To make our outdoor spaces look beautiful, we need good garden furniture. It can be a full dining set or a smaller bistro set. These sets, like Supremo Livorno and the Amalfi from Hartman’s Garden Furniture range, are timeless and elegant.
Maintaining your garden furniture is crucial to ensure its longevity and charm. Cleaning regularly with soap and water removes dirt. Be careful with different materials like metal, wood, or wicker to avoid causing harm.
Be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions for cushions and consider protective measures during colder months. This routine upkeep will preserve the beauty of your outdoor furniture, making it a lasting and elegant centerpiece for your outdoor spaces.
Whilst modern garden furniture is durable and designed to be maintenance free there are always benefits to be had from regular cleaning.
In this blog post, we will explore how to clean garden furniture to ensure its longevity and charm and outline the benefits it brings.
Top 5 tips for cleaning garden furniture
- Choose a dry day: Whether you’re wondering how to clean wooden garden furniture or how to clean metal garden furniture, rattan garden furniture or plastic, a good dry day is essential!
- Gather the necessary supplies: You will need a bucket of warm water, mild cleaning liquid, a soft brush or sponge, a garden hose with a spray nozzle and a soft cloth.
- Remove loose debris: Use a soft-bristle brush or a broom to remove loose dirt, leaves, and other debris from the furniture’s surface and crevices. This step helps prevent scratches during the cleaning process.
- Clean the furniture: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the furniture’s surface, paying attention to any stubborn stains or dirt. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristle brush or a toothbrush.
- Rinse and dry: Once you’ve cleaned the furniture, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Wipe it dry with a clean towel or allow it to air dry naturally trying to avoid direct sunlight.
How to clean wooden garden furniture
After washing and allowing the wood to dry, maintaining its lustrous appearance is key. To achieve this, consider treating the wood with a protective oil such as Ronseal. Begin by gently sanding the surface to ensure a smooth finish and optimal absorption of the oil. Once the surface is prepared, apply the protective oil using a brush.
How to clean plastic garden furniture
When dealing with stubborn stains on plastic garden furniture, it’s best to avoid using bleach, as it can potentially damage and corrode the plastic material. Instead, opt for a safer alternative. Dampen a sponge and sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on it.
How to clean metal garden furniture
If you notice signs of rust on your metal garden furniture, addressing the issue promptly is important to prevent further deterioration. Begin by gently scrubbing the rusted areas with a steel wire brush. This will help remove any loose rust flakes and prepare the surface for treatment. Once the surface is clean and dry, consider applying an anti-rust metal paint to the affected areas.
Benefits of Clean Garden Furniture:
- Preserve the Natural Beauty: Regular cleaning of your garden furniture will help to retain its natural beauty. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate so with regular cleaning you can restore its original lustre and showcase it to its full potential.
- Increases Longevity: Proper maintenance and cleaning will also significantly contribute to the longevity of your garden furniture. Regular cleaning removes debris that can damage by preventing the build-up of dirt, mould, and mildew, you can prevent deterioration and ultimately extend the furniture’s lifespan.
- Ensures Comfort and Hygiene: Clean furniture is much more comfortable to use. Dust, pollen, and other particles can accumulate on the surface but by keeping it clean, you provide a hygienic and inviting space for yourself, your family, and your guests.
- Enhances Durability: Garden furniture is exposed to various weather conditions, including rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. Without proper cleaning, these elements can take their toll. Regular cleaning, combined with protective furniture covers fortifies the wood against such damage, enhancing its durability.
Whether your garden furniture is made of Aluminium or Rattan a little time invested in cleaning and maintenance will yield a host of benefits. By keeping it clean, you preserve its natural beauty, increase its longevity, ensure comfort and hygiene, and enhance its durability. With simple steps and regular care, you can enjoy your garden furniture for years to come, creating a welcoming outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.