How to keep you outdoor furniture in tip top condition
How often should I clean my garden furniture?
- Whatever the material of your furniture, it should be protected from the elements when not in use, ideally store away over the winter months, cleaning and drying thoroughly beforehand and again in the spring when you bring it out for use. During the summer it is a good idea to tackle any stains or marks that occur straight away and generally keeping it clean as you would your indoor furniture.
Plastic outdoor furniture
- Plastic outdoor furniture is going to be more resilient to the elements than metal and wood and is definitely the easiest to clean. First clean off any stains or marks with a soft detergent and then simply hose it down. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing brushes as this can scratch the furniture and for a nice shine try using your regular furniture polish.
Metal outdoor furniture
- Aluminium is rust free, but still requires regular cleaning, use a high quality car wax for this task.
- Painted metal furniture should be dry before cleaning. Start by cleaning out any dirt from the joints and seams with a soft brush, water and soap and follow with a gentle detergent and water, which is an effective and hassle free way of keeping the furniture clean. Store the furniture indoors, if possible, when not in use and ensure it is dry when you do so.
- For wrought iron furniture, clean with mild soap and water and leaving to dry out thoroughly. It is a good idea when cleaning to tilt the “feet” to ensure they dry properly.
Awnings, umbrellas and cushions
- These materials have a tendency to attract mildew (mould that grows on fabric). To tackle it use a non-ammonia soap or dishwashing detergent and if it is a pale or white fabric use a non-chlorine bleach solution to remove mouldy spots and stains. Always rinse and dry thoroughly. Vinyl materials can be cleaned with convertible car hood cleaning products.
Wood
- Wood furniture should be stored indoors and be cleaned once or twice a year. The best way to do this is by gentle scrubbing with mild detergent and hosing down with a low pressure hose. Again dry before use.
If mould and mildew does occur it is important to clean thoroughly and efficiently before exposing older people, infants and children who can be vulnerable to its negative effects. People who are affected by coming into contact with mould can suffer from watery eyes, nasal congestion, itching sneezing, runny noses, headaches and fatigue.
For more cleaning advice from the experts or to find your nearest Merry Maids find your local or call 0800 021 3072.
