3 Protective Ways To Care For Your Patio Furniture

The sunny seasons are here again, and it’s time to start cleaning out your patio furniture to enjoy a good time outside. Your patio furniture puts up with a lot over time, such as harsh natural elements, moisture build-up, and exposure to the scorching sun— not to mention stains, breaks, and other wear-and-tear factors. All these can shorten your furniture’s lifespan. Purchasing outdoor furniture often wouldn’t be an ideal solution. So, do you want your patio furniture to last you a lifetime? Here are the best ways to care for them. 

1. Check for signs of degradation 

Always keep an eye out for signs of rusting and anything that suggests your patio furniture is degrading. Rust is usually the major problem with metal patio furniture pieces, especially those left at the mercy of the natural elements for too long. If you notice any signs of rust, use steel wool to scrub it off. Then, wipe the area down and cover the exposed metal with a fresh coat of paint. If you have wooden furniture, check for signs of wear and tear and effects of insects, specifically a carpenter ant infestation. However, these insects can be difficult or unsafe to take out on your own, so you should consider getting a professional such as an ant removal service.

If you live in an area with high humidity levels or usually leave your poly outdoor furniture to sit outside when it rains, your furniture will likely develop mold. When that happens, be sure to remove it before using the furniture. Do so wearing gloves and a mask to protect yourself.

2. Clean your furniture regularly

Basic cleaning is one of the most effective ways to care for your patio furniture. Take the time to clean your furniture at least four times every year—once at the beginning of summer, when summer ends, and twice in between. Regular cleaning also makes it easier to identify potential damages and solve them immediately. Also, cleaning your furniture helps make your patio and outdoor space more comfortable. 

For your cleaning to be more effective, you need to use the right cleaning materials. For plastic and metal furniture, water mixed with mild dishwashing detergent can do the trick. Wipe down the furniture surface with your mixture and a damp cloth and rinse. You can repeat it every two weeks. For wood, dust off the surface regularly and re-polish the wood when necessary. Also, be sure to vacuum the canvas cushions and other fabrics regularly. 

3. Invest in patio shades

Shading your patio is a great way to protect your furniture pieces from the harsh effect of the natural elements like sun, rain, and snow. A simple patio shade or awning can help prevent the furniture fabric from fading too quickly. Of course having enclosed outdoor living spaces helps prevent rusts, stains, and various causes of structural decay. If you live in an area prone to strong winds, try anchoring your furniture to keep them grounded.

Caring for your patio furniture should be on your cleaning and maintenance lists. A clean, well-kept patio saves you lots of money and provides your family with a safe and clean outdoor space.