The importance of well-maintained commercial outdoor furniture cannot be overstated… that much is true.
Over time, exposure to elements like sun, rain, dust, and pollution can cause furniture to accumulate dirt, develop rust, or fade, potentially driving away customers. The key to keeping outdoor furnishings in pristine condition? Regular and thorough cleaning.
Join us at Style Matters as take you through the practical, step-by-step advice on how to clean different types of commercial outdoor furniture. Follow our advice and ensure your furniture remains inviting, durable, and in tip-top condition.
Contents:
The first step is the easiest – understand the type of material you’re dealing with.
Outdoor furniture comes in a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and specific cleaning needs. Steel, faux wood, wicker, plastic – whatever yours is made from, knowing the best cleaning practices for each will help preserve its appearance and durability.
So, before you even start cleaning, identify the materials. If your furniture is made from steel, you’ll know that it can rust if not maintained. If it’s made from aluminium, you’ll be aware that it can oxidise. If you have furniture made from the likes of faux wood and plastic, you’ll know that they can stain or dull over time, despite being resistant to moisture. Even wicker and fabric cushions need regular cleaning to avoid mould and mildew.
Once you’ve established what the different materials are, then you can move on to the next step…
Cleaning effectively whilst avoiding damage – this is your aim, which means having the right cleaning supplies on hand. These include the likes of:
Mild, Non-Detergent Soap: Ideal for most materials without stripping away protective finishes.
White Vinegar and Baking Soda: Effective for removing rust, oxidation, and general grime.
Rust Removers: Useful for treating stubborn rust spots on metal furniture.
Oxygen Bleach: A safer alternative to chlorine bleach for removing tough stains on coloured fabrics or faux wood.
Disinfectant Bleach: Essential for sanitising surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas like bars.
Microfibre Cloths and Soft Brushes: Ideal for dusting and gentle scrubbing to avoid scratches.
Protective Coatings (Wax, Sealants): To preserve the finish and protect against the elements.
Wicker furniture, whether natural or synthetic, requires regular maintenance to keep it looking fresh and prevent damage. Wicker’s woven structure tends to trap dust, dirt, and debris, making regular cleaning essential.
Dust and Vacuum Regularly: Use a soft-bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the woven crevices. For a deeper clean, a handheld vacuum with gentle suction can help reach difficult areas without causing damage.
Wash with a Mild Soap Solution: Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water, then use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the wicker. Avoid soaking the wicker, as excessive moisture can weaken the fibres. For natural wicker, take extra care to avoid oversaturating the material, which can lead to warping or mildew growth.
Deep Clean for Stubborn Stains: For stubborn stains or mildew spots, use a soft brush dipped in a diluted solution of white vinegar and water. Gently scrub the affected areas, taking care not to damage the wicker. Rinse the area with a damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly in the sun (or under cover if raining) to prevent mould growth.
Protect with a Sealant or Varnish: Applying a protective sealant or varnish specifically designed for wicker can help guard against moisture and UV damage. This step is especially important for natural wicker, which is more prone to drying out and cracking under prolonged sun exposure. Reapply the sealant annually for optimal protection.
Outdoor seating cushions are exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to dirt, stains, mould, and mildew. Proper care involves regular cleaning and certain preventative measures.
Remove and Machine Wash Covers: If your cushions have removable covers, check the care labels and wash them in a washing machine using a mild detergent. Use a gentle cycle with cold water to preserve the fabric’s colour and texture. Avoid using bleach, which can weaken fabrics and cause fading, unless the cushions are white and bleach-safe.
Spot Clean Non-Removable Cushions: For cushions with non-removable covers, mix a mild detergent with lukewarm water. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the stained areas. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to allow the cushions to dry thoroughly, preventing mould and mildew from developing.
Deep Clean for Mould and Mildew: For cushions showing signs of mould or mildew, a solution of oxygen bleach diluted in water can be used. Apply the solution to the affected areas and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Avoid chlorine bleach, as it can damage coloured fabrics and degrade them over time.
