Outdoor furniture is more than just seating, it’s an extension of your living space.
It offers a place to relax, entertain, work from home, and enjoy the fresh air. However, if you live in an area with strong UV rays or harsh rain/wind/snow, the elements can take a major toll on your outdoor furniture’s appearance and durability. Thankfully, there are various ways you can protect and prevent your furniture and keep it in great condition.
In this post, we provide tips on how to properly maintain and clean outdoor furniture to ensure it lasts. By following these tips, your outdoor space will look clean, inviting, and well-kept for years to come.
Can I Use Dawn Soap to Clean Outdoor Furniture?
Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe to clean outdoor furniture and is less abrasive than commercial cleaners. Dawn Powerwash is particularly effective at cleaning furniture as it cuts down residue and grime.
To use Dawn when cleaning outdoor furniture, use a mixture of:
- 1/4 cup of Dawn dish soap
- 1 gallon of warm water
- Scrub with a rag or soft brush, paying attention to areas with mildew buildup
How to Maintain and Clean Outdoor Furniture:
Use Protective Covers
While not the most visually appealing, protective covers are one of the best ways to keep your outdoor furniture clean and damage-free. This is especially applicable if you live in an area that gets harsh sunlight throughout the day as strong sunlight emits harsh UV rays that cause fading and cracking. Covers also protect your furniture from dirt and debris.
While some protective covers tend to be a bit of an eye-sore and look more like tarps than covers, some come in pretty colors that will blend with your outdoor decor. We recommend keeping a basket outside where you can easily store the cover when it’s not in use.
Invest in a Storage Unit
If you live in an area that tends to get a lot of snow in the winter or you live in a warmer climate with high levels of soot/dust in the air, it might be best to put all outdoor furniture in a storage unit every winter. While this is an added expense and a bit of a hassle, it will help you save quite a bit on replacing and repairing damaged furniture that has been exposed to the elements.
Store Cushions, Rugs & Pots in an Outdoor Cabinet
If you don’t want to put all of your outdoor furniture in storage, consider investing in an outdoor cabinet or bench where you can store cushions, rugs, pots/pans, and other items that could get damaged or blow away during the harsher seasons.
Regularly Clean Outdoor Furniture
Add cleaning your outdoor furniture to your to-do list each week. Wiping your outdoor furniture down with a damp cloth and shaking out the cushions is really all that’s needed.
You can also dilute dish soap in water to fully remove dust and grime. To avoid damaging the furniture, stay away from abrasive tools and harsh chemicals (such as bleach).
Additional Care Considerations
- Rotate Furniture: Regularly rotate cushions and furniture to prevent uneven fading and wear.
- Place Furniture on Level Ground: Place your furniture on a level surface to prevent uneven wear.
- Use Cushions: Use padding and cushions to protect furniture from direct sunlight and rain.
- Avoid Overloading: Avoid putting too many items on furniture to prevent structural damage.
- Consider Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning or stubborn stains, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Transform your outdoor space into a stylish retreat and protect your furniture from the elements with simple care tips for long-lasting beauty.
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Made from Wood:
How to Clean: Use a broom or brush to regularly remove dirt and debris. For deeper cleaning, use mild dish soap and water with a rag to wipe down furniture. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage and stain the wood.
How to Protect: At the start of each year, apply a waterproofing wood sealant or stain to protect against moisture damage, UV rays, and insects. Wood conditioner is also a great way to prevent drying and cracking.
How to Put in Storage: Store furniture in a cool, dry area. If you’re storing it for an extended period, make sure the furniture is completely dry before covering it with a breathable cover.
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Made from Metal:
How to Clean: Use mild dish soap and water to remove dirt and grime. After cleaning, use a dry cloth on the area immediately to prevent water spots.
How to Protect: Apply a rust-preventative coating regularly, especially in humid seasons.
How to Put in Storage: Cover metal furniture when you’re not using it, especially during harsher weather.
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Made from Plastic and Resin:
How to Clean: Plastic furniture is typically the easiest to clean and only needs mild dish soap and water.
How to Protect: A UV protectant will help protect against fading and sun damage.
How to Put in Storage: While not necessary, covering can protect against harsher weather.
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Made from Wicker and Rattan:
How to Clean: Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution. If you live in a wet climate, keep the furniture covered as much as possible.
How to Protect: Apply a water-repellent sealant to protect against moisture and stains.
How to Put in Storage: Store in a covered area to shield it from the rain.
How to Clean Outdoor Fabric:
How to Clean: Most outdoor fabrics can be cleaned with mild detergent and water.
How to Protect: Apply a fabric protector such as Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield to repel stains and water. Although it acts as a water-repellent, it will leave a protective coating between your fabric and dirt, meaning you can wipe away soot without embedding it into the fabric.
How to Put in Storage: Store cushions indoors or in a dry, covered area when you’re not using them.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for an apartment, Draper and Kramer’s luxury rental properties offer tenants private terraces and balconies, many of which are covered and protect outdoor furniture from the elements. Contact us to learn more about our luxury properties today.
