Care of Garden Furniture By Material Type

The method of care that you are willing to take the time to import on your prized collection garden furniture may depend upon which materials are used to make each piece. It also may depend upon other factors, such as if it is UV and all-weather treated or not.

In most cases, maintaining each piece does not demand extensive labor, but it is expected that you be consistent and careful during the process. You'll save quite a bit of money and will enjoy your collection for longer if you do it correctly.

Specific Material Cleaning Tips

Treated Rattan You can wash certain models with a garden hose most of the time, which some people may not believe. This cleaning method works better, however, if each piece is treated with a water resistant coating. The alternative is to place each piece in a bathtub full of warm water.

You should also dust each piece with a brush or vacuum the cushions of it (if any) as often as you can. This will also prevent buildup of dirt in the seams and cracks. Also, if you can move it out of the sun this will help preserve it, but this not always mandatory.

Untreated rattan and wicker tends to dry out very quickly. Therefore, it should be removed from direct sunlight or heat whenever it is not used.

Furthermore, it also needs to be dusted regularly and possibly hosed down. Beware of using too much water on your untreated items, though. Wiping it dry afterwards may be recommended.

To further preserve it you might want to invest in a waterproof cover for it. Otherwise, move it indoors if you think it may rain. Either way will help you preserve your pieces for a longer period.

Metal This often applies to any supporting aluminum, steel, chrome, or other metal used to make each item. The exact procedure varies, but one concept always applies. That is, you need to use the appropriate cleaner or you will ruin it. Seek out specialised cleansers based on the materials of the base, frame, legs, etc.

Wood Tips for cleaning wood are much like cleaning the wicker (rattan). If it is treated it might be hosed. However, if it is untreated use a damp cloth and always polish with the same type of product. For instance, if you are used to using an oil-based product always use that and do not switch to a wax-based product.

Plastic This is usually is easiest to clean. However, it is not always recommended for outdoor garden furniture because it could crack after awhile. Of course the exception is if it is a stronger grade. It can be easily wiped down with a mild soap and water.

Glass This material is cleaned just like you would a window. You can use a paper towel and spray window cleaner or you could use a bucket of vinegar water or ammonia and water and a sponge. In any case it should be dried off with a fibreless paper or cloth immediately.

Additional garden furniture cleaning tips are provided by the manufacturer of the product, most likely. If not please keep this article and others like it handy.