Ensure Proper Drying: After cleaning, it’s crucial to dry the cushions completely to prevent moisture-related issues. Lay the cushions flat in a sunny, breezy area (if the weather permits). If possible, stand the cushions upright to allow air circulation on all sides. Avoid putting them in a dryer, as this can damage the fabric and fillings.
Apply a Fabric Protector: To further protect outdoor cushions from stains and fading, consider applying a fabric protector. This can help repel water and stains, keeping your cushions looking new for longer. Reapply the protector after every wash or deep clean to maintain its effectiveness.
Store Cushions When Not in Use: Prolong the life of your outdoor cushions by storing them during bad weather or when not in use for extended periods.
Without proper care, metal furniture, such as steel and aluminium, is susceptible to issues like rust, corrosion, and oxidation.
Regular cleaning and maintenance, using the right techniques and materials, are what’s needed to keep outdoor metal furniture looking pristine. Here’s how to do just that:
Remove Rust Spots Quickly: Rust can be a common issue with steel furniture, especially if the protective finish wears off. For small rust spots, use coarse-grit sandpaper or steel wool to gently scrub the affected area.
For more extensive rust, consider using a wire brush or a grinder attachment on a power tool to remove the bulk of the rust. Be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear during this process to avoid injury from metal fragments.
Apply a Rust Dissolver for Deep Cleaning: After manually removing as much rust as possible, apply a rust-dissolving gel or a homemade solution of white vinegar and baking soda to the rusty areas.
Rust dissolvers are effective in breaking down the remaining rust particles. Let the solution sit on the affected areas for about 10–15 minutes, and scrub gently with a soft brush.
Rinse Off and Dry Immediately: After removing rust and dirt, rinse the steel furniture thoroughly with clean water to wash away any remaining cleaning solution or rust particles. Use a microfiber cloth or paper towels to dry the furniture immediately to prevent flash rusting, which can occur if water is left on the surface for too long.
Protect with a Rust-Resistant Finish: To keep your steel furniture looking new and prevent future rusting, apply a layer of rust-resistant primer followed by a clear protective coat or paint specifically designed for metal surfaces.
Treat Oxidation Spots with Care: Although aluminium doesn’t rust like steel, it can oxidize, leading to a dull, chalky appearance. To remove oxidation spots, use a metal polishing paste or a solution made of equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the oxidized areas with a soft cloth, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.
Wash with a Non-Abrasive Cleaner: After treating oxidation, wash the entire aluminium piece with a non-abrasive cleaning product and a damp, soft cloth. Products that contain ammonia or trisodium phosphate (TSP) should be avoided, as they can further oxidize the metal.
Clean Regularly with Mild Solutions: Use a mild cleaning solution made from baking soda and warm water or a vinegar-water mix. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt and stains.
Treat Stubborn Stains with Baking Soda: For persistent stains, sprinkle baking soda on the area and scrub gently with a damp sponge. Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness helps lift stains without scratching.
Rinse and Apply Wax: Rinse thoroughly and dry. Applying a layer of paste wax can enhance the shine and provide a protective barrier against dirt and moisture.
While cleaning is very important, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes that could damage your furniture:
Avoid Pressure Washing: High-pressure washers can strip finishes and damage materials, leading to costly repairs.
Skip Harsh Chemicals on Eating Surfaces: Use food-safe disinfectants and cleaners on tables to avoid toxic residue.
Don’t Delay Repairs: Address any signs of damage quickly to avoid more extensive problems that could compromise the furniture’s integrity.
At Style Matters, we provide a range of bespoke outdoor furniture options that cater to every style and need.
Explore our portfolio or contact us for a personalised consultation on how to make your outside space stand out with the perfect furniture. Call us on 01565740342 to get started.
Style Matters
Pickmere Lane,
Pickmere, Knutsford
WA16 0JJ
