If you have ever had that time when the sun comes out after those long winter months and you are ready to enjoy your wonderful outside space, whether you have a large garden, a small garden or just a balcony, and you want to sit and relax you will know how important it is to have the right garden furniture at your disposal.
Nothing is worse than being ready to enjoy the sunshine and having nothing to sit on or under. The tables, chairs, sofa, and bench are covered in what can only be described as a layer of dirt, mould and detritus.
You just threw them all away last Autumn when the rain was getting heavy, and now, they are green and smelly. What could or should you have done to prevent this from happening?
That is easy, and we will show you exactly how to look after those vital ingredients for any long summer in your garden.
Maintaining Wooden Garden Furniture
Wooden garden furniture, like wooden benches are a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. However, exposure to the elements can cause it to deteriorate over time if not properly maintained. To keep your wooden garden furniture looking its natural colour, cleaning and protecting it regularly is essential.
Start by sweeping off any debris or dirt from the surface of the wood. Then gently scrub any remaining dirt or stains with a soft-bristled brush and warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before applying any protective finish.
To protect your hardwood garden furniture from moisture and sun damage, lightly sand it, apply a coat of sealant or oil-based (teak oil, or natural oils) stain every year or as needed. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions carefully when applying these products and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the wood.
Regularly taking care of your wooden garden furniture ensures it will last many years of outdoor enjoyment. With just a little effort, you can keep this natural material looking beautiful and functional and most importantly water resistant for future seasons!
Maintaining Rattan Garden Furniture
Rattan garden furniture adds a touch of elegance and class to any outdoor space. However, it also requires proper maintenance to ensure it lasts many years. One essential aspect of maintaining rattan garden furniture is cleaning.
Regularly clean your rattan furniture using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. This helps remove dust, dirt, and debris from the crevices between the woven fibres. For stubborn stains, use a gentle soap solution and warm water to scrub the affected areas gently.
Another crucial aspect of maintaining rattan garden furniture is protecting it from harsh weather conditions. Direct sunlight can cause fading and drying out of the natural fibres over time. Therefore, consider placing your rattan furniture in shaded areas or covering them with protective covers during sunny days or rainy seasons.
Lastly, avoid exposing your outdoor furniture directly to moisture, which can cause mould growth and rotting of the natural fibres. Instead, wipe off any spills immediately using a dry cloth and allow enough air circulation around the pieces to prevent humidity build-up, which could damage their textures over time.”
Maintaining Metal Garden Furniture
Metal garden furniture is popular due to its durability and longevity. However, it still requires regular maintenance to keep it looking good and in top condition. One of the simplest ways to maintain metal garden furniture is by cleaning it regularly with mild soap and water. This will prevent dirt from building up on the furniture’s surface, which can lead to rust or other damage.
Another way to maintain metal garden furniture is by applying a protective coat of wax or oil. This will help protect the metal from moisture, which can cause rust or corrosion over time. Choosing a product specifically designed for outdoor metal surfaces is essential, as these will be more effective and long lasting at protecting your furniture from environmental damage.
If you notice any signs of rust or corrosion on your metal garden furniture, don’t ignore them! Instead, take steps immediately to repair the affected areas using a rust converter or primer paint. These products are specially formulated to prevent cracks and stop further damage and prevent rust from spreading throughout your entire piece of furniture. With proper care and attention, your metal garden furniture can last many years without showing wear and tear!
Maintaining Plastic Furniture
One of the easiest pieces of patio sets to maintain as plastic is so durable it is less likely to be ravished by the elements.
That said, if left untreated it can become mouldy and slightly discoloured in both the storage over the winter months and the intense sunlight during the summer months.
The best and most time efficient way to clean plastic garden furniture is using a pressure washer to remove any hard to reach stains. Ensure that you have it on the lowest setting and do not get too close as some jet washing machines can be very powerful and cause irreparable damage.
If you do not have access to a pressure washer then warm soap and water will suffice, scrubbing with a moderately stiff brush for those tougher pieces and a simple wipe with a lint free cloth once you have finished will have them looking sparkly and fresh again in no time at all.
Maintaining A Garden Parasol
Regularly maintaining a garden parasol as part of your patio furniture is crucial to ensure its longevity and durability. The first step in maintaining your garden parasol is to clean it regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or spider webs that may have accumulated on the fabric. If there are stubborn stains, gently scrub them off with mild soap and water.
After cleaning your garden parasol, ensure it’s completely dry before storing it away. Moisture can cause mould and mildew growth, leading to irreparable damage over time. It’s recommended that you store your garden parasol in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Lastly, if you notice any tears or rips on the fabric of your garden parasol, repair them as soon as possible. Ignoring such damages will only worsen the situation and eventually compromise its integrity. You can either patch up small tears with adhesive patches or seek professional help for more extensive repairs.
Maintaining your garden parasol doesn’t have to be complicated; regular cleaning and proper storage should ensure its longevity and functionality for years.
Maintaining Garden Furniture Cushions
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your garden furniture cushions looking their best. One of the most critical steps in maintaining these cushions is to clean them regularly with a damp cloth or sponge. This will help remove any dirt, grime, or stains that may have accumulated on the surface over time.
Another critical aspect of maintaining cushions is to protect them from harsh weather conditions. When not in use, it’s recommended that you store your cushions indoors or cover them with a waterproof material such as a tarpaulin or plastic sheeting. This will prevent moisture from seeping into the fabric and causing mould or mildew growth.
Finally, if you notice any tears or holes in your garden furniture cushion covers, it’s important to repair them promptly to prevent further damage. You can use adhesive tape designed for outdoor fabrics or sew up the damaged area with a needle and thread. By following these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your garden furniture cushions last for years and continue providing comfort and style throughout every season!
Tighten Up The Nuts, Bolts And Screws
As with all furniture, especially outdoor furniture, the framework will be held together with either nuts and bolts or screws and as with any material that has been exposed to the full force of Mother Nature, these will also deteriorate over time, so a simple check every few days will ensure that the tables, chairs and sun lounger does not fall apart.
Applying sealant to any metalwork is always a good idea when storing any garden furniture away for the winter. Using products like WD40 will keep these critical pieces of the furniture lubricated and rust-free for the following season.
In Conclusion
Regular maintenance and care of any or all of your garden, including tables, chairs, sofas, patio sets, parasols, canopies and cushions, will ensure their longevity.
Daily exposure of your patio furniture to the elements will cause all of the furniture to perish, so maintaining cleanliness and proper storage in the colder winter months will restore it to its former glory and give you less to do when the sun eventually comes back out to play.
