How To Maintain Your Outdoor Furniture: Expert Care Guide

Introduction

Keeping your outdoor furniture in excellent condition requires proper maintenance, and this expert care guide offers detailed instructions on how to maintain your outdoor furniture for all kinds of materials. Whether you have wicker, metal, or a beautiful piece of wooden outdoor furniture, each material requires specific care. Although you can skip to the section specific to your furniture material, reading the entire guide will provide you with a thorough understanding. This guide is especially useful for European outdoor furniture, but you can apply it to all styles of furniture. If you’re still in the process of choosing furniture, don’t miss our material guide to help you make an informed decision.

Wicker Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Wicker outdoor furniture can add a charming touch to your space, especially if you’re aiming for a Spanish Villa aesthetic. To ensure maximum longevity and resilience, Remarkable uses high-quality resin wicker, which is designed to withstand the elements better than traditional wicker.

To maintain wicker furniture, start by spraying it with soapy water and letting it sit for about 30 seconds. This loosens dirt and grime, making it easier to clean. Wipe down the wicker with a soft cloth, ensuring you reach into the small crevices created by the woven design. Regular dusting is crucial, as accumulated dust can lead to deterioration over time. For tougher dirt, use a sponge and then rinse with clean water. Always allow your wicker furniture to dry completely in sunlight or a well-ventilated area to prevent mould growth.

It's important to avoid hosing down wicker in extreme weather conditions, such as very hot or cold temperatures. In hot weather, the rapid drying process can cause the material to become brittle and prone to cracking. Conversely, in freezing temperatures, water can seep into the wicker and expand as it freezes, leading to structural damage. For more detailed care instructions, visit our comprehensive guide.

Aluminium Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Lightweight, attractive, and highly durable. Aluminium is a great option for outdoor furniture, especially as it resists rust. It’s commonly seen in Italian gardens, where its robust structure contrasts well with the neutral-coloured stone materials often found in these settings. This high contrast between the dark aluminium and the lighter stone provides a striking visual appeal, making it a popular choice for avid home designers who appreciate modern styling.

To clean aluminium, you can dust it with a damp cloth, then wash it with warm soapy water and rinse it down with a hose and water. You can get specialized products designed for powder-coated aluminium from most hardware stores if you would like to maximise the longevity of your aluminium furniture.

You should regularly maintain your aluminium by using a rust-preventive product on any metal accessories, such as screws or bolts. Don’t use sandpaper, scouring pads, or steel wool on the surface, as they may do permanent damage.

Use a protective cover when you’re not using your furniture, and you can learn more about aluminium outdoor furniture care tips here!

Wood Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Teak Outdoor Furniture

Teak can be ultra-low maintenance if you want that classic, aged look that is associated with a French Farmhouse. If you need to clean your teak, you can use warm water with a small splash of vinegar.

As teak ages, it will naturally weather to a silver-grey tone. You can pick up the golden notes again by applying teak oil every 6 months. For more information, check out our specific teak maintenance guide!

Merbau and Other Timbers

What about other wooden outdoor furniture? You can clean most kinds of wood using water, vinegar, and a little dishwashing liquid. Dirt can be removed using a hard brush and applying small amounts of pressure, be sure not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging your furniture.

To maintain your wood, apply timber oil occasionally. The frequency will depend on your ageing preferences, so think about the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Unsure about the kind of wood you should get for your outdoor furniture? We’ve put together a helpful guide here. If you’ve already got your wood and you’re looking for more maintenance tips, check out our blog here.

Concrete Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Concrete outdoor furniture is a sleek, stunning, and sophisticated choice, offering both style and durability. This makes it an excellent option for outdoor settings. Featherstone GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) is particularly notable for its weather-resistant properties, ensuring your furniture remains robust in various conditions.

Concrete furniture is great for those seeking a sophisticated Italian look. The neutral tones and smooth textures of concrete create a striking contrast against the vibrant greenery and earthy tones typical of Italian gardens. This interplay of colours and textures highlights the elegance and resilience of concrete furniture, making it a perfect blend of modern style and timeless charm.

