Cleaning Garden Furniture And Accessories: How to Keep Them Pristine

Creating a lovely outdoor space can be a great project to focus on this year. Carefully chosen garden furniture and accessories play a vital role in turning your garden into an outdoor haven, a tranquil retreat to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

But with the unpredictable UK weather, maintaining these items and keeping them looking their best all year round can be a challenge.

This guide will walk you through some key tips on how to preserve your outdoor pieces, ensuring they stand the test of time and weather. You will learn more about how to clean them properly, store them, and repair them so that they can last as long as possible.

Cleaning Garden Furniture and Accessories

a corner sofa in a garden with festoon lights and lanterns — As the weather worsens in the colder months, it is important to look after your garden furniture

Regular garden furniture maintenance helps to preserve the structural integrity and appearance, ensuring it lasts longer. Garden furniture is exposed to various natural elements like rain, sun, and snow, so proper maintenance prevents damage from these factors.

Maintained garden furniture also helps retain its color and shine, enhancing the beauty of your outdoor space. It also means fewer replacements over the years which results in long-term cost savings!

Cleaning Them Regularly

The first and foremost step in maintaining your garden furniture and accessories is regular cleaning. It may seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook when life gets busy. However, regular cleaning prevents the build-up of dirt and mold that can cause permanent staining or damage.

For different cleaning techniques based on material;

Wooden Furniture

A soft brush and soapy water should suffice. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water and dampen a cloth with soapy water. Gently wipe down the furniture, following the wood grain, and rinse with clean water. Finally, dry thoroughly with a soft towel.

If the furniture has mildew or stains, white vinegar, water, and a soft brush or cloth should help get rid of it. Scrub the affected area gently with a soft brush or cloth and rinse and dry. A pressure washer is also a good way to get rid of stubborn stains on garden wood furniture.

If your wooden furniture has splinters or rough patches, you may need to sand it down. Once the furniture is clean and dry, apply a wood-specific sealant or oil. This adds a layer of protection and enriches the wood’s natural color.

Metal Furniture

Metal garden furniture, while robust and durable, can be prone to rust and tarnish when exposed to outdoor elements. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water, then dampen a cloth or sponge in the soapy water.

Wipe down the furniture thoroughly, rinse with clean water, and dry completely with a soft towel to prevent water spots. Much like wooden furniture, if there is stubborn grime, use white vinegar, water, and a cloth to remove the tougher stains.

If your metal garden furniture has developed rust, use fine steel wool or sandpaper, rust remover or white vinegar, and protective gloves to gently scrub the rusted areas.

Plastic or Resin Furniture

Plastic garden furniture is popular due to its affordability, lightweight nature, and durability. However, it can become stained, faded, or grimy over time, especially when exposed to outdoor elements.

It simply needs a wipe-down with soapy water. However, if there are stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and gently rub the stained areas in a circular motion.

If your plastic furniture has become discolored or yellowing, hydrogen peroxide can help. Pour hydrogen peroxide into a bowl and dip a soft cloth in the solution. Wipe down the yellowed or discolored areas and leave the furniture in the sun for an hour. Finally, rinse and dry completely.

Wicker or Rattan Furniture

Wicker and rattan furniture exudes a timeless charm and offers a distinct natural aesthetic to garden spaces.

However, their intricate weave can trap dust and dirt, and their natural materials can be susceptible to damage from the elements. Proper cleaning is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity.

Regularly dust the furniture using a soft brush to remove surface dirt. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean between the weaves and crevices.

To clean, use soapy warm water and a soft cloth to wipe down the furniture gently. Use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas. If there are stubborn stains, mix salt in water until it’s dissolved. Salt acts as a mild abrasive, helping to lift grime without damaging the material.

Rattan can become brittle if it dries out. Occasionally, it’s good to lightly spray it with water to reintroduce some moisture, especially in dry climates. However, ensure it doesn’t stay wet for prolonged periods to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Don’t forget to clean your fabric items such as cushions and parasols. Most can be hand washed or in the washing machine. Always check the care labels for instructions.

Finding Effective Storage Solutions

Even with regular cleaning, the harsh winter months can take a toll on your garden furniture and accessories. This is why, you may want to find effective storage solutions to ensure that your items will be safe, no matter the weather outside.

You can explore Safestore’s storage options, as they can offer a perfect solution for storing your precious garden pieces safely and securely during off-seasons. Their flexible storage options can accommodate all types of garden furniture and accessories, regardless of size.

You can have peace of mind that your outdoor treasures are safe from the damaging effects of severe weather, ready to grace your garden when the sun shines again.

Applying Protective Treatments

Extending the life of your garden furniture significantly depends on the protective treatments you apply. However, different types of garden furniture require different treatments to maintain their appearance and durability.

Wooden furniture can benefit from oils and stains that replenish the wood’s natural oils and provide a protective barrier against weather damage.
Metal furniture, on the other hand, may require a rust-resistant coating.
Use covers to protect your furniture. Ensure you measure the width, depth, and height of your furniture to get the right size. For tables, consider the length and diameter. A good cover should fit snugly but not too tightly, allowing for some air circulation.

Always remember to clean your furniture before applying any treatment.

Carrying Out Timely Repairs

Garden furniture and accessories are prone to wear and tear due to their exposure to the elements. Small cracks, peeling paint, or loose screws may seem minor at first, but if left unattended, they can lead to more significant damage.

Take the time to inspect your furniture regularly and fix any minor issues as soon as you spot them. This will help you ensure that your garden furniture lasts longer.

Be sure to repaint peeling surfaces, tighten loose screws, and seal any cracks. If your furniture is beyond repair, it might be time to consider a replacement. Not only can damaged furniture detract from your garden’s overall look, but it can also be a safety hazard.

Rotate Your Accessories

garden furniture with colourful cushions

Rotating your garden accessories is another effective strategy for preserving their life. You don’t have to display all your garden cushions, ornaments, and decorative pieces at once.

In addition, rotating accessories prevent the overuse of any particular item. For instance, if you have a favorite set of cushions that are used every time you’re out in the garden, they are likely to wear out faster than the rest.

Instead, you should store some away and rotate them throughout the seasons. This reduces their exposure to the elements and also gives your garden a fresh look every few months.

Regular maintenance is about preservation, prevention, and protection. It’s an ongoing commitment to the care of your garden furniture and accessories, ensuring they offer the best value, appearance, and functionality throughout their life.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will receive a very small commission if you click through and make a purchase. These links help to pay the editorial costs of writing a blog. For more information, please read my full affiliate disclosure here.

I also use Artificial Intelligence Image generators to create some of my images. These are to show you examples of my ideas and inspiration when I cannot produce the real images myself.

Cleaning Garden Furniture And Accessories: How to Keep Them Pristine