How to Clean Outdoor Furniture: A Weekend Guide to Make It Look New Again

Regular maintenance can substantially extend your outdoor furniture's lifespan. The process of cleaning outdoor furniture protects your investment while keeping everything looking fresh.

Environmental elements take their toll on outdoor sofas and chairs. Constant exposure to dust, dirt, rain and UV rays dulls their appearance over time. Regular cleaning keeps them looking great and makes them last longer.

The best results come from cleaning your outdoor furniture four times yearly. Expert recommendations suggest a thorough clean at summer's start and end, plus two maintenance sessions between those times. Protective covers become crucial accessories if you lack indoor storage space, especially through winter months.

This piece guides you through everything to refresh your outdoor setting, whatever material you have. Your furniture could be teak with its natural resistance to elements or powder-coated metals needing gentle care to preserve their finish. Let's restore your outdoor furniture to its original glory!

Get Ready: What to Know Before You Start

A few minutes of preparation before you start cleaning will save time and protect your outdoor furniture from damage. Good preparation helps you clean better without harming delicate materials or finishes.

Check furniture material and manufacturer instructions

The first step is to identify your outdoor furniture's material because different materials need specific cleaning approaches. Wood, metal, wicker, fabric, and plastic each need special care to stay looking good and stay strong. Teak furniture has natural resistance to decay and insects but needs proper maintenance to stay clean. Aluminium won't rust but needs the right cleaning to keep its looks.

You should read the manufacturer's instructions before you start cleaning. Many warranties become void if you don't clean the right way. It's worth mentioning that you need to check any specific warnings about your furniture material. This might take extra time but prevents damage that could get pricey to fix or replace.

Commercial-grade stainless steel furniture (316 EP grade) needs different cleaning than powder-coated aluminium. Synthetic rattan wicker can handle all types of weather and needs less maintenance than natural materials.

Gather simple cleaning supplies

Once you know your furniture's material, get your cleaning supplies ready. Most outdoor furniture needs:

• Mild dish soap or pH-neutral detergent (pH 5-8)
• Soft-bristle brushes or sponges for gentle scrubbing
• Clean microfibre cloths or soft white rags
• Garden hose with gentle spray setting
• White vinegar (for mildew and tough stains)
• Baking soda (for oxidation and stubborn stains)

Stay away from harsh chemicals that could damage your furniture. Products with ammonia, chlorine, bleach (unless heavily diluted), alkaline detergents (pH>9), and solvents can harm protective finishes. Tools like steel wool, scrubbing pads, or hard-bristle brushes can scratch surfaces and damage protective coatings.

Choose a shaded, well-ventilated area

Move your furniture to a shaded, well-ventilated area before you start cleaning. Direct sunlight makes cleaning solutions dry too fast and leaves streaks and residue. Some cleaners might react with sunlight and cause discoloration or damage.

Good ventilation lets furniture dry properly and stops mould and mildew that love damp spots. This matters even more when you clean fabric cushions and covers that need to dry completely to avoid musty smells.

Set up your cleaning space where dirty water can drain away instead of collecting around furniture legs. Wooden furniture should sit on blocks during cleaning to help water drain while rinsing.

The right location isn't just about making cleaning easier. It creates the best conditions to clean and dry properly, which then helps your outdoor pieces last longer.

These preparation steps will give you the best results and keep your outdoor furniture looking great for many seasons to come.

Step 1: Remove Dust, Debris and Surface Dirt

A significant first step to restore your outdoor furniture requires removing built-up dirt and debris. The original cleaning phase creates a foundation for deeper cleaning and helps you identify areas that need extra attention.

Shake and vacuum cushions

Outdoor cushions collect dust, pollen, and small debris that can settle deep into the fabric. Remove all detachable cushions and give them a good shake to loosen dirt. This simple step prevents particles from embedding into the fabric fibres.

A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment works best for deeper cleaning. Run it across the surface and focus on seams, crevices, and corners where dirt likes to hide. Take care around buttons or decorative elements to avoid damage from excessive hoovering up. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella need regular vacuuming with low suction to maintain their look without damage.

Brush down frames and wipe surfaces

Each frame material needs its own cleaning approach to remove surface dirt:

• Wood frames: A clean dustpan brush removes loose leaves, twigs, and dust. Focus on horizontal surfaces where debris settles naturally. Teak responds well to a damp cloth after brushing.
• Metal and aluminium: A soft cloth works best to avoid scratching powder-coated finishes. Stay away from abrasive materials that could harm protective coatings.
• Wicker and rattan: These materials need extra care due to their intricate weave. A soft-bristle brush cleans between crevices and removes dust caught in the weave pattern.
• Plastic and resin: A soft cloth or brush removes loose dirt before any cleaners come into play.

