As summer is in full swing, it’s finally time to enjoy the (limited) sunshine, alfresco. However, outdoor furniture tends to only look good for the first year – then mildew, rust and rot seem to sneak in.
But there are some simple ways to keep it looking fresh all season, it just requires a bit of preparation. So, experts are sharing their advice on how to clean, protect and store your furniture so it withstands the elements stylishly.
How to clean metal and wood
Cleaning your outdoor furniture doesn’t mean blasting it with a pressure washer – in fact it’s quite the opposite.
“Start by removing any cushions or upholstery and storing them somewhere dry and airy,” says Polhill Garden Centre’s director, Josh Novell, “then tackle the furniture itself.”
For metal furniture, Novell suggests “a mix of warm water and mild dish soap […] Use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface”, while wooden furniture “needs a bit more care,” he says. “Avoid using a pressure washer, which can do more harm than good.
“For hardwoods like teak or iroko, use warm water, mild soap and a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and residue,” advises luxury outdoor furniture founder Gary Farrell from Nth Degree. “Steer clear of bleach or harsh chemicals and only sand if you’re preparing to re-oil the surface.”
It’s crucial to utilise products tailored to your furniture’s finish, otherwise opt for mild dish soap universally. “Use an appropriate wood cleaner to eliminate dirt, mildew and any winter accumulation,” advises Suns Lifestyle co-founder Reilly Gray.
“Ensure the furniture is thoroughly dry before applying any protective treatments.”
Do your utmost to protect against sun and heat
With UK heatwaves becoming increasingly frequent, protecting your furniture from harsh sunlight is no longer a choice.
“UV rays can cause fabric to fade and can also dry out wood and even crack plastic,” warns Space Station’s storage expert and marketing manager Vlatka Lake. “If you can’t store your garden furniture away, there are UV-protective sprays available for fabric and wooden surfaces.”
Extended exposure to the sun can seriously damage outdoor furniture – regardless of the material.
“The best defence is to keep your furniture in a shaded area when possible or invest in a parasol or pergola,” suggests director of British gardening brand Charles Bentley, James Bentley. “Applying a UV-resistant wood oil or protective spray every few months also helps.”
Protective products can certainly aid in preventing fading. “For wooden furniture, especially teak, it’s worth investing in protective oils and sealants that contain UV filters,” recommends Novell.
“For resin or plastic furniture, there are also UV-protectant sprays you can apply seasonally.”
Rain doesn’t have to spoil furniture
With the typically unpredictable British weather, rain showers are inevitable – but they needn’t spoil your patio set-up.
“Cushions should never be left out in the rain,” advises Novell, “even water-resistant cushions can develop mildew [you should] store them in a waterproof cushion box or indoors.”
Investing in a good waterproof cover is the best way forward. “Choose a cover made from breathable material,” suggests Lake, “as this will prevent mould and condensation from forming.”
It’s also worth considering the design of your furniture – “hardwood and powder-coated metal are designed to withstand showers,” Bentley points out. “Ideally, bring smaller items like cushions indoors and cover the frames with a weatherproof, breathable cover.”
You can even get covers specially made or tailored to ensure your furniture is fully protected, “these not only protect against rain and debris but also allow for airflow to prevent moisture build-up,” Farrell adds.
How to keep cushions mildew-free
Cushions are essential for a comfy outdoor set-up, but they’re often the first to suffer when neglected.
“Give them a brush-off and vacuum every now and then,” advises Novell. “If there are any marks, clean them with a sponge and some mild detergent.
“Make sure the cushions are bone dry before putting them away.”
It’s best to keep them indoors at all times when you’re not using them, storing them in a dry, ventilated space. “For light cleaning, use a mild mix of warm water, dish soap and white vinegar,” suggests Farrell, “but always test on a discreet area first.”
Expert recommended products
While household items like vinegar and dish soap can do the trick, there are a few products that the experts recommend investing in.
“For wood, especially teak or eucalyptus, I’d suggest a three-part system: a cleaner, a protector and a weather shield,” says Novell.
“For metal furniture, apply a rust-resistant spray,” recommends Lake, “exterior wood stain products are great for wooden furniture [and] for fabric, UV-resistant sprays can help stop the fabric from fading.”
How to store without a shed
If you don’t have indoor space to store your outdoor furniture, there are some clever alternatives to keep your pieces in good condition.
“Vertical storage will be your best option,” suggests Lake. “Use stackable storage boxes to house cushions, blankets and other small pieces of garden furniture.
“Deck boxes and garden benches that come with a built-in lid are great space-saving solutions that protect your gardening furniture without compromising too much on space.”
For outdoor furnishings that remain outside, Bentley advises to “invest in a good weatherproof cover to keep everything clean and dry,” adding, “And if you’re short on indoor space, consider a compact outdoor storage bench or wall-mounted hooks to hang smaller items.
“It’s all about making the most of what you’ve got!”.