Outdoor furniture takes a beating over the seasons. Sun and weather beat down onto them all year. These are the best ways to maintain your patio furniture to keep them looking their best.
Cleaning
Clean your patio furniture at the start of each season and as needed during the summer months. Do not power wash your patio furniture unless the manufacturer says it is safe. Power washing can be very hard on patio furniture. Instead, wipe furniture down with a damp microfiber cloth. If it is particularly dirty use a cleaner that is safe for that type of surface.
Wood furniture will need to be cleaned with an oil based soap. The cleanser is mild enough it won’t ruin the finish of your wood furniture. The oil will help hydrate and protect to extend the life of your wood patio furniture.
Metal furniture can be cleaned with a cloth and a multi-purpose cleaner. Watch for rust spots. If spotted remove with a mild abrasive cleaner or some steel wool. After cleaning the surface touch up with more paint.
Plastic furniture is the easiest to maintain. Use a multi-purpose cleaner that is free of abrasives. A simple mixture of dish soap and water will do the trick. Adding a little coconut oil to a soft cloth and wiping down your plastic furniture will restore the shine.
Upholstered fabrics need to check the care instructions and follow the manufacturers instructions on the best way to clean the fabric. Some cushions will be made with removable covers that can be washed in the laundry machine. Others will be sewn in place and will need to be cleaned with a cloth and some mild soap and water.
Extra Protection
You may want to add extra protection from the elements by putting a slipcover over your patio furniture when not in use. There are sprays and oils that can be applied to patio furniture to help wick away moisture.