How to Clean Outdoor Furniture

With the warm weather finally making an appearance, it’s time to get your outdoor furniture ready for relaxing, hosting BBQs and socialising with family and friends. 

No one wants to sit on a dirty patio chair or eat off a dirty table. To keep your outdoor furniture looking as good as new, we recommend cleaning it at least four times a year, once at the beginning of summer, once at the end of summer, and a couple of times in between. 

The best method for cleaning outdoor furniture all comes down to what material it is. From DIY cleaning solutions to sanding, our cleaning tips are guaranteed to bring your outdoor furniture back to life after being stowed away during winter. 

How to Clean Wooden Garden Furniture

Removing dirt and grime from wooden garden furniture can be easier than you think with our tips. 

Use a mild oil-based soap, mixed with warm water to create the perfect DIY cleaning solution. You can also use commercial wood cleaners, which are also great for cleaning wooden outdoor furniture, but be sure to read the instructions carefully, as some woods may require the solution to be diluted. 

To get the best out of cleaning your wooden furniture, ensure you are cleaning and wiping down regularly to remove excess water, debris and dirt. For hardwood products, be sure to sand them down and add a fresh coat of protective finish to keep them looking as good as new for longer. 

How to Clean Rattan Garden Furniture 

Synthetic rattan furniture can last up to 20 years, even when left out during winter, but ensure your rattan outdoor furniture has a long lifespan by taking good care of it. There are many ways to look after rattan items, such as:

• Using a wireless hoover or a brush to remove dust and debris.
• Using a fine tool such as a cocktail stick or a toothbrush to remove stubborn debris and dirt.
• Using either a garden hose or warm soapy water to scrub thoroughly to remove the dirt. Using the bubbles from the soapy water to wash the rattan surface, especially in the little crevices. 
• Place the furniture in a well-ventilated area or in the sun to dry. 

And just like that, your rattan garden furniture is ready to enjoy for the summer!

How to Clean Metal Garden Furniture

For outdoor metal furniture, cleaning is essential to keep the shine and helps it last longer. 

The biggest challenge with aluminium products is oxidation. To remove as much of the imperfection as possible, use either a ratio of 1:1 solution of water and white vinegar or a metal polishing paste. Try to avoid using harsh chemicals such as ammonia, and trisodium phosphate, as these contain alkaline, which causes oxidation. 

Keep on top of cleaning metal furniture by: 

• Washing it frequently. 
• Removing rust by gently sanding down the product, this will also remove damaged paint. 
• Removing any scuff marks with a soft, dampened cloth and a non-abrasive cleaning product. 

To protect metal products further after they have been cleaned, add a coat of automotive wax. 

How to Clean Plastic Garden Furniture 

Plastic outdoor furniture can easily gain stains, so cleaning them is essential if you want them to look as good as new. To remove stains and grime, make a mild cleanser by mixing 90g of baking soda with 1 litre of warm water. Avoid using bleach and chlorine on white plastic, as it will eat away at the material. 

For more stubborn stains, use a cloth dampened in white distilled vinegar and wipe down the products. You can also create a mild abrasive that will remove stains but won't scratch by sprinkling baking soda onto a wet sponge. 

How to Clean Glass Garden Furniture

Keeping glass furniture sparkling only involves a few simple cleaning steps. Start by removing any debris that is stuck on the glass. Use a non-abrasive, glass-safe cleanser with a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down any dirt. Avoid anything that may cause damage, such as scratches. 

After the initial cleaning, use a glass cleaner and wipe down both sides of the glass with a microfibre cloth or paper towel. Do this at least once a month to prevent grime from getting stuck.

If your glass furniture is not in use, we recommend covering it to avoid scratches and chips that may occur. 

Garden Furniture Covers

One of the most effective ways to keep your garden furniture looking great is furniture covers. These are especially useful for the winter or when it rains. The best type of covers are made of polyester with a PVC backing and water-taped seams. They are brilliant for furniture made from all materials as they are both breathable and showerproof. 

Get your garden ready for summer; shop our outdoor furniture today!