How To Clean Outdoor Furniture For Summer

Gordon Williams March 8, 2026

Subheading: Why You Should Clean Your Outdoor Furniture

When summer arrives, cleaning your outdoor furniture becomes a necessary task. As the furniture stays outdoors, it is exposed to various elements like dust, pollen, rain, and bird droppings. These elements can make the furniture look old and dirty, reducing its aesthetic appeal.

Subheading: Gathering Your Cleaning Materials

Before you start cleaning your outdoor furniture, gather your cleaning materials. You will need a bucket, mild soap, water, soft scrub brush, garden hose, and drying towels. Using improper tools or harsh cleaning detergents can damage the furniture material.

Subheading: Cleaning Different Types of Outdoor Furniture

  1. Plastic Furniture: Mix soap and warm water in a bucket. Using a soft scrub brush, clean the surface of the furniture. Rinse it off with a garden hose and dry thoroughly with a towel.

  2. Metal Furniture: Clean metal furniture using slightly soapy water and a sponge or soft cloth. Rinse well with a hose and dry completely to prevent rust.

  3. Wooden Furniture: For wooden furniture, use a special wood cleaner. Scrub the furniture using a brush with soft bristles. Rinse and dry the furniture thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew formation.

  4. Wicker Furniture: For wicker furniture, an old toothbrush can help clean hard-to-reach places. Use mild soapy water for cleaning and dry it off in indirect sunlight to prevent it from becoming brittle.

  5. Cushions and fabrics: If covers are removable, wash them according to label instructions. If they’re not, use a solution of mild soap and water, rinse, and dry in the sun.

Subheading: Maintaining Your Outdoor Furniture

After cleaning, it is essential to maintain the furniture to prolong its life. For metal and wooden furniture, consider applying a protective sealant or paint. Regularly dust off your furniture and wipe away bird droppings or food spills immediately.

Remember, the cleaner your outdoor space is, the more you’ll enjoy it. And, while getting your outdoor area ready for summer, don’t forget about your house’s exterior, especially your roof. If it’s in need of a clean, consider using professional roof cleaning services in St. Augustine.

By following these steps, you’ll have clean, inviting outdoor furniture all summer long, making it the perfect spot for BBQs, parties, or just chilling with a book and a cool drink.