If you’ve got a spare toothbrush in your bathroom right now that is just gathering dust, you might want to take it outside. That’s according to the garden furniture experts at Royal Finesse who say there’s a very important task that a toothbrush is just perfect for.
The summer months see many people spend more time in their outdoor spaces, whether enjoying some time alone to unwind or gather with family and friends – especially with the weather being so good. And if outdoor items such as chairs and tables have gathered a lot dirt and grime, a toothbrush can be a useful tool for a scrub. Good-quality wooden garden furniture can last decades if cared for properly, so it’s important to give it the good clean it deserves.
Bradley Spencer from Royal Finesse said: “The unpredictable British weather can leave garden furniture looking less than its best at times.
“A regular deep clean can not only protect the longevity and functionality of outdoor items but give them an instant makeover too.”
How to clean garden furniture with a toothbrush
With wooden furniture, it’s recommended to use a soft cloth or sponge and water mixed with a mild soap to wipe dirt off the surfaces.
A soft-bristle toothbrush can be used to remove dirt and loose debris from crevices and hard-to-reach spots, taking care not to damage the wood by scrubbing too hard.
White vinegar mixed with water can also be useful for tackling any stubborn dirt. Finally, give the item a rinse with clean water to remove any lingering soap or vinegar and allow to dry.
Good-quality wooden garden furniture can last decades if cared for properly, depending on the type of wood, according to Bradley.
It’s recommended to conduct a deep clean at least twice a year, and reapplying a sealant or protective oil can be excellent for keeping it in good condition. However, there’s one very popular cleaning method that the experts have actually advised against.
You might think using a pressure washer is the perfect quick fix for when you need to give your garden furniture a proper clean, but the expert warned that this could do more harm than good.
He said: “Using a pressure washer to clean wooden garden furniture can be risky as it may cause damage if not done properly.
“The powerful blasts can damage the protective coating, cause chips in the wood and make it more vulnerable to water and sun damage.”