Why Clean Your Garden Furniture?
Gardeners often overlook the importance of cleaning their garden furniture. However, it’s a crucial task that can make a significant difference in the overall appearance and longevity of your garden furniture. As you pull out your garden furniture, cushions, and umbrellas, take a moment to give your garden furniture a good clean. Algae, dirt, grime, rust, and mould can leave stubborn stains on wooden, metal, and plastic garden furniture. If left unchecked, these stains can lead to the deterioration of your furniture, making it look old and worn out.
Expert Advice on Cleaning Garden Furniture
Luke Dejahang, a gardening expert and director at Crown Pavilions, suggests using a simple solution of washing-up liquid and warm water. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring the furniture is completely dry, especially if you’re planning to add primer and paint once the cleaning process is finished.
“For plastic furniture, you can add baking soda to warm water to create a gentle abrasive mixture, great for removing tough stains.”
Jimmy Englezos, senior brand manager at Ronseal, agrees that cleaning and maintaining garden furniture is essential to keeping it in good condition throughout the year. He suggests that if you’ve spent money on high-quality furniture, you’ll want to get the most out of it by cleaning it regularly.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
When it comes to cleaning garden furniture, there are several methods you can use, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some options to consider:
- Detergent and warm water: A simple and effective method for cleaning wooden furniture.
- Garden furniture cleaners: Specially formulated to remove dirt buildup, moss, and algae.
- Vinegar and baking soda: A natural and organic cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces.
However, there’s one method that should be avoided: using a pressure washer. While it may seem like a quick and efficient way to clean garden furniture, it can damage the wood and strip away protective coatings, leaving the furniture vulnerable to rain and rot.
