How to Clean Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture gets hammered. Sun, rain, pollen, tree sap, bird droppings, and the general grime of being outside all add up. The cushions fade, the frames get dirty, and suddenly your patio set looks ten years older than it is. A proper cleaning brings it back and extends its life.

Why This Matters

Outdoor furniture is an investment. A decent patio set can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Without maintenance:

• Materials degrade – Sun and moisture break down finishes and fabrics
• Mold and mildew grow – On cushions and in crevices
• Metal corrodes – Rust starts and spreads
• Wood warps and rots – Without proper sealing
• Fabric fades – UV damage is permanent
• Stains set – Bird droppings and sap become permanent

Regular cleaning protects that investment and keeps your outdoor space looking the way it should.

Cleaning by Material

Plastic and Resin

The easiest to maintain:

1. Rinse with garden hose
2. Wash with warm water and mild dish soap
3. Scrub with soft bristle brush
4. For stubborn stains or mildew, add bleach to the water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water)
5. Rinse thoroughly
6. Let dry completely before using or covering

Tip: Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface and make future cleaning harder.

Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron)

1. Rinse with hose
2. Wash with soapy water and soft cloth or brush
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Check for rust spots – Sand lightly and apply touch-up paint or rust converter
5. For aluminum, a coat of car wax adds protection
6. Dry completely

Tip: Steel and wrought iron need more attention to rust. Inspect annually and address spots immediately.

Wood (Teak, Cedar, Eucalyptus)

Wood requires more care:

1. Rinse with hose
2. Clean with wood-specific cleaner or mild soap
3. Use a soft brush—avoid steel wool
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Let dry completely (this can take 24-48 hours)
6. Apply sealer or oil – Teak oil, deck sealer, or outdoor furniture finish
7. Reapply sealer annually or when water stops beading

Tip: Teak naturally turns silver-gray if not oiled. This is cosmetic—some people prefer the weathered look.

Wicker and Rattan

Natural wicker needs protection from moisture:

1. Vacuum to remove dust from crevices
2. Wipe with barely damp cloth
3. Don’t soak—water damages natural wicker
4. For synthetic (resin) wicker, you can use more water and soap
5. Let dry completely
6. Apply protective spray if recommended by manufacturer

Fabric Cushions and Slings

Check the care label first—manufacturers’ instructions rule:

1. Remove loose dirt with vacuum or brush
2. For washable fabrics, spot clean or hand wash
3. For removable covers, machine wash on gentle if allowed
4. For attached cushions, use upholstery cleaner or mild soap
5. For mold/mildew: Use a solution of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon water (test for colorfastness first)
6. Rinse thoroughly
7. Dry completely – This is critical; mold loves damp cushions
8. Store dry or cover when not in use

Tip: Never store damp cushions—they’ll mold before next season.

The Twice-Yearly Routine

Spring (Before Use)

1. Uncover or retrieve furniture from storage
2. Inspect for damage—cracks, rust, tears
3. Clean thoroughly following material-specific instructions
4. Apply protectants—oil, wax, or sealant as needed
5. Fluff and arrange cushions
6. Repair or replace damaged pieces

Fall (Before Storage)

1. Clean everything thoroughly
2. Let dry completely—this can’t be overstated
3. Apply protective treatments
4. Cover or move to covered storage
5. Store cushions in a dry place
6. Don’t stack items that might trap moisture

Storage and Protection

• Use covers – Quality covers extend furniture life significantly
• Store cushions separately – In a dry, ventilated space
• Elevate off the ground – If storing outside, keep off concrete to prevent moisture wicking
• Don’t wrap in plastic – Traps moisture and promotes mold
• Choose breathable covers – Allow air circulation while blocking debris

DIY vs. Call a Pro

DIY: All routine cleaning, minor repairs, applying protectants.

Call a pro: Major refinishing, rust remediation, frame repair, reupholstering cushions, or if you lack the time/tools. Find a handyman →

How Often to Clean

• Major cleaning: Twice yearly (spring and fall)
• Spot cleaning: As needed throughout the season
• Cushion maintenance: Check for mold monthly
• Protective treatments: Annually

The Bottom Line

Outdoor furniture takes a beating and still keeps performing. Give it an hour of attention in spring and fall, and it’ll look good for years. Skip the maintenance, and you’ll be shopping for replacements much sooner than you planned.