How to Clean Garden Furniture: 5 Steps To Easy and Thorough Clean!

Your garden furniture endures a lot throughout the year. From scorching sun and heavy rain to bird droppings and general wear and tear, it’s no wonder it needs a good clean every now and then.

This guide provides all the information you need to know about how to clean garden furniture, regardless of the material.

We’ll cover everything from basic cleaning to tackling stubborn stains, ensuring your outdoor space remains a haven of relaxation and beauty.

Why Clean Your Garden Furniture?

Cleaning your garden furniture isn’t just about aesthetics. Regular cleaning can:

• Prolong its lifespan: Dirt, grime, and bird droppings can damage the furniture’s surface over time, leading to premature wear and tear.
• Prevent mold and mildew: Moisture trapped in dirt and debris can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can be unsightly and potentially harmful to your health.
• Enhance your outdoor experience: Clean and well-maintained furniture makes your garden a more inviting and enjoyable space.

General Cleaning Tips

Before we dive into specific materials, here are some general tips on how to clean garden furniture:

• Regularity is key: Aim to clean your furniture at least twice a year – once at the start of the season and once at the end. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if your furniture is exposed to harsh weather or heavy use.
• Choose the right day: A cloudy but dry day is ideal for cleaning garden furniture. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause cleaning solutions to dry too quickly and leave streaks.
• Gather your supplies: Having everything you need on hand makes the cleaning process smoother. Essential supplies include a bucket, warm water, mild detergent, soft cloths or sponges, a scrubbing brush (for stubborn dirt), and a hose or pressure washer (optional).
• Always test first: Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire piece of furniture, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

How to Clean Garden Furniture Wood

Wooden garden furniture adds a touch of natural elegance to any outdoor space. However, wood is susceptible to weathering and requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Here’s how to clean garden furniture made of wood:

1. Remove loose dirt and debris: Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt, leaves, or cobwebs.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix warm water with a mild detergent specifically designed for wood. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the wood’s finish.
3. Wash the furniture: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the furniture, working in the direction of the grain.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Use a hose or bucket of clean water to rinse off all traces of soap.
5. Dry completely: Allow the furniture to air dry completely before using or covering it.

Tip: To further protect your wooden furniture, consider applying a wood oil or sealant after cleaning. This helps to repel water and prevent damage from the elements.

How to Clean Garden Furniture Plastic

Plastic garden furniture is popular for its affordability and durability. It’s generally easy to clean, but it can become discolored or stained over time. Here’s how to clean garden furniture made of plastic:

1. Remove loose dirt: Hose down the furniture to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix warm water with a mild detergent or a specialized plastic cleaner. You can also use a solution of white vinegar and water for a more natural approach.
3. Wash the furniture: Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the cleaning solution, scrubbing any stubborn stains.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the furniture with clean water to remove all soap residue.
5. Dry completely: Allow the furniture to air dry or wipe it down with a clean cloth.

Tip: To prevent fading and discoloration, store your plastic furniture indoors or cover it when not in use.

How to Clean Garden Furniture Fabric

Many types of garden furniture utilize fabric, from sling chairs to padded loungers. Cleaning fabric furniture requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the material. Here’s how to clean garden furniture fabric:

1. Vacuum or brush: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix warm water with a mild detergent specifically designed for fabric. You can also use a solution of white vinegar and water for a natural cleaner.
3. Spot clean stains: For spot cleaning, use a damp cloth and the cleaning solution. Gently blot the stain, working from the outside in.
4. Wash the fabric: If the fabric is removable, follow the care label instructions for washing. If not, use a sponge or soft cloth to apply the cleaning solution to the fabric, working in small sections.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the fabric thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
6. Dry completely: Allow the fabric to air dry completely before using the furniture.

Tip: To protect your fabric furniture from the elements, consider applying a fabric protector spray after cleaning.

How to Clean Garden Furniture Cushions and Covers

Cushions and covers add comfort and style to your garden furniture. However, they can easily become soiled with spills, stains, and general wear. Here’s how to clean garden furniture cushions and covers:

How to Clean Garden Furniture Cushions

1. Check the care label: Always check the care label for specific cleaning instructions. Some cushions may be machine washable, while others require hand washing.
2. Remove loose dirt: Shake or vacuum the cushions to remove any loose dirt or crumbs.
3. Spot clean stains: For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent and a damp cloth. Gently blot the stain, working from the outside in to avoid spreading it.
4. Wash the cushions: If machine washable, follow the care label instructions. For hand washing, use a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Gently scrub the cushions with a soft brush or sponge.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the cushions thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
6. Dry completely: Allow the cushions to air dry completely before putting them back on the furniture. If machine washable, you may be able to tumble dry them on a low setting.

How to Clean Garden Furniture Covers

1. Remove the covers: Take the covers off the cushions and shake them out to remove any loose dirt.
2. Check the care label: Always check the care label for specific washing instructions. Some covers may be machine washable, while others require hand washing or dry cleaning.
3. Pre-treat stains: For stubborn stains, pre-treat the area with a stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water.
4. Wash the covers: If machine washable, follow the care label instructions. For hand washing, use a mild detergent and lukewarm water.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the covers thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
6. Dry completely: Allow the covers to air dry completely before putting them back on the cushions.

How to Clean Garden Furniture with Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner for many types of garden furniture. It’s particularly useful for removing mildew and grime. Here’s how to clean garden furniture with vinegar:

1. Prepare a vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket or spray bottle.
2. Apply the solution: Spray or wipe the vinegar solution onto the furniture, focusing on areas with mildew or grime.
3. Let it sit: Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes to loosen the dirt.
4. Scrub if necessary: Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub any stubborn stains.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the furniture with clean water to remove all vinegar residue.
6. Dry completely: Allow the furniture to air dry completely.

Conclusion

Cleaning your garden furniture is an essential part of maintaining your outdoor space and ensuring its longevity.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can keep your furniture looking its best and enjoy a clean and inviting outdoor oasis for years to come.

Remember to choose the right cleaning methods for your furniture’s material and address any specific cleaning challenges promptly. With a little effort and care, your garden furniture will remain a source of pride and enjoyment.

FAQs

Some of the frequently inquired questions regarding ways to clean garden furniture are as follow:

How do I remove bird droppings from garden furniture?

Quickly scrape off solid droppings with a plastic scraper. Then, wash the area with warm soapy water, gently scrubbing until clean. Rinse and dry.

Can I use a pressure washer to clean garden furniture?

Yes, but with caution! Start on the lowest setting and avoid high pressure on wood or wicker.

How do I clean rust from garden furniture?

Use a commercial rust remover or try a baking soda paste/lemon juice and salt mixture. Scrub, rinse, and dry. To prevent future rust, apply a rust-proof paint.

How often should I clean my garden furniture cushions?

At least twice a year (start and end of season), more often if heavily used or stained.

How do I store my garden furniture cushions?

Clean and dry them thoroughly. Store in a breathable bag in a dry, well-ventilated area like a shed or garage.