Freshen Up Your Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture must be beautiful and durable. Whether it is wicker or wood, the most durable furniture can show some age after a few seasons around the porch or pool. Follow these tips and instructions and your Outdoor Furniture will look great for years to come.

General Care Tips for Outdoor Furniture

1. Read Care Guidelines

   Read the Manufactures instructions. Using unsuitable products may damage items and void the warranty.

2. Start with a light cleaning

   Sweep the surface with a soft bristle brush and then rinse with water.

3. Use a Gentle Cleaner

   combine ¼ cup mild dishwashing soap and 1 gallon of water. Use a sponge or the soft bristle brush to scrub the furniture. Rinse and pat dry.

4. Avoid Harsh Treatments

   Do not power wash or use chlorine bleach, pine oil or abrasive cleaners unless directed.

5. Mange Mold

   Scrub or lightly sand to remove mold. Wear Gloves and discard used supplies to avoid spreading spores.

6. Protect Furniture

   Cover items when they are not in use or store them indoors. Care Tips for Wicker FurnitureWicker is a pliable weave used to make furniture. It is traditionally constructed from rattan, split reed or coated paper. Coats of clear varnish, paint are often applied to protect the surface. Use Wicker in covered spaces.

• Deep Cleaning

  Vacuum with dust brush attachment to remove dirt and debris

• Maintenance

  Wicker cannot endure harsh or abrasive treatments. Regular cleaning is recommended . This will also minimize mildew buildup. Sand lightly with sandpaper to remove any peeling paint and then touch up with paint as necessary.

Care Tips for Wood Furniture

Most Woods used for outdoor furniture naturally resist decay and withstand the elements. Sealants help preserve color and protect against wear and tear but they aren't necessary. Unfinished wood will acquire a silvery gray patina and requires little maintenance.

• Deep Cleaning

  To remove stains and mildew, mix 1 gallon of hot water with powdered oxygen bleach according to package directions. Scrub area with soft bristle brush and rinse. Sand lightly along the grain to remove rust stains or bird droppings. Do not use Chlorine Bleach as it can damage wood fibers.

• Maintenance

  Apply a clear water repellant preservative to seal the wood to protect from ultraviolet rays, dirt and moisture or to preserve color. In general you will need to do this every 1 to 3 years.