Outdoor furniture cleaning

Cleaning outdoor furniture is essential to maintain its appearance and longevity, as it is constantly exposed to weather, dirt, and debris. The cleaning method depends on the material:

Plastic furniture

Use warm water mixed with a mild detergent and scrub with a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt and stains. Hose down with water to remove soap residue.

Avoid abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch the surface.

Wood furniture

Wipe with a soft cloth dampened with soapy water. For stubborn stains, use a wood-specific cleaner. Rinse with a low-pressure garden hose. Apply a wood sealant or protective oil after cleaning to prevent moisture absorption and cracking.

Metal furniture

Remove dirt with a damp cloth and soapy water. Use a rust remover or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda for rust. Then hose down gently, ensuring thorough drying to prevent rust. If needed, repaint or apply a protective coating to damaged areas to prevent corrosion.

Fabric and cushions

Vacuum to remove dust, then spot-clean with a fabric-safe cleaner or a solution of water and mild detergent. After that,  wipe with a damp cloth or rinse lightly if the fabric is waterproof. Allow the furniture to dry completely to prevent mildew.

Wicker furniture

Brush away dirt using a soft-bristle brush, then clean with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Wipe down with a damp cloth instead of hosing, as excess water can damage the wicker. For natural wicker, use a wood preservative after cleaning.

Power washing is suitable for tough grime, mold, and dirt that regular cleaning can’t remove. It is best used for plastic, metal, or composite furniture with no intricate detailing. Do not power wash more delicate furniture – made from wicker, untreated wood, or fabric, – as high pressure can cause warping, splintering, or tearing. In some cases it is better to ask for professional help https://happywindowcleaners.ca/services/power-washing/. The cases when professional power washing is needed are:

• If you’re unsure about how to use power washers or don’t have the time or proper equipment to clean large or intricate pieces, professionals can handle everything from the right pressure setting to ensuring furniture is not damaged during the process.
• If your outdoor furniture or surrounding surfaces (such as patios or decks) have heavy staining, moss, or mold growth that cannot be removed with regular cleaning.
• For large-scale outdoor furniture sets or multiple pieces spread across an expansive area, a professional service can efficiently clean everything in a shorter time.
• If your furniture is made of materials that require more gentle power washing, or if it’s positioned in hard-to-reach places (like high balconies or intricate garden furniture), professionals have the expertise and equipment to adjust pressure settings and avoid causing damage.
• Furniture on elevated areas such as high decks, balconies, or roofs may be dangerous to clean on your own.
• If your outdoor furniture needs additional services, like restoring weathered metal or wood, or if you want to apply a protective sealant after cleaning, professionals can manage both the cleaning and the post-care treatments for lasting results.