To maintain your concrete furniture, it's important to regularly clean it with a mild detergent and warm water. Use a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge to remove any dirt or debris, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this could damage the finish. Additionally, sealing your concrete furniture annually can help protect it from stains and weather damage.

Our concrete tables already come with an innovative factory sealant, which provides excellent protection against the elements. To further enhance the water resistance and longevity of your tables, we recommend our second layer of sealant service. For more information about the features and benefits of concrete tables, including details on our sealant services, check out the videos on this page: What Are the Features and Benefits of Concrete Tables?

It’s important to keep your concrete looking good by avoiding placing hot, wet, or acidic/abrasive substances on your table (this includes avoiding harsh chemicals & pressure washers). It’s also crucial to be aware that hairline cracks can occur naturally in concrete, but these have nothing to do with structural integrity. You may want to seal them to prevent water from getting into the table. More details on how to care for your concrete outdoor furniture are available here.

To learn more about the different properties of concrete furniture, including detailed explanations and visual demonstrations, check out our video series here!

Resin Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Resin furniture is ideal in many ways because it stands up superbly to all elements, so it’s perfect for the Australian climate. It looks pristine for many years, offering a chic touch that can be described as either Italian or French. The vibrant colours available in resin furniture add a lively pop to any setting. In an Italian or French garden, these bright hues stand out beautifully against traditional white or neutral tiles and the vivid blooms of Mediterranean flowers. This combination creates a visually stunning effect, enhancing the overall aesthetic with a harmonious blend of colour and style.

There are two main types of resin, thermoplastic and thermoset. Both types have advantages: thermoplastic resin is versatile and recyclable, while thermoset resin is known for its durability and temperature resistance.

You can clean resin furniture with mild, soapy water, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. A soft toothbrush will get rid of any remaining dirt in small nooks of the furniture, you can then rinse and dry it with a cloth or in the sun.

It’s wise to use a protective cover and avoid using any aggressive chemicals. As fading can be an issue, dark-coloured furniture should be placed in the shade. You can learn more resin outdoor furniture maintenance tips here!

Rope Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Consumers tends to choose Remarkable rope outdoor furniture because it is durable, weather-resistant, and holds its colour well. It offers a coastal theme, which could fit nicely in a Scandinavian chic patio or a home with a Spanish Finca vibe. Rope can be wiped with a damp cloth and mild, natural soap. Use a soft bristle brush to clean, and allow to air dry. Don’t use sharp objects on the rope as this could damage the materials. You can check out more on rope maintenance here.

Stainless Steel Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Although not immune to rust, stainless steel is rust-resistant, and again offers a great, simple and clean look that is often used in Scandinavian furniture.

To keep your stainless steel furniture looking its best, regular cleaning is essential. Use a stainless steel cleaner and warm soapy water to clean the surface, scrubbing gently in the direction of the grain to remove any oxidization and quickly restore the metal’s natural glossy finish. Minor scratches can often be addressed by rubbing with a scouring pad in the direction of the grain. If you live in a seaside climate or have a saltwater pool, more frequent cleaning is important to remove concentrated salt deposits that can lead to finish failure.

Cover your furniture when it’s not in use, and check out more stainless steel furniture maintenance info here!

Textilene Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Strong and beautiful, textilene is made from polyester yarns that have been heat set. It holds up well to wear and tear, and also has good fade resistance. It can be used to add a pop of colour to almost any style but works well for the warm tones of Spanish Finca.

You can use a garden hose to rinse the fabric down and remove debris, plus mild soapy water and a sponge for stubborn stains. Always rinse and allow to fully dry. Don’t leave staining products on textilene, and protect it from frozen temperatures during the winter season. To learn more about how you can maintain your textiline outdoor furniture, visit this page.

Ceramic Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Ceramic surfaces are durable and withstand high temperatures well, making them ideal for hot climates, and if you’re going for Scandinavia chic, this could be the perfect option for you. You can clean ceramic furniture with a microfiber cloth, and wash it with warm water and detergent if necessary. Don’t expose it to high pressure or hydrofluoric acid.

