Is it just me? Or is it possible that an outdoor daybed is the absolute best piece of furniture you could add to your backyard for maximum chill? Relaxing? Check. Luxurious? Double check. There’s no such thing as too much time spent lounging on those plush pillows, soaking up the sun and sipping a refreshing beverage, am I right? But as a passionate daybed owner (and avid outdoor napper), I can guarantee these babies don’t maintain themselves. Trust me, I learned that the hard way!
The High-Level Takeaways:
- Choose weather-resistant materials like aluminum, teak, and synthetic wicker for durability
- Clean the frame regularly with mild soap and water, scrubbing with a soft brush
- Wash cushion covers and apply fabric protector spray for stain and UV resistance
- Protect your daybed with waterproof covers when not in use
- Allow to dry completely before storing to prevent mold and mildew
When I first got my teak wood daybed, I was so excited to plop it down on my patio. Boom! Instant designer centerpiece. I spent hours out there reading, napping, and just enjoying the outdoors. But after a few months, I started noticing that my daybed’s pristine wood looking a bit weathered. The cushions were getting dirty and stained. Rookie mistake – I hadn’t really learned to protect and maintain it!
If I wanted my daybed to last for years to come and keep that showroom shine, it needed a little planning and elbow grease. So I did my research, talked to some outdoor furniture pros, and through some trial and error (including an unfortunate incident with a pressure washer… don’t ask), I’ve mastered the art of outdoor daybed maintenance. And now, I’m sharing all my hard-earned secrets with you, so you can feel confident that the daybed you spend all this time shopping for will last for years to come!
Choosing Materials That Can Weather the Storm
When shopping for an outdoor daybed, it’s important to opt for materials that are built to withstand the elements. Woods like teak and cedar are naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. Metals such as aluminum and steel are also great choices, especially if they have a powder-coated finish to prevent rusting. And synthetic wicker made from polyethylene is incredibly durable and easy to clean.
I’ve talked to a few customers who tried to save a few bucks by getting a daybed with a cheaper wood frame. I can’t blame them. But after the rainy season, they said it started warping and cracking. Lesson learned – investing in high-quality, weather-resistant materials pays off in the long run!
Safeguarding Your Daybed from Sun, Rain, and More
Outdoor daybeds receive a lot of exposure to the elements, so it’s crucial to provide some protection. When not using your daybed, cover it with a waterproof furniture cover to shield it from rain, dirt, and debris. For added sun