Tips for Maintaining Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Outdoor furniture may be designed to withstand the elements, but it still can succumb to wear-and-tear over time. Constant exposure to UV rays from the sun’s UV rays can weaken wood and fade fabric over time; snow, rain and cold temperatures can also compromise its integrity and cause irreparable harm.

Regular cleaning will reduce mildew growth on wicker furniture, while applying paste wax can help protect metal pieces against rusting. In order to keep moisture at bay during winter storage of wooden and woven furniture is recommended using breathable covers.

Keep It Clean

Outdoor furniture is constantly exposed to elements like sunlight, wind and rain which can wear away its materials such as fabric, metal and wood over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help extend its life and ensure they’re ready to use when you need them – from deep-cleaning cushions and power-washing frames and surfaces, all the way to restoring teak wood surfaces and prepping furniture for winter storage. Read up on essential tips here.

Different fabrics require specific cleaning methods in order to prevent mildew, mold and stains from accumulating on them. A mixture of mild soap and water usually suffices, while for stubborn dirt spots some fabrics might benefit from additional treatments like fabric-protector spray or bleach solutions with two tablespoons oxygen bleach per gallon of water – always test cleaning or treatment solutions on an inconspicuous spot before applying them across your entire piece.

Many types of outdoor furniture are naturally weather resistant, yet it is still important to regularly clean your pieces to protect them against the elements. No matter whether it be bamboo, eucalyptus, teak or mahogany wood furniture; wood-look resin products; treated or untreated wood furniture – it is vital that at least once annually you wash its surface with mild soap mixture – making sure to scrub against the grain direction in order to prevent water spots before rinsing it clean in order to allow time for drying out completely before reusing it again.

Cover your furniture when not in use to prevent dust and debris from collecting on it, as this will keep dust at bay and ensure cushion and pillow covers don’t lose their shape while being stored outside, and be sure to have TOSTERO storage bags or boxes on hand to store cushions and pillows properly without losing their shapes while stored outdoors. Lint-free towels and rags should also be available for quick cleanups. Pollen blocking hedges or screens in your yard are another great way of decreasing pollen exposure; regular dusting as well as doing a seasonal deep-clean will help keep pollen at bay – these efforts will help ensure an environment free from pollen-generated pollen dust-based debris!

Protect It from the Elements

Outdoor furniture typically comes equipped with manuals or care labels that provide valuable insights into its material composition, cleaning needs and maintenance schedule. To get the best value out of these manuals and care labels, read them thoroughly – paying special attention to any notes regarding weather damage or required cleaning techniques.

At the core of maintaining patio furniture is keeping it protected from the elements as much as possible, in order to minimize cleaning requirements and extend its lifespan. Keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from windblown dirt and pollen can help avoid allergen buildup that leaves unsightly marks behind on its surfaces.

For wood patio furniture like teak and cedar, regularly applying a water repellant can help lower the risk of moisture damage and sun fading. Available at most hardware stores, these products can be applied using cloth or brush application. When it comes to cleaning wicker furniture, its weave and material may dictate which is the most suitable cleaning method – typically, non-abrasive cleaners combined with gentle soap or vinegar mixture will do just fine.

Metal and plastic patio furniture are usually powder coated, painted or varnished to protect them against rust or corrosion, but it’s still good practice to regularly use a mild soap and warm water mixture to clean these items – particularly before or after heavy pollen seasons begin. Scrub these items using soft brushing techniques or sponge scrubbing before rinsing, using soft broom or sponge for best results; for stubborn rust spots use fine-grit sandpaper, small wire brushing or auto polishing compounds; for stubborn spots use auto polishing compounds if necessary or repainting products designed specifically for outdoor furniture will also help.

If your patio furniture features fabric cushions or seats, it is wise to treat them with an antimicrobial spray in order to avoid mold and mildew growth. Also consider rotating fabric furniture cushions and pillows regularly so as to avoid wear on specific areas; an outdoor tarp covering your patio provides additional protection from rainwater and UV rays for fabric elements in furniture pieces.

Store It Properly

No matter whether it’s for a family dinner or neighborhood block party, comfy outdoor furniture is key to enjoying the sunshine. Unfortunately, unprotected pieces can succumb to elements and suffer irreparable damage over time.

To extend the lifespan of patio chairs, deck benches and tables for years of enjoyment come springtime, it’s crucial that they’re stored correctly during their off-season storage period. Doing this will prevent your investment from turning into rusty or moldy pieces when warmer temperatures return.

Step one of winterizing your furniture involves giving it a thorough cleaning. Begin by taking apart and washing all cushions and fabric elements according to their care labels; rinse and let dry completely before replacing on furniture.

Carefully examine each piece of furniture for any signs of cracks or damage that need attention before storing them – this way you won’t get hit with an unexpected bill come springtime!

Metal furniture can corrode when exposed to moisture, so it is crucial that any surfaces are thoroughly wiped down and treated with protective coating such as paste wax before being stored for winter storage. Applying paste wax may reduce corrosion risks during this process.

Wooden furniture can warp and crack when exposed to moisture or freezing temperatures, so when possible it is best to store wooden outdoor furniture indoors or in a garage/shed specifically designed for furniture storage. Otherwise a breathable fabric cover designed specifically for furniture can provide added protection.

When storing outdoor furniture in an unprotected area, it’s a smart idea to secure covers or cushions to the furniture with straps to prevent them from flying off in high winds. Also make sure umbrellas are securely fastened at their bases in case a storm or gust hits and sends them flying off! By following these expert tips you can extend the life of your outdoor decor for years. So enjoy your favorite backyard spots this winter and summertime memories without fear that quality patio furniture won’t withstand harsh elements until next year when reclaiming it again.

Repair It

When your furniture and decor begin showing their age, a bit of TLC can often bring them back to looking and functioning like new. Painting many pieces – particularly metal pieces susceptible to rusting – with exterior-grade paint tailored specifically for each material type with antirust and UV protection properties is often all it takes. If you want some assistance on how to give old patio furniture an update, check out these detailed tutorials from Joyfully Treasured and Green With Decor for inspiration.

Even if your outdoor furniture is constructed from weather-resistant materials such as solution-dyed acrylic or olefin, wear and tear can still take its toll over time. When faded colors, fraying and thinning become severe enough, recovering with new fabric could be necessary – thankfully recovering outdoor furniture can be completed at home without too much difficulty; with just a bit of planning and effort you could give your chair, chaise lounge or sectional an updated look that will stand the test of time!

Wood furniture can quickly become infested with mold and mildew during rainy seasons, necessitating regular cleaning. A mild soap and water mixture should be used to wipe down stains before scrubbng as necessary; dry the piece afterward thoroughly to prevent the growth of any fungi or bacteria growth. To help avoid future stain formation altogether, invest in outdoor cushions made from antimicrobial fabrics with moisture wicking properties which will keep chairs and tables looking their best!

Though it’s ultimately up to each homeowner, many opt to seal their wooden furniture after each cleaning in order to help protect its finish from elements like water and air exposure. When sealant your wooden pieces be sure to use one designed specifically for them – using high quality sealants will protect both you and your investment for many years ahead. Re-seal every year or three for best results!