How to Clean Outdoor Furniture and Cushions on a Budget

Outdoor furniture is made to weather the elements, but that doesn't mean it doesn't need a little tender loving care. Whether it's dusty from dry winds, spotted with mildew after a wet spell, or just needs a seasonal spruce-up, a little effort goes a long way. This guide covers affordable cleaning methods, surface-specific tips, and smart maintenance strategies to keep your patio pieces looking their best.

Understanding Outdoor Furniture Materials

Different materials need different cleaning approaches. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Timber: Teak, eucalyptus, acacia, and treated pine are common. Timber requires gentle cleaning and occasional oiling to maintain its finish.

• Metal: Aluminium, steel, and wrought iron are durable but may rust or oxidise.

• Plastic & Resin: Low-maintenance but prone to staining and sun damage.

• Wicker/Rattan: Natural or synthetic, both need careful handling and thorough drying.

• Outdoor Fabrics & Cushions: Designed to resist moisture and mildew but still benefit from regular cleaning and sun protection.

General Tips Before You Start

• Time it right: Clean in the morning or late afternoon to avoid quick drying that may leave streaks.

• Sweep or vacuum first: Remove loose dirt, leaves, and cobwebs.

• Test in a small spot: Before using any cleaner, test it on a hidden area.

• Tools you'll need:

• Soft-bristled brushes

• Garden hose or bucket

• Microfibre cloths

• Mild detergent or vinegar

• Pressure cleaner (optional, for non-delicate surfaces)

Material

Cleaning Method

Maintenance Tip

Timber

Mild soap + water, brush with grain

Re-oil annually

Metal

Vinegar + water, rinse and dry

Sand and repaint rust spots

Plastic/Resin

Vinegar + warm water, scrub, rinse

Avoid direct sun for long periods

Wicker/Rattan

Soap + water, wipe gently, dry well

Store in dry area during wet seasons

Cushions

Spot or deep clean, air dry

Store in a dry box when not in use

Budget-Friendly Cleaning Solutions for Every Material

Timber

• Mix warm water with mild dish soap.

• Use a soft-bristled brush to clean in the direction of the grain.

• Rinse well and allow to dry.

• Re-oil if timber looks faded or dry. Check out timber oils and decking care.

Metal

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.

• Scrub lightly with a cloth or non-scratch pad.

• Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.

• For rust spots, lightly sand and repaint with metal paint.

Plastic & Resin

• Use a solution of 1 cup vinegar to 2 litres of warm water.

• Scrub with a sponge or brush.

• Rinse thoroughly and leave to dry in shade.

Wicker & Rattan

• Vacuum thoroughly.

• Mix water with a few drops of dish soap.

• Wipe with a damp cloth (not soaking wet).

• Let dry completely to prevent mould.

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Cushions often bear the brunt of spills, mildew, and sun exposure.

Regular Cleaning

• Brushing: Regularly brush off any loose dirt, dust, leaves, or other debris that accumulates on the furniture surfaces. Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching or damaging the material.

• Spot Cleaning: For spills or stains, immediately blot the area with a clean cloth and mild soap mixed with water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.

• Rinsing: After spot cleaning or when the furniture is particularly dirty, rinse it down with a hose. Use a gentle spray to avoid forcing water into cracks or crevices.

• Drying: Allow the furniture to air dry completely before using or covering it. This prevents moisture buildup and mildew growth.

Additional Tips:

• Frequency: The frequency of cleaning will depend on the type of material, location, and usage. Furniture in high-traffic areas or exposed to the elements may require more frequent cleaning.

• Material-specific care: Different materials may require specific cleaning methods or products. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the best care practices.

• Covers: Consider using furniture covers when not in use to protect them from dirt, debris, and weather elements.

• Deep cleaning: For a deeper clean, consider using a specialized outdoor furniture cleaner or pressure washer with a low-pressure setting.

• Maintenance: Regularly inspect the furniture for signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Deep Cleaning

1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution:

• Combine one cup of distilled white vinegar with one teaspoon of mild dish soap.

• Dilute this mixture in two liters of warm water.

• Dip a soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution.

