Picture this. The sun is shining, and you’re sitting in your garden, enjoying a light breeze with a glass of Pimm’s. You’ve just bought a new bench, dining set or picnic table that perfectly enhances your garden’s aesthetic.

We’re sure you’re wondering how you can make the most of your investment so that it lasts and looks good for as long as possible. With so many different materials to choose from, it can be tricky trying to figure out what’s the best method, but with this handy guide, you’ll be able to find some tips on how to take care of and clean your outdoor garden furniture.

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Why should I protect my outdoor garden furniture?

Protecting your outdoor garden furniture is incredibly important to keep it looking its best. The weather, especially when it rains, can have a huge impact on the appearance and integrity of your furnishings if they aren’t taken care of properly. Additionally, some materials need more attention than others. The end of the summer season is the perfect time to prepare your furniture before the harsh winter months. So, let’s get started to see what you need to do.

How to treat and clean wooden garden furniture

A wooden bench with a magazine on it, next to a brick wall.

Wooden furniture is a popular option as it can complement the natural landscape of your garden. Hardwood is low maintenance and is longer lasting than softwoods. On the other hand, softwood offers a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood. It can also be painted, giving you the freedom to add a splash of colour to your patio.

Before treating your garden furniture, make sure to check the weather forecast as you will need to dedicate a few days to this project. Dry weather with temperatures above 5°C and light winds would be optimal. Thoroughly cleaning your wooden garden furniture with hot soapy water and leaving it to dry for one to two days will ensure the surface is ready for treatment. Once dry, lightly sand the surface and wipe away any dust or debris. Stir the treatment to prevent any colour variations, then apply the first coat along the direction of the grain. Wait at least one hour before adding the second coat. After 48 hours, your furniture will be ready for you to sit and enjoy in your garden for one year before requiring another protective layer.

To apply oil, you should use a long-haired brush with natural bristles. For staining, you can use a lint-free cloth or paintbrush.

Hardwood

You’ll be pleased to hear that hardwood is incredibly durable as it contains natural oils which allow it to age gracefully. This means that it doesn’t necessarily need to be treated since it will naturally develop a weathered patina over time. However, if you want to keep a new appearance with a less weathered look, you can add wood stains or clear hardwood oils to treat the surface. Oils can help prevent your wooden furniture from drying out and cracking along the grain.

It is important to note that you should not apply these to new oak or wet furniture as it will cause the wood to blacken. Painting hardwood is not recommended as the paint will be absorbed into the surface, causing a patchy appearance. Some hardwoods, like roble, are not suitable for use with oil, so you should be careful to check before applying.

If you’re leaving your hardwood furniture to weather naturally, the only maintenance required will be annual cleaning. This can be accomplished with a brush and soapy water to remove any dirt, moss, lichen or algae.

A wooden table with wine and food and chairs with cushions on a patio.

Softwood

Softwood furniture requires a bit more upkeep than hardwood furniture but is an affordable option. If you keep up with maintenance, you can make sure your furnishings look good for longer and last, so you can get your money’s worth. If you don’t take care of your softwood furniture, it will only last a few years.

You can apply preservative stains or oil-based paints to revive your furniture. Painting or staining your wooden garden furniture will add a touch of colour while protecting against rot, UV light and water damage.

For optimal care, regular cleaning and treatment are recommended at least once a year. You should use your discretion if you think it needs to be done sooner. A specialised wood-cleaning solution, such as Wood Revive, and two to three coats of wood stain or preservative-based paint will ensure your furniture maintains its pristine condition. When treating your furniture with a preservative, make sure to focus on water-collecting areas, horizontal surfaces and parts in contact with damp soil. These vulnerable spots will require extra attention to shield them from potential damage.

How to protect and clean metal garden furniture

Metal garden furniture typically needs repainting every two to three years to maintain a weatherproof barrier. You might be surprised to hear that aluminium garden furniture won’t rust but it will oxidise. To remove oxidisation or light stains, you can simply wipe the surface down with a 50/50 ratio of mild acid (such as lemon juice or white vinegar) and water solution.

If your outdoor furniture is made of iron or steel, you will need to check for any exposed scratches in the coating, revealing the metal beneath. These abrasions will need to be treated with rust-preventing paint after you have removed any loose material. If the surface is already rusty, remove it with sandpaper or steel wool. Then, touch it up with two to three coats of matching exterior metal paint. If the joints and fixings are particularly stubborn, you can use WD40 or oil to enable free movement.

Cleaning your metal garden furniture is effortless as all you need is warm water, a mild, non-detergent soap and a soft sponge or cloth, taking care not to scratch the surface with an abrasive material. If you see any bird droppings, make sure to remove them as soon as possible to prevent permanent staining.

How to clean and maintain rattan garden furniture

Cleaning your synthetic rattan furniture will keep it looking as good as new. It is straightforward to look after due to its resilience against UV radiation and most weather conditions. To remove any loose dirt, you can use a vacuum with the brush attachment. Then, all you need is warm soapy water and a brush for occasional cleaning to keep on top of dust and mould, which can accumulate between the layers. To finish, simply rinse with clean water, so that there isn’t a build-up of soap.

You should also make sure to keep an eye on the frame because if it is made from steel, you will have to check for rusting, much like other metal furniture, and treat it when required. If you have old rattan furniture that appears a bit tired, you can use a cloth and some tung oil or boiled linseed oil to help prolong its life and minimise fibre cracking.

Rattan table and chairs with cushions on a patio.

How to clean plastic garden furniture

With minimal maintenance needs, frequently cleaning your plastic garden furniture with warm water, soap and a sponge will keep it looking as good as new. And that’s all that’s necessary.

You can even dilute bleach with water and use a cloth to remove any tough stains, but only if you have white plastic furniture. For stubborn stains on coloured furniture, you can use white vinegar, warm water and a non-abrasive sponge, so that you don’t scratch the surface.

How to make outdoor cushions last

You’re probably wondering if you can leave your patio cushions outside all year round. Well, outdoor furniture cushions are normally manufactured from water-resistant fabrics, which makes them resistant to mould and stains. However, they are not waterproof and will fade when exposed to direct sunlight. This means, when not in use, you should store them inside, just in case you get caught out. They will stay relatively dry if there is an occasional light shower though, so you don’t have to worry too much if you’ve forgotten to put them away.

Most cushion covers are removable and can be hand-washed in warm water. You should allow at least 48 hours for them to dry before putting them back on the cushions.

In the event of accidental spills, you should blot with an absorbent cloth. Then, use soapy water and gently scrub with a soft brush before rinsing and air drying.

How should I store my patio furniture in the winter?

The winter months can be an unforgiving environment, so it is essential to store your outdoor garden furniture appropriately.

For hardwood furniture, you can tilt the structure to keep the feet off the wet ground to prevent rotting. Alternatively, you can use a heavy-duty waterproof cover to keep the harsh wintry weather at bay.

Plastic furniture should be stored inside when not in use. This is because it can become brittle over time due to cold temperatures and even strong sun exposure.

For other types of garden furniture, your best option is to store it inside your shed or garage. However, if you don’t have any room, you can protect it with special covers. Moving it to a sheltered position and off your lawn is also recommended.

Final thoughts

Wooden table and chair under a green tree on a lawn during daytime

Taking care of and cleaning your garden furniture is crucial for maintaining its appearance and durability. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your furniture lasts and remains in excellent condition for years. Whether you have plastic, metal, rattan or wooden garden furniture, there are specific care instructions tailored to each material. From cleaning and treating to storing during the winter months, proper maintenance will help protect your investment and allow you to enjoy your outdoor space. Remember to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for any specific recommendations.

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