How to Clean Outdoor Furniture - Cleaning Outdoor Furniture

Proper cleaning of outdoor furniture depends on the type of furniture. Many people prefer aluminum or plastic, while others still cherish the luxury and comfort of wooden furniture. Cleaning and maintenance of different types of furniture can vary to an extent. Along with cleaning, proper care and maintenance is also important to prevent any severe damage. It will also help you prolong the lifespan of your furniture and maintain their look.

How to Clean Outdoor Furniture
Cleaning outdoor furniture is a bit difficult than indoor furniture, simply due to the fact that they have to sustain the harsh outside environment. Therefore, they are more susceptible to dirt, dust and stains. Here are some simple and easy tips on how to clean outdoor furniture.

Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Cleaning plastic outdoor furniture is quite easy. If it is plastic patio furniture, then it is made of resin plastic, which makes it more durable. But some porous finishing can make it a bit vulnerable to stains. For cleaning plastic furniture, a mild detergent solution can be used. Use a sponge to apply the solution and wipe it. Then rinse off the detergent with clean water.

Patio umbrellas and hammocks can also be washed with dishwashing detergent and warm water. After washing them, place them in sunlight to dry completely. Applying automotive paste wax will help protect new furniture from moisture and stains and make further cleaning easier. For removing mildew from the umbrella and furniture, you can mix a small amount of bleach in the detergent solution. However, it is advisable to not use bleach for cleaning hammocks, as it can weaken the fibers.

Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
Aluminum outdoor furniture generally comes in two forms, painted and non-painted. Non-painted aluminum furniture may lose its luster over the years due to oxidization. However, they are rust resistant and to restore the former shine, a metal polishing paste can be used. The abrasive materials present in such a paste will help remove corrosion caused by oxidization. Remember to avoid alkaline cleaners like ammonia on aluminum furniture. However, vinegar can be used for cleaning such furniture.

Painted aluminum furniture can be easily cleaned with mild soap or detergent mixed with water. Before cleaning any outdoor furniture, always remove the cushions. It is important to wipe the cushions regularly and keep them dry. Otherwise mildew can develop, which is quite difficult to remove. For cleaning cushions, soak them in a solution of detergent and water. Then rinse in clean water and let them dry in sunlight. A solution of detergent and bleach works well for removing mildew, however, using bleach on colored cushions can damage the color and the fabric.

Iron Outdoor Furniture
The greatest drawback of iron furniture is perhaps the fact that they rust so easily. But nowadays many of them come in rust resistant forms. If your iron furniture is not rust resistant, then regularly check and if you find rust, immediately sand it. Then apply a rust resistant paint. For cleaning iron furniture, use a mild detergent and gently scrub them. Then rinse them using a garden hose. Applying an automotive paste wax can provide a protective covering against moisture and can help avoid rusting.

Wood Outdoor Furniture
It is better to keep wood furniture inside during winter, unless they are made of teak or cedar wood. Teak wood is very expensive but it can withstand wet and harsh environments. Use mild detergent to occasionally clean the surface, but do not use abrasive cleaners. It is better to keep them clean from dust and grime on a regular basis to avoid the necessity of heavy cleaning. Before applying any wood cleaner, make sure that it is suitable for that particular type of wood. First use the cleaner in a small inconspicuous area to prevent any major damage. Occasionally, once or twice a year, treat your wood furniture with oil to maintain their majestic look.

Hope these simple tips on cleaning outdoor furniture will help you to keep your patio furniture clean and in mint condition. Also do not forget to refer to the manufacturer's guide on cleaning and maintenance before applying anything on your outdoor furniture.