5 Ways to Extend The Life of Your Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture can make any deck or backyard an inviting oasis. It is an investment, so you want to keep the pieces looking good for as long as possible. Throughout the seasons, there are a few housekeeping tasks you can do to extend the life of your outdoor furniture.

1. Dust or Vacuum Them

Depending on the material and construction, dusting or vacuuming the chairs will keep the grime out of the cracks and crevices. When the furniture is outside, it naturally attracts pollen, loose dirt, and other particles. Dust any flat surface with a microfiber cloth. Gently touch and tap wicker and other rough textures with a vacuum nozzle. Doing this at least once a month will keep buildup to a minimum.

2. Rinse

After dusting and vacuuming, rinse the furniture off. Use your garden hose. Use a sprayer if the materials are sturdy, such as iron or heavy plastic, but do not use a pressure nozzle on wicker or soft plastics. The force could damage the plastic or weaken the wicker weave.

3. Wash if Necessary

If the furniture gets a thick layer of grime or becomes moldy, you may have to use soap or a commercial cleaner. Before washing, check with the manufacturer to see what products they recommend. If it is safe to use a mild cleanser, mix a few drops of dish soap or a mild liquid laundry detergent with a bucket of warm water. Use a sponge to work the soapy water through the oil and film then rinse clean. Wash any fabric or cushions as directed.

4. Cover or Store

When your outdoor season is over, cover the pieces you will not be using. If you do not have covers shaped for your chairs, you can use water-resistant fabric, and drape it over the top. Lightly tie a string around the middle section. You will want air to be able to flow underneath the cloth. During the rainy seasons, check the covers and dump off any standing water. If the sun comes out, unwrap them and let them get some light. This will help prevent mold. If you have space, store them inside, in a garage, or a mini-storage.

5. Watch Placement

If your furniture adorns a wooden deck, keep the wood properly sealed and the bottom of the legs capped to preserve the decking and the chairs. If the items are going to be placed on grass, wash the feet and legs often, and watch for wear. A worn foot can make a chair or table lopsided and might accidentally dump cold drinks or a guest.

Having outdoor furniture makes BBQs and long summer nights more comfortable. The versatile pieces can match your decorating style and still be functional. With some basic cleaning and maintenance, your outdoor furniture can last many seasons.