Spills should be cleaned promptly, and protective covers should be used when not in use to maintain that lovely sheen. You can find more ceramic outdoor furniture maintenance tips here!

Sofa and Daybed Cushions Care Guide

Outdoor soft fabrics need good care to extend their longevity, so regular maintenance is a must. Soft furnishings can be used to evoke a lovely, homely and welcoming atmosphere. A European style that works great with this is the traditional English cottage aesthetic, where plush cushions and cozy textures enhance the inviting and charming ambiance typical of such settings.

To clean this kind of furniture, brush off loose dirt and debris, and sponge with mild soap and lukewarm water where necessary. Rinse and air dry. If cushion covers are removable, wash as necessary.

Storing outdoor cushions inside when not in use will prolong their life, even though they are intended for outdoor use. You can also use furniture covers to preserve them. To learn more about how to maintain your outdoor furniture cushions, check out our detailed guide.

General Tips for Protecting Your Furniture

To ensure your outdoor furniture remains in top condition and lasts for years to come, follow these general maintenance tips:

• Regularly dust your outdoor furniture to prevent the buildup of dirt and airborne pollutants.
• Address spills immediately, especially those from lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, wine, or coffee, as they can cause stubborn stains.
• Clean your outdoor furniture with soapy water and a clean, soft cloth to remove any remaining residue.
• Avoid using bleach, abrasive cleaners, solvent-based products, or high-pressure methods on the furniture surface.
• Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, or scouring pads, as they can damage the surface paint.
• Refrain from striking the furniture with blunt or heavy objects to prevent damage and breakage.
• Keep the furniture away from heat sources like braziers, heaters, fire pits, and BBQ grills to avoid damage.
• We recommend using Golden Care ® Protectors, Shields, and Cleaners for effective furniture maintenance.
• Use a furniture cover when your furniture is not in use to keep it protected.
• All products require a minimal amount of regular care and maintenance to ensure longevity.

These general tips will guide you along most of your journey and should answer how to clean outdoor furniture, no matter what you have. Cleaning and maintaining is the best way to ensure your furniture lasts well and looks great for as long as possible! Before we finish, let’s check out a few more FAQs below.

FAQs

What is the best oil for outdoor wood furniture?

Teak oil is ideal for many woods, providing a rich, warm finish, and replacing the oils that wood loses due to UV rays, weather, and ageing.

What is the best way to preserve outdoor furniture?

A cover is one of the most effective ways to preserve outdoor furniture.

How do you keep outdoor furniture in good condition?

Regularly cleaning and (where applicable) applying a suitable sealant can help maintain your furniture’s condition.

Should you oil outdoor furniture?

Yes, especially if it is wood. Oil protects your furniture from UV damage, moisture, and wear and tear. It also nourishes the wood, maintains its colour, and helps it last. Regular oiling is key for woods like teak, especially when used outside.

Should I cover outdoor furniture every time it rains?

Yes; this protects furniture from water damage and prolongs its lifespan, and can prevent rust, mould, and mildew. It also reduces the amount of cleaning and maintenance you need to do!

Featured Products

• Neverland Extension Table Auto Wicker Chair Outdoor Dining Setting
• Armenia Outdoor Wicker Dining Chair in Charcoal
• Albury Outdoor Aluminium Armchair in Charcoal
• Valley Outdoor Recycled Teak Dining Table 250 cm in Natural
• Zen Outdoor Concrete Dining Table With Teak Cross Leg in Grey Wash 210 cm
• Nardi Doga Outdoor Resin Balcony Relax Chair in Green (Agave)
• Windsor Outdoor Rope Dining Chair in Charcoal
• Neverland Outdoor Ceramic Extension Dining Table 240/350 cm in Charcoal
• Teak Outdoor Teak Daybed in Natural

Reference Sources

• Illinois Fibre Specialty Company: Textilene Outdoor Fabric
• Resin Library: What is Resin?
• Reliance Foundry: Does Stainless Steel Rust