Synthetic materials like polypropylene resist fading well. A good brushing removes surface dirt before deeper cleaning starts.

Use a hose with gentle spray for quick rinse

A gentle rinse washes away remaining dust particles after debris removal. Your garden hose needs a soft spray attachment - high-pressure water damages certain materials and finishes.

Keep the hose at a moderate distance and spray surfaces evenly. Water should trickle through wicker pieces to flush out hidden dirt. Medium pressure works best for cushions to avoid soaking the fabric.

Never use pressure washers on outdoor furniture, especially soft woods and wicker. Strong pressure damages surfaces, strips protective coatings, and forces water into joints that could swell or rot.

Let water drain properly after rinsing. Stand cushions on their sides to make water drainage easier and prevent waterlogging. This basic cleaning step improves appearance and sets up your furniture for more detailed cleaning later.

Step 2: Deep Clean by Material Type

Different materials need specific deep cleaning methods to look good again after removing surface dirt. Each piece of furniture needs its own cleaning approach based on what it's made of.

Fabric and cushions: spot clean and wash covers

Outdoor fabrics get stains that need special treatment. Mix mild dish soap with warm water and gently blot the stained spots with a clean cloth to spot clean. Don't scrub too hard as this can harm the fibres. A mixture of 1/4 cup vinegar with 1 quart of warm water works great on tough stains on solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella.

Check the manufacturer's instructions before washing removable cushion covers. Most covers can go in the washing machine on gentle cycle with mild detergent. Let them air dry to avoid shrinking and make sure they're completely dry before putting them back. Non-removable cushions need cleaning with soap and water solution - rinse them well and let them dry in a well-ventilated spot.

Wood: clean, sand and seal if needed

Each type of wood needs its own cleaning method. Teak and other hardwoods clean up nicely with mild oil-based soap like Murphy Oil Soap mixed in warm water. You can also make your own solution with 1/4 cup ammonia, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, and 1 quart warm water.

Use a soft brush to apply the mixture and work along the wood grain. Rinse it well and let it dry completely. Light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper can bring back weathered wood's natural beauty. A protective finish like oil, stain, or polyurethane helps shield the wood from moisture and UV damage. This yearly care makes your furniture last longer.

Metal: remove rust and clean powder coating

Aluminium furniture's biggest problem is oxidation. You can tackle this with a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water, or use metal polishing paste. Stay away from ammonia and trisodium phosphate (TSP) - these alkaline cleaners actually make oxidation worse.

Rusty spots on steel or iron need gentle sanding with fine sandpaper. Wipe them with mineral spirits before adding rust-resistant primer and paint. Powder-coated surfaces need gentle care - mix mild detergent with warm water and clean with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse well and dry completely. A coat or two of automotive wax helps protect the finish.

Wicker and rattan: brush and rinse thoroughly

Wicker's woven pattern makes cleaning tricky but important. Start by loosening dirt from the gaps with a soft brush. Mix mild oil-based soap with warm water for cleaning. Natural rattan responds well to a mix of 1/4 cup ammonia, 2 tablespoons vinegar, and 1 quart warm water.

Use a soft brush to apply the solution carefully without soaking the material. Rinse with clean water and dry in sunlight. Unpainted wicker gets its natural shine back with boiled linseed oil - apply it with a cloth and wipe off extra oil. Give it a few days to soak in before using the furniture.

Plastic and resin: use mild soap and baking soda

Plastic furniture cleans up easily with mild dish soap and warm water - just wipe it down with a soft cloth. Tough stains need a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and clean gently with a sponge.

Each type of plastic needs different care. Polypropylene is light but doesn't handle UV rays well, while High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) lasts longer. Yellowed or stained white plastic needs a mix of 3 tablespoons dishwasher detergent in 1 gallon of warm water. White distilled vinegar on a clean rag works too. Skip the abrasive cleaners and scrubbing brushes - they'll scratch the surface.

Step 3: Tackle Stains, Mould and Mildew

Stubborn stains and mould can show up on outdoor furniture even after regular cleaning. You'll need targeted treatments to deal with these issues. The good news is that common household items can tackle these problems without damaging your outdoor pieces.

Use vinegar solution for mildew

White vinegar really works against mould and mildew because of its acidic properties. You can apply full-strength distilled vinegar directly on affected areas of plastic furniture. Let it sit for about an hour and rinse with warm water. The treatment works better with a second application without rinsing to remove all the mildew.

Your fabric cushions with mildew need:

• A spray of 50/50 white vinegar and water solution on the entire surface
• 10-15 minutes to soak
• A gentle clean with a soft sponge or brush
• A thorough rinse and complete air dry in sunlight

The best results come from treating the whole fabric surface instead of spot-cleaning. This helps you avoid water rings and uneven cleaning marks.

