Quick Guide: How to Maintain Your Outdoor Furniture for Long-Term Use
Outdoor furniture is a wonderful addition to your patio, garden, or deck, but it requires proper maintenance to withstand the elements and last for years. Whether you have wicker, metal, or fabric pieces, here’s a quick guide to help you keep your outdoor furniture in top condition:
1. Outdoor Wicker Furniture
- Regular Cleaning: Use plenty of water and a soft brush to clean your outdoor wicker furniture. Avoid harsh cleaning agents and abrasives that can damage the material.
- Stain Prevention: Wipe away spilled food and drinks immediately to prevent permanent stains.
- Avoid Sun Damage: Do not clean in direct sunlight, especially on hot days. Instead, clean during the cooler morning or evening hours for the best results.
- Shampoo Rinse: For an extra clean finish, rinse wicker furniture with a mild shampoo and water mixture.
- Cover When Not in Use: Use protective covers when your furniture is not in use for extended periods. This prevents dust and sun damage.
- Cushion Storage: Store cushions indoors or replace them when not in use to avoid fading or mildew.
2. Outdoor Fabrics and Cushions
- Gentle Cleaning: Follow washing instructions strictly for outdoor fabrics. Using aggressive cleaners can void the warranty on fabric.
- Sunbrella Cushions: For specific stains, follow the cleaning solutions outlined below for Sunbrella outdoor cushions and patio umbrellas.
3. Stain Removal Guide for Outdoor Fabrics
| Stain | Recommended Cleaning Solution |
|---|---|
| Beer | Liquid detergent, white vinegar |
| Berry | Liquid detergent, ammonia (3-6%, water) |
| Bird Droppings | Liquid detergent, ammonia (3-6%, water) or Goo Gone Grease Cutter |
| Blood (Dried) | Liquid detergent, ammonia (3-6%, water) |
| Butter | Volatile solvent (acetone) 100% |
| Charcoal/Pencil Marks | Vacuum, then liquid detergent |
| Chewing Gum | Volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Chocolate | Liquid detergent, ammonia water |
| Coffee | Detergent, white vinegar, volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Cola | Liquid detergent |
| Crayon | Paint, oil, or grease remover |
| Egg (Raw) | Liquid detergent |
| Grape Juice | Liquid detergent (water) |
| Grease (Car) | Volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Ink (Permanent/Ballpoint) | Paint remover, volatile solvent (acetone), detergent |
| Lipstick | Paint, oil, or grease remover |
| Mildew | 1/2 cup bleach, 1/4 cup natural soap per gallon of water |
| Nail Polish | Volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Oil | Volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Paint (Latex, Wet) | Liquid detergent, water |
| Paint (Latex, Dried) | Paint remover, oil, or grease remover |
| Paint (Oil/Lacquer) | Paint remover, oil, or grease remover |
| Shoe Polish (Liquid) | Volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Shoe Polish (Wax) | Apply heated iron over towel, volatile solvent (acetone) |
| Suntan Lotion | Pine Power or pine oil detergent, water (mix as directed) |
| Tea | Liquid detergent |
| Tomato Juice | Liquid detergent |
| Tree Sap | Turpentine, liquid detergent |
| Vomit | Detergent, water, white vinegar |
| Wine | Paint remover, volatile solvent (acetone), detergent, and water |
4. Protection and Storage
- Umbrellas: For patio umbrellas, clean regularly using the recommended solutions for fabric stains, and close or cover them when not in use to avoid sun and weather damage.
- Furniture Covers: Always use covers to protect furniture from rain, sun, and dust when not in use for long periods.
- Off-Season Storage: If possible, store outdoor furniture indoors during extreme weather conditions like winter to extend its lifespan.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your outdoor furniture looking great and functioning well for many years to come.
