If you’ve recently invested in outdoor furniture, you want to ensure it lasts. While it is more durable than indoor furniture and meant to withstand outdoor use, it’s not impervious. That’s why we’ve put together this outdoor furniture care guide so you can enjoy your outdoor furnishings for years.

Why Outdoor Furniture Care Matters

As we already touched on, outdoor furniture is made to hold up to outdoor use. But that still doesn’t mean it won’t degrade over time. From hot sun and humidity during the summer to cold and damp conditions during the winter, a variety of weather conditions can take a toll on your outdoor furnishings.

If you’ve purchased high-quality outdoor furniture, you’re going to want to make your investment last by knowing how to properly care for it. This way, you can continue to enjoy spending time in your outdoor spaces for the long term and avoid buying new furniture after just a few years.

Properly maintaining your furnishings is also a sustainable option. By purchasing high-quality, long-lasting products, you're cutting back on personal waste as compared to cheaper alternatives that need replacing after a year or two.

Types of Outdoor Furniture

Before we dive into furniture care and maintenance, let's cover some common types of outdoor furniture.

Wood: Wood is a classic choice for outdoor furniture. Most types of outdoor wood furnishings naturally resist decay and can withstand various weather elements. Sealants can be beneficial for preserving the wood's color and protecting it from wear and tear, but it’ll depend on the type of wood and your personal preference. If left unfinished, the wood will develop a patina over time. Regular cleaning is still necessary to keep it in great condition and looking its best.

Metal: Metal furniture is usually made from aluminum, iron, steel, or other metals. Aluminum is the only rust-resistant metal. To protect against rust and enhance durability, metal furniture is usually finished with clear varnish, paint, or a robust powder coating. Regular cleaning is important to ensure its longevity.

Wicker: Wicker furniture has a timeless appeal and is often made from natural materials like rattan or synthetic materials for added durability. Regular dusting and cleaning are necessary to keep wicker furniture in good condition.

Upholstery: Outdoor furniture upholstery, often referred to as performance fabrics, is specifically engineered to withstand sun damage, stains, and moisture. While more durable than indoor fabrics, they can gather debris, dirt, mildew, tree sap, bird droppings, and other stains from continued outdoor use. They will require cleaning to keep your seating area usable and comfortable.

Essential Outdoor Furniture Care Tips

To keep your outdoor furniture in good condition so you can get the most enjoyment out of it keep reading for our advice below.

Cleaning Your Outdoor Furniture

Regular cleaning is crucial to remove dirt, debris, and stains that can cause damage over time. We’re big proponents of eco-cleaning solutions and use a vinegar and water solution as our primary multi-purpose cleaning products. For stains, you can use a baking soda and water solution. Rember to clean mindfully by always using reusable cloths, brushes, and other cleaning materials to prevent unnecessary waste.

Wood, metal, and wicker furniture can also be cleaned with water and a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip wood of its protective coatings. For metal furniture, you’ll want to be sure it’s dried thoroughly to prevent rust.

Protect Your Outdoor Furniture From Weather

Teak oil is a great natural solution to protect wood furniture. It’ll shield wood from weather damage, termites, and other pests.

Prolonged direct sunlight can cause fading and damage to outdoor furniture. Consider using umbrellas or shades to protect furniture from excessive exposure to the sun. Furniture covers also help prevent fading.

During heavy rain or snow, cover your outdoor furniture with waterproof covers to prevent water damage and mold growth.

If you live in a part of the country that has harsh winters, consider storing your outdoor furniture in a shed or other covered area during the off-season.

Maintain and Repair Your Outdoor Furnishings

Regular maintenance tasks for outdoor furniture may include resealing wood furniture, repainting metal furniture, and inspecting for loose screws and bolts.

Apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant sealant to wood furniture every year to protect it from moisture and UV rays. Lubricate hinges and moving parts on furniture to keep them in good working condition.

If you notice any damage or wear, make sure it’s addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration. For example, if you spot rust on metal furniture, use sandpaper to remove it and apply touch-up paint.

Storage and Seasonal Care for Outdoor Furniture

Proper storage during off-seasons is essential for preserving outdoor furniture. Make sure that your furnishings are clean and dry before storing them. Consider disassembling or folding furniture to save space during storage, and use furniture covers for extra protection. Also, inspect them for any damage and make necessary repairs to ensure they're in good condition when you take them out for the next season.

Taking care of your outdoor furniture is an investment in both its longevity and your enjoyment of your outdoor spaces. By following these care and maintenance tips, you can keep your furniture looking great and functional for many years to come. Remember to tailor the care routine based on your specific furnishings, and when in doubt check with the manufacturer for care and maintenance instructions.

Enjoy your outdoor living spaces to the fullest with well-maintained and beautiful outdoor furniture! Need help transforming your outdoor spaces into a beautiful oasis you want to spend time in? AHG Interiors can help! We’re not just experts in interior design, but in landscaping and garden design as well. Contact us today to learn more.

The AHG Interiors Essential Outdoor Furniture Care and Maintenance Guide