Apply baking soda paste for oxidation

Aluminium furniture's surface can develop a whitish or cloudy film from oxidation. You can restore its look with a thick paste made from baking soda and water. Put this mixture on oxidised areas and wait 10-15 minutes. A gentle scrub with a soft sponge in circular motions will do the trick. This mild abrasive action gets rid of stubborn grime without scratching surfaces.

Metal furniture with tougher oxidation needs a different approach. Start by rinsing with plain water, then sprinkle baking soda while the surface is still wet. Give it an hour, scrub with a soft brush, and finish with a good rinse and complete dry.

Avoid harsh chemicals that damage finishes

Strong cleaners might seem like a quick fix, but they often cause more damage than good. Stay away from cleaners with trisodium phosphate (TSP), ammonia, or undiluted bleach. These chemicals can harm the protective powder coatings on metal furniture.

Alkaline cleaners are the biggest culprits that cause oxidation on aluminium pieces. A pH-neutral detergent works best to clean outdoor furniture. Steel wool or hard-bristle brushes can scratch surfaces and remove protective finishes. These scratches leave your furniture exposed to damage from the elements.

Step 4: Protect and Maintain Your Furniture

Protecting your furniture after cleaning matters just as much as the cleaning itself. Good maintenance will give your outdoor pieces excellent condition through the changing seasons.

Apply UV-protective sprays or wax

The sun's prolonged exposure makes outdoor furniture fade, crack and dry out. Wooden pieces, especially teak and tropical hardwoods, need SunShield or similar products that combine UV inhibitors with carnauba wax, beeswax and orange oil to boost their natural beauty and protection. This unique blend penetrates and replenishes natural oils in outdoor wood furniture effectively. You should apply these protectants whenever your furniture looks faded and dry.

Your fabric furniture needs a UV protectant spray that matches its material type, since products that work for aluminium might damage wood or wicker. Check your furniture's warranty first, as some protectants might void it.

Use furniture covers when not in use

Weatherproof covers offer the quickest way to protect your furniture. Quality covers shield against rain, dirt, bird droppings and stop rust, fading, and mildew from developing. Your covers should have secure fastenings like straps, drawstrings or buckles to stay firmly in place when it's windy.

Choose covers with dry vents that let air circulate without water or dirt getting in. Light-coloured covers stay cooler in sunlight, while darker ones blend better in shaded spots.

Store cushions indoors during bad weather

Fabric cushions need extra care despite their water-resistant properties. Harsh weather will eventually damage all but one of these garden cushions. A dry, cool, well-ventilated space like your garage, finished basement or storage shed makes the perfect storage spot.

Your cushions should stay elevated on shelves or racks to avoid pest problems and moisture damage. If space is tight, wrap them in plastic bin bags or old blankets and add mothballs or cedar sachets to keep pests away.

Conclusion

Your outdoor furniture needs consistent care and proper cleaning techniques based on its materials. Different materials need unique approaches - from gentle cleaning of powder-coated metals to special care for wicker's intricate weaves. Regular maintenance four times a year will substantially extend your furniture's lifespan and preserve its aesthetic appeal.

Common household items like white vinegar and baking soda work well against mildew and oxidation. These simple solutions often work better than harsh chemicals that could damage protective finishes. Having these basic supplies ready will help you handle quick cleanups and seasonal deep cleaning.

Protection matters just as much as cleaning. Quality furniture covers and indoor cushion storage during bad weather will shield your outdoor pieces from damage. UV protectants add another defensive layer against sun damage and fading.

A little effort makes a big difference. Your weekend cleaning routine can refresh tired outdoor furniture and make it ready for entertaining and relaxation. Well-maintained outdoor furniture not only looks better—it lasts longer. This saves you money and provides years of enjoyment.

FAQs

Q1. What are the best cleaning solutions for outdoor furniture? A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water is effective for most outdoor furniture. For tougher stains, a solution of white vinegar and water can be used. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage protective finishes.

Q2. How often should I clean my outdoor furniture? Experts recommend cleaning outdoor furniture four times a year for best results: once at the beginning of summer, once at the end, and twice in between. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your furniture.

Q3. Can I machine wash my outdoor cushion covers? If the covers are removable, check the manufacturer's instructions first. Many can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Always air dry to prevent shrinkage and ensure covers are completely dry before replacing.

Q4. How do I protect my outdoor furniture from sun damage? Apply UV-protective sprays or waxes designed for your furniture's material. For wooden pieces, products combining UV inhibitors with natural waxes can be effective. Always use furniture covers when not in use to provide additional protection.

Q5. What's the best way to remove mildew from outdoor furniture? A solution of equal parts white vinegar and water is effective for treating mildew. Spray the solution on affected areas, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then gently clean with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely in sunlight.