How to keep your outdoor furniture in tip top condition

Now Summer is here we are looking forward to the outdoor life of balmy evenings and barbeques. But what about unveiling the summer furniture that has been under wraps for the past nine months? If you are dreading bearing all to the neighbours, fear not, Barbara Roberts, Merry Maids expert and business owner has some handy advice on how and why it is important to keep your outdoor furniture in tip top condition.

How often should I clean my garden furniture?

• Barbara’s advice is: “Whatever the material of your furniture, it should be protected from the elements when not in use. Ideally store it away over the winter months, cleaning and drying thoroughly beforehand and again in the spring when you bring it out for use. During the summer it is a good idea to tackle any stains or marks that occur straight away and generally keeping it clean as you would your indoor furniture.”

• Barbara says: “Plastic outdoor furniture is going to be more resilient to the elements than metal and wood and is definitely the easiest to clean. First, clean off any stains or marks with a mild detergent and then simply hose it down. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing brushes as this can scratch the furniture and for a nice shine try using your regular furniture polish.” 

• Aluminium is rust free, but still requires regular cleaning, Barbara recommends using a high quality car wax for this task.
  
• Barbara advises that “painted metal furniture should be dry before cleaning. Start by cleaning out any dirt from the joints and seams with a soft brush, water and soap and follow with a gentle detergent and water, which is an effective and hassle – free way of keeping the furniture clean. Store the furniture indoors, if possible, when not in use and ensure it is dry when you do so.
  
• For wrought iron furniture, Barbara suggests cleaning with mild soap and water and leaving to dry out thoroughly. It is a good idea when cleaning to tilt the “feet” to ensure they dry properly.”

• Barbara comments: “These materials have a tendency to attract mildew (mould that grows on fabric). To tackle it use a non-ammonia soap or dishwashing detergent and if it is a pale or white fabric use a non-chlorine bleach solution to remove mouldy spots and stains. Always rinse and dry thoroughly. Vinyl materials can be cleaned with convertible car hood cleaning products.” 

• Barbara proposes that wood furniture should be stored indoors and be cleaned once or twice a year. She says: “The best way to do this is by gentle scrubbing with mild detergent and hosing down with a low pressure hose. Again dry before use.”