Caring for Your Outdoor Furniture
I bet this summer has put your outdoor furniture to the test, from the driving rain to the relentless sun. As summer comes to a close, we find it’s a great time to give your outdoor furniture a good, thorough cleaning in anticipation of gloriously cooler days this fall. Keep reading for our best tips on caring for your outdoor furniture based on the type of product.
General Care
For pieces that are directly exposed to the elements, it’s best to keep them covered when not in use
Vacuum or wipe down pieces often to avoid build up of dirt and dust
Clean spills immediately by gently blotting with a clean, absorbent cloth
If cushions get damp or wet, prop them up to allow complete drying before putting back on your furniture
If rugs get wet, prop up with a bucket or drape over a railing to allow air flow underneath the rug for compete drying
Avoid letting leaves or debris sit on furniture for extended periods of time.
Fabric Cleaning Codes
All fabrics are associated with a specific cleaning code that defines the proper way to care for the fabric. Below you’ll find some of the more common cleaning codes. Check the manufacturer’s website for cleaning codes specific to your material. Always test a small, inconspicuous area before treating the fabric. If uncertain of best practices, opt for a professional cleaning service.
W [Water based cleaner]
Spot clean your fabric with a water-based shampoo or foam upholstery cleaner. Be careful to avoid over-wetting the stain.
S [Solvents or Dry Clean Only]
Treat stains with a water-free solvent or dry-cleaning product.
W/S [Dry Cleaning Solvents + Water-based Cleaners]
Spot clean fabrics with upholstery shampoo, foam from a mild detergent, or a mild dry cleaning solvent.
X [Vacuum or Light Brushing Only]
Clean by vacuuming or light brushing. The fabric is not cleanable with water or solvent cleaners.
Concrete
Sealed concrete is one of the easiest surfaces to be cleaned. Most can be cleaned with a simple soap and water solution. As with all products, test a small spot in an inconspicuous area before treating the entire piece.
Metal
Similar to concrete, metal furniture is one of the easiest to care for in an outdoor environment, as most are made with a rust-resistant finish. Clean with a simple soap and water solution applied with a sponge or brush. Inspect your metal pieces for any cracking paint so that a proper sealant can be applied before rust occurs.
Wicker
Exterior wicker can be made out of bamboo, rattan, or synthetic materials. Due to the tight nature of the weave, wicker can be tedious to clean, but regular maintenance will help prolong the life span of the pieces dramatically. To clean off loose dirt and dust, use a vacuum or blower. If additional residue remains, we recommend wiping down the pieces with soapy water prior to drying in the sun or with a towel.
Wood
Wood furniture can be cleaned with a variety of products based on the finish. A few products that we keep handy are: Water and Soap solution, Pine-Sol, Murphy Oil, Wood and Teak Cleaner.
