How to Clean & Maintain Outdoor Furniture
To transform your outdoor space into an area for cozy get-togethers and maximum lounging, you simply have to clean and properly maintain your outdoor furniture. From dust and dirt to mold and more, everything left outside should be regularly cared for to remain in the best condition possible. Use this guide to learn how to clean outdoor furniture, so it stays cool and comfortable season after season.
When to Clean Outdoor Furniture
It’s best practice to clean your outdoor furniture at least twice a year: in spring and fall. As temperatures rise, spruce up outdoor pieces to ready them for spring and summer use. When temperatures begin to drop, consider washing outside furniture and stowing it away to protect it from the harsh winter weather.
What Is the Best Solution for Cleaning Outdoor Furniture?
You can buy an outdoor furniture cleaner or make your own cleaning solution with just a few ingredients.
DIY Outdoor Furniture Cleaner Recipe
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of detergent-based dish soap
How to Clean Outdoor Wood Furniture
For maximum durability, stain wood furniture, like you would for deck maintenance, every two or three years. Staining will protect the wood from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, dirt, and moisture, while maintaining its color. Cleaning from there is simple: soap and water get the job done. For regular care:
- Use a mini-vacuum to clear dirt and debris
- Scrub with a soft-bristle brush dipped in soap and water
- Rinse and pat dry with a non-abrasive cloth
Related: How to Stain a Deck in 6 Steps
Getting Stains Out of Wood Furniture
Mildew and rust can stain and damage outdoor wood furniture. To get rust stains out of wood furniture, sand the area. If that doesn’t work, mix wood bleach with hot water and scrub with a soft brush. For mildew, mix the hot water with powdered oxygen bleach instead.
How to Clean Outdoor Metal Furniture
Metal outdoor furniture is even more susceptible to rust damage. To remove buildup, soak the affected area in white vinegar for at least 30 minutes, then scrub it away and pat dry. Regular cleaning can follow the same process as wood furniture: vacuum debris and clean with soap and water.
Protecting Outdoor Metal Furniture
Metal furniture typically includes a clean varnish, paint, or powder-coated finish for protection. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for how to protect the coating. You might have to apply liquid or paste wax or use silicone spray to lubricate chairs or umbrellas.
How to Clean Outdoor Wicker Furniture
Natural wicker furniture is made by weaving together plants like bamboo, seagrass, rattan, willow, and banana bark. Many outdoor options are made from synthetic wicker composed of resin that is weather-resistant and more durable. No matter the material, wicker needs to be cleaned and protected from sunlight. Cover your wicker furniture whenever it isn’t in use, or even bring it indoors if you can, to prolong its quality.
For cleaning, mix mild soap with just enough water to spray on. Wicker fibers will weaken if they get soaked, so don’t add too much water and apply your cleaning solution only as needed.
Related: Power Washer Dos and Don’ts
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Fabric
Fabric for outdoor furniture is designed to withstand stains, moisture, mildew, and more. Less prone to fading and damage from abrasive materials, machine-wash removable pieces in cold water with bleach-free soap, or hand-wash them in a mixture of about ¼ cup liquid soap and a gallon of lukewarm water. If the covers aren’t removable, follow these instructions:
- Remove dirt, debris, etc. with a mini vacuum
- Spot clean covers with dish soap and warm water
- Scrub with a soft brush or sponge in a circular motion for stains that won’t go away
- Rinse with water and air dry
- Fluff to return the material to its original shape
How to Clean Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic is the easiest outdoor furniture material to clean because stains don’t set in as they do with other materials. To remove major stains, mix water with chlorine bleach at a 10:1 ratio, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. For minor residue, wipe plastic furniture with a wet cloth mixed with mild soap.
Building Out Your Backyard
Understanding how to clean outdoor furniture is the first step in enhancing your backyard. For more cost-friendly ideas, check out our list of “5 Ways to Spruce Up Your Backyard on a Budget.” You’ll learn how to add colors, textures, and more—for cheap!
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture FAQs
What’s the best solution for cleaning outdoor furniture?
Combining mild dish soap and warm water creates an effective DIY outdoor furniture cleaner. Add white vinegar or bleach for a cleaning boost.
Is Dawn good for cleaning outdoor furniture?
Dawn is a great option for cleaning outdoor furniture. It is a mild dish soap that won’t do damage to plastic, metal, or wicker.
Does vinegar damage wood furniture?
Vinegar can damage wood furniture if it’s used improperly. When using vinegar to clean outdoor furniture, dilute it heavily with warm water. Spot-test your solution on a small area before applying it to the rest of your furniture.
What outdoor patio furniture lasts the longest?
Outdoor furniture made of teak wood tends to last the longest among standard options. On average, this kind of furniture has a lifespan of 20 to 40 years.