• Gently scrub the fabric surface, paying extra attention to stained or soiled areas.

• Work in small sections to ensure thorough cleaning.

• Once scrubbed, allow the cleaning solution to sit and soak into the fabric for 10 minutes.

• This dwell time helps loosen dirt and grime.

• Use a hose or clean water to rinse the fabric thoroughly, removing all traces of the soap and vinegar solution.

• Rinse until the water runs clear.

• Lay the fabric flat in direct sunlight to dry.

• Ensure the fabric is fully dry before using or storing the furniture to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Additional Tips:

• Test in an inconspicuous area: Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire fabric surface, test it on a hidden area to check for colorfastness.

• For tough stains: For stubborn stains, consider pre-treating with a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

• Regular maintenance: To keep outdoor furniture fabric looking its best, clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution.

• Protect from the elements: When not in use, cover your outdoor furniture or store it in a sheltered area to protect it from rain, sun, and dirt.

• Cushion care: For cushions with removable covers, follow the care instructions on the tag. Most can be machine washed or hand washed with a mild detergent.

• When not in use, store cushions in storage boxes to prevent mildew.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Problem

Fix

Mould/Mildew

Scrub with vinegar + water; use oxygen bleach for stubborn areas

Rust

Remove with steel wool; touch up with rust-resistant paint

Sun Fading

Apply UV-protective sprays or fabric guards

Greasy BBQ Spots

Dish soap + bicarb soda paste; rinse thoroughly

Bird Droppings

Soak with wet cloth, then scrub with mild soap

Protecting and Maintaining Your Furniture

Taking a few preventative measures and performing regular maintenance will significantly extend the lifespan of your outdoor furniture and keep it looking its best for years to come.

• Apply protectants:

• Timber: Apply a coat of oil to wooden furniture to protect it from moisture and prevent cracking and splitting. Reapply the oil periodically, especially after heavy rain or exposure to harsh sunlight.

• Metals: Apply a coat of rust-resistant paint to metal furniture to prevent corrosion. If you notice any rust spots, sand them down and touch them up with paint.

• Fabrics: Apply a UV spray to fabric cushions and umbrellas to protect them from fading and sun damage. Reapply the spray as needed, especially after heavy rain or prolonged exposure to sunlight.

• Use covers: Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture covers to shield your furniture from rain, snow, UV rays, and dust. This is especially important during the off-season or when you're not using the furniture for extended periods. Choose covers that are breathable and water-resistant to prevent mold and mildew growth.

• Store smart: If you have the space, store your outdoor furniture in a covered area or shed during extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snowstorms, or intense heat. This will protect it from damage and prolong its lifespan. If you don't have a covered storage area, consider using furniture covers and securing them tightly to prevent them from blowing away.

• Clean regularly:

• Timber: Wipe down wooden furniture regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. For tougher stains, use a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the wood.

• Metals: Clean metal furniture with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. If you notice any rust spots, sand them down and touch them up with paint.

• Fabrics: Vacuum fabric cushions and umbrellas regularly to remove dust and dirt. For stains, spot clean with a mild soap and water solution. Follow the care instructions for your specific fabric type.

• Wicker: Clean wicker furniture with a soft brush and a mild soap and water solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.

• Additional Tips:

• Avoid harsh chemicals: When cleaning your outdoor furniture, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the materials.

• Dry thoroughly: After cleaning or exposure to rain, make sure to dry your outdoor furniture thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.

• Inspect regularly: Inspect your outdoor furniture regularly for signs of wear and tear. Tighten any loose screws or bolts and repair any damage as soon as possible.

By following these tips, you can keep your outdoor furniture looking its best and enjoy it for many years to come!

Conclusion

With the right care and a few budget-friendly techniques, your outdoor furniture can stay fresh, comfortable, and inviting for years to come. By cleaning regularly and choosing the right methods for each material, you’ll not only enhance the look of your patio or backyard but also prevent costly replacements down the track. And remember, a little seasonal maintenance and smart storage can go a long way. For more great tips and inspiration, don’t forget to check out our full range of outdoor living projects and cleaning essentials. Happy cleaning!