area first.
  • Blot damp areas instead of rubbing to limit damage.
  • Vacuum gently to prevent pilling or snagging fabric.

Storage

  • At end of season, clean and apply fabric protectant spray before covering.
  • Allow upholstered furniture to fully air dry before covering to avoid mold.

Teak Furniture Care

Teak’s natural oils make it resistant to weather and mildew. Keep it looking its best with proper care and cleaning.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft brush
  • Mild detergent
  • Water
  • Teak cleaner
  • Teak sealer (optional)
  • Fine grit sandpaper (optional)

Routine Cleaning

Clean teak each time it’s used to prevent buildup.

  • Sweep loose dirt off with soft brush.
  • Mix mild detergent with warm water.
  • Use soft cloth dipped in solution to wash table.
  • Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry.

Deep Cleaning

Deep clean teak furniture at beginning and end of patio season.

  • Make warm, soapy water with dish soap.
  • Use soft brush and solution to scrub entire surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Allow teak to completely dry.
  • Apply teak cleaning oil to recondition and protect wood.

Removing Stains

  • For stubborn stains, apply teak cleaner and allow to sit for 10 minutes.
  • Scrub gently with soft brush before rinsing.

Avoiding Damage

  • Avoid abrasive brushes that can scratch teak.
  • Never use bleach solutions, which can discolor teak.
  • Wipe spills promptly to avoid permanent staining.

Restoring Graying Teak

  • Lightly sand with fine grit sandpaper to remove grayed top layer.
  • Apply teak sealer to freshly sanded wood to protect and prevent graying.

Storage

  • Clean thoroughly and allow teak to fully dry before covering for storage.
  • Check for mildew growth during storage. Wipe away any visible mold promptly.

Iron Patio Furniture Care

Wrought iron furniture requires special care and maintenance to prevent rust.

Supplies Needed

  • Soft cloth
  • Mild detergent
  • Warm water
  • Rust remover/inhibitor
  • Touch-up paint

Routine Cleaning

Wipe down iron regularly to prevent rust formation.

  • Mix 2 tablespoons mild detergent with 1 gallon warm water.
  • Dip cloth in solution. Wring out thoroughly

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