How to Clean Garden Furniture

Garden furniture transforms outdoor spaces into cosy retreats for relaxation and gatherings. But over time, exposure to the elements can leave them looking less than stellar. Ready to make yours sparkle? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping your garden furniture fresh and fabulous!

Tools You’ll Need

Before rolling up your sleeves, gather these handy tools:

• Soft-bristled brushes: Gentle yet effective on stubborn dirt.
• Microfibre cloths: Perfect for wiping and polishing surfaces.
• Buckets: One for soapy water and another for rinsing.
• Garden hose or pressure washer: For thorough rinsing.
• Cleaning agents: Mild soap, white vinegar, or specific wood/plastic cleaners.
• Protective gloves: Keep your hands clean and chemical-free.

General guidelines on how to clean garden furniture

Every type of garden furniture requires its own special care, but there are some universal techniques that can make cleaning simpler and more effective. Whether your furniture is made of wood, metal, plastic, or wicker, these general tips are a solid foundation for ensuring your outdoor pieces stay in excellent condition.

How to clean garden furniture with just soap and water

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to clean garden furniture is by using a solution of mild soap and water. It’s gentle enough to protect surfaces but tough on dirt and grime.

• Dilute the Soap: Start by mixing a small amount of mild soap or dishwashing liquid with warm water. Harsh cleaning agents or abrasive powders should be avoided as they can strip protective coatings or cause discolouration.
  • Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether the soap is suitable, test it on a small, inconspicuous spot first.
• Use a Soft Brush: Scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush helps dislodge dirt, bird droppings, and pollen without scratching delicate surfaces. Be sure to follow the grain for wooden furniture or move gently along the seams for wicker pieces. Don’t forget corners and crevices!
• Rinse with Water: After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the furniture with a garden hose or bucket of clean water. Leaving soap residue can dull surfaces or attract more dirt over time.

Dry thoroughly

Drying your garden furniture properly is just as important as cleaning it. Any lingering moisture can lead to mould, watermarks or mildew, which can shorten the lifespan of your furniture.

• Air Dry: After rinsing, allow your furniture to air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight might seem like a faster option, but it can lead to fading or cracking, particularly for plastic or wooden pieces.
  • For metal furniture, air drying is critical to prevent rust. Wipe down the furniture to remove excess water first.
• Towel Dry: For a quicker result, use a clean, soft towel to dry your furniture after rinsing. This is especially helpful for wooden furniture, which can absorb water if left wet for too long.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, discolouration, or even warping in certain materials.
  • For wooden furniture, this might lead to cracks or splits as the material dries out too quickly.
  • For plastic pieces, sunlight can make them brittle over time, leading to cracks or structural weakness.

How to clean wooden garden furniture

Wooden garden furniture exudes a timeless charm and brings natural elegance to your outdoor spaces. However, wood is a living material, susceptible to weathering and damage if not cared for properly. With a little extra effort, you can keep your wooden furniture looking beautiful and ensure it lasts for years.

How to clean garden furniture using a pressure washer

A pressure washer can be a helpful tool for cleaning wooden furniture, but only if used correctly. While it effectively removes dirt and grime, improper use can cause significant damage.

• Always use a low-pressure setting to protect the wood. High-pressure streams can gouge or splinter the surface, ruining its finish.

Pro tip: Some pressure washers come with a nozzle designed for delicate surfaces. Use this attachment if available.

• Avoid Damage: Keep the nozzle at least 2 feet (60 cm) away from the surface to reduce the intensity of the water jet. Work in sweeping motions rather than focusing on one spot.
  • Test First: Before cleaning the entire piece, test the pressure washer on a small, hidden area to ensure it doesn’t harm the wood.
• Dry Wood Properly: After washing, drying thoroughly is essential. Wood retains moisture, which can lead to mould or rot if left untreated.
  • Use a clean towel to remove excess water, and place the furniture in a shaded, airy location to air dry.
  • Avoid stacking or leaning furniture while it dries, as this can trap moisture in hidden areas.

How to remove stains from wooden garden furniture

• White Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to create a natural, non-toxic cleaning solution. Apply it to the stained area using a soft cloth or sponge. Gently scrub in the direction of the wood grain, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Soapy Water: For everyday dirt or minor discolouration, use a simple mix of warm water and mild soap. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wring out excess liquid, and wipe the affected area. Avoid soaking the wood to prevent water absorption.
• Stubborn Stains Solution: For tough, deep stains, light sanding may be necessary. Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) and gently sand the stained area, following the wood grain to avoid scratches.
  • Be cautious not to over-sand, as this can remove protective finishes or weaken the surface.
  • After sanding, apply a wood-specific oil or sealant to restore the finish and protect against future damage.

Additional Care Tips for Wooden Furniture

• Seasonal Maintenance: Apply a protective wood treatment, such as teak oil or a weatherproof sealant, at least once a year. This helps to prevent cracking, warping, and water damage.
• Regular Dusting: Dust your wooden furniture weekly with a dry microfibre cloth to remove dirt and pollen before they settle.
• Avoid Prolonged Moisture Exposure: Place your furniture on a raised surface or patio to prevent contact with wet grass or soil, which can encourage rot.
• Use Covers: Protect your furniture from rain and harsh sun with outdoor furniture covers when not in use.

How to clean plastic garden furniture

Plastic garden furniture is a practical choice for many households. It’s lightweight, budget-friendly, and requires minimal upkeep compared to other materials. However, it isn’t invincible—constant exposure to sunlight, rain, and dirt can cause fading, stains, or even brittleness over time. Regular cleaning is key to keeping plastic furniture looking vibrant and ready for use.

Warm Water Cleaning

• Use Warm Soapy Water: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid soap or dishwashing detergent. This solution is tough enough to break down grease and grime but gentle on the plastic surface.
  • For furniture with intricate designs or grooves, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be handy for reaching tricky spots.
• Remove Tough Stains: If there are stubborn stains or mildew spots, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area and let it sit for 15–20 minutes before scrubbing gently. For extra power, use a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water to clean mildew or algae growth.

Drying Plastic Furniture

Proper drying is a crucial yet often overlooked step in cleaning plastic furniture. Letting water air dry can leave streaks, water spots, or unsightly marks on the surface.

• Wipe with a Soft Towel: After rinsing, use a clean, absorbent towel to wipe the furniture dry. Pay extra attention to corners and seams where water can pool.
• Air Drying: If you prefer air drying, place the furniture in a shaded area with good airflow. Direct sunlight may speed up drying but can also cause the plastic to fade or become brittle over time.

Additional Care for Plastic Furniture

• Protect from UV Rays: Prolonged sun exposure can fade colours and weaken the structure of plastic furniture. Use furniture covers or move the pieces into a shaded area when not in use.
  • Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Avoid bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemical cleaners as they can degrade the plastic or cause discolouration. Instead, opt for DIY cleaning solutions with natural ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice. These gentle alternatives are effective at removing dirt, stains, and mildew without causing harm to the plastic.
• Prevent Scratches: Always use soft cleaning tools to avoid scratches that can trap dirt or reduce the furniture’s aesthetic appeal.
• Store Properly: During off-seasons or bad weather, store your plastic furniture indoors or under a weatherproof cover to protect it from extreme temperatures.

How to clean garden furnitures: The checklist you need

Stay organised with this handy checklist for a spotless outdoor area:

With these steps, your garden furniture will look as good as new—ready for garden parties, quiet reading afternoons, or just soaking up some sun. What are you waiting for? Bring your outdoor haven back to life today!

Feeling overwhelmed? We’re here to help! Book a cleaning service with Wecasa, and let us tackle your to-do list. We’ll make your outdoor space shine brighter than ever!