5 Tips to Keep Outdoor Furniture Looking Good

Lindsay ~ 19 July 2006

Outdoor furniture always looks good at the store, and for a while it looks good after you bring it home too. But invariably, nature strikes. Bird droppings, mildew colonies, pine needles and leaves, dirt and grime… they all love to cake up your outdoor furniture, from the patio table to the pool-side lounge chairs. What’s the best way to fight it? Well, here are a few maintenance tips to keep your furnishings looking good:

Get off to the right start by buying furniture made from easy-to-clean materials, such as aluminum or wrought iron.
Choose lighter colors because they maintain their color better than darker hues; also light colored fabrics are less vulnerable to fading in the sun (though this is less of a problem if the furniture will be used under an awning or roof).
You can prevent nature’s stains by keeping some distance between your furnishings and the surrounding trees and bushes. Also consider spending a little more for fade- and stain-resistant fabrics.
Choose cleaning tactics depending on the material. A pressure washer on a low setting works fine to get dirt and mildew off PVC or wrought-iron furniture. Just use a damp cloth to wipe the legs and bases down on metal chairs and tables. A soft brush dipped in a mixture of warm water and mild soap is best for cleaning seat and bench cushions. Avoid bleach, which can harm fabric.
Store your furniture in the garage or basement during the winter. If there’s no room, at least use waterproof outdoor furniture covers.

More ideas: The Outdoor Living Room: Stylish Ideas for Porches, Patios, and Pools