How to clean outdoor furniture?

Cleaning outdoor furniture regularly not only extends its lifespan but also ensures your outdoor living space remains inviting and presentable.

For most general cleaning, a simple yet effective solution is to mix mild dish soap and warm water in a bucket. This gentle, soapy solution, applied with a soft cloth, can effectively wipe away common outdoor grime like dirt, dust, and pollen from various surfaces.

General Cleaning Steps

Before diving into specific materials, follow these basic steps for most outdoor furniture:

1. Remove Loose Debris: Brush off loose dirt, leaves, and cobwebs using a soft-bristle brush or vacuum.
2. Prepare Cleaning Solution: In a bucket, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
3. Apply and Scrub: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy solution and wipe down the furniture. For tougher spots or intricate areas, use a soft-bristle brush.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Use a garden hose to rinse off all the soap residue. Ensure no soap remains, as it can attract more dirt over time.
5. Dry Completely: Allow the furniture to air dry thoroughly in the sun, or wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and mildew.

Cleaning Specific Outdoor Furniture Materials

Different materials require slightly varied approaches to ensure effective cleaning without causing damage.

Plastic & Resin Furniture

Plastic and resin are durable and easy to clean.

• Basic Cleaning: Use the mild dish soap and warm water solution mentioned above.
• Tough Stains/Scuffs: For stubborn dirt or scuff marks, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge before rinsing.
• Mold/Mildew: A solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water, or a very diluted bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water), can effectively remove mold and mildew. Always rinse well.

Wood Furniture (Teak, Cedar, Acacia, etc.)

Wood furniture, while beautiful, requires more gentle care to preserve its finish.

• General Cleaning: Use the mild dish soap and warm water solution. Scrub gently with a soft brush along the wood grain.
• Mold/Mildew: Mix a solution of 1/4 cup household bleach (or oxygen bleach) with 1 gallon of water. Apply with a soft brush, let sit briefly, then rinse thoroughly. For teak, specialized teak cleaners are also available.
• Maintenance: After cleaning, consider applying a wood protector or teak oil to maintain its appearance and protect against weather damage, especially for hardwoods like teak that weather to a silvery-gray patina if not oiled.

Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Wrought Iron, Steel)

Metal furniture is robust but can be prone to rust or oxidation.

• Aluminum: Clean with mild dish soap and warm water. Aluminum is rust-resistant but can oxidize. Avoid abrasive cleaners that might scratch the finish.
• Wrought Iron & Steel: Use mild dish soap and warm water. For rust spots, gently scrub with a wire brush or steel wool. After cleaning, dry completely and consider applying a rust-inhibiting primer and paint to prevent future corrosion.
• Maintenance: Regular waxing can add a protective layer to metal surfaces.

Woven & Wicker Furniture (Natural & Synthetic)

Woven furniture can trap dirt in its crevices.

• Initial Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt and debris from the weave.
• Washing: Clean with the mild dish soap and warm water solution, using a soft-bristle brush to get into the crevices.
• Rinsing & Drying: Rinse thoroughly with a hose, ensuring all soap is removed. Allow it to air dry completely, preferably in the sun, to prevent mildew.

Outdoor Fabric & Cushions

Many outdoor fabrics are designed to be durable and fade-resistant, but regular cleaning is still essential.

• Loose Debris: Vacuum cushions regularly to remove dust, pollen, and crumbs.
• Spot Cleaning: For small stains, mix mild dish soap with water and blot the stain with a soft cloth. Rinse the area with clean water.
• Mold/Mildew: For colorfast fabrics like Sunbrella, prepare a solution of 1/4 cup mild soap, 1 cup bleach, and 1 gallon of water. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Apply the solution, scrub with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. For other fabrics, a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can be effective.
• Machine Washing: Check care tags – some cushion covers are removable and machine-washable. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Drying: Always allow cushions and fabrics to dry completely before storing or placing them back on furniture to prevent mildew growth.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Having the right tools makes the cleaning process much easier:

• Bucket: For mixing cleaning solutions.
• Mild Dish Soap: Gentle on most surfaces.
• Soft Cloths/Sponges: For wiping surfaces.
• Soft-Bristle Brush: Useful for scrubbing dirt from crevices and textured surfaces.
• Garden Hose with Spray Nozzle: For rinsing.
• Vacuum Cleaner: With attachments for cushions and woven furniture.
• Baking Soda: For tough stains on plastic.
• White Vinegar: A natural cleaner and mildew remover.
• Household Bleach (diluted): For stubborn mold/mildew on certain materials.
• Optional: Specialized wood or metal cleaners, furniture polish, furniture covers.

Quick Stain Removal Guide

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Regular Dusting: A quick wipe-down weekly can prevent dirt buildup.
• Use Furniture Covers: Protect your furniture from harsh weather, sun, and dirt when not in use.
• Store Cushions Indoors: Bring cushions indoors during inclement weather or the off-season to protect them from moisture and pests.
• Address Spills Promptly: Clean spills immediately to prevent staining.