Home Handyman Hints - Inspecting and Cleaning Outdoor Furniture

Inspecting and cleaning outdoor furniture is important to maintain its appearance and longevity. Here are the steps to properly inspect and clean your outdoor furniture:

Materials Needed:

• Mild soap or detergent
• Warm water
• Soft cloths or sponges
• Soft-bristle brush
• Bucket
• Hose with a spray nozzle
• Tarp or drop cloth (optional)
• Protective covers (optional)
• Outdoor furniture cleaner (optional for tougher stains)

Steps:

1. Gather Your Supplies:

   • Collect all necessary cleaning supplies, including mild soap, warm water, cloths, sponges, and a brush.

2. Prepare the Cleaning Solution:

   • Mix mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bucket. Use a ratio of about 1/4 cup of soap to a gallon of water.

3. Inspect the Furniture:

   • Check for any damage, such as rust, loose screws, cracks, or splinters.
   • Tighten any loose screws or bolts and repair any minor damage you find.

4. Remove Cushions and Fabric:

   • Take off any removable cushions, covers, or fabric parts. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning these separately, often by hand washing or machine washing.

5. Rinse the Furniture:

   • Use a hose with a spray nozzle to rinse off loose dirt and debris from the furniture.

6. Clean the Furniture:

   • Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water solution and scrub the furniture gently.
   • For stubborn stains or dirt, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the area.
   • Pay special attention to crevices and hard-to-reach spots.

7. Rinse Thoroughly:

   • Rinse the furniture thoroughly with a hose to remove all soap residue.
   • Ensure all soap is washed away, as soap residue can attract dirt and damage the finish.

8. Dry the Furniture:

   • Wipe down the furniture with a dry, soft cloth to remove excess water.
   • Allow the furniture to air dry completely before replacing cushions or covers.

9. Clean Cushions and Fabric:

   • Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for any cushions or fabric parts.
   • If they are machine washable, use a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
   • For hand washing, use a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly.
   • Let cushions and fabric air dry completely before putting them back on the furniture.

10. Apply Protective Coating (Optional):

    • For wooden furniture, consider applying a protective sealant or wood oil to maintain the finish and protect against the elements.
    • For metal furniture, check for rust and apply a rust inhibitor if necessary.

11. Cover or Store Furniture:

    • Once the furniture is clean and dry, cover it with protective covers to keep it clean and protect it from the elements.
    • If possible, store the furniture indoors during the off-season to prolong its lifespan.

By following these steps, you can keep your outdoor furniture in great condition, ready to enjoy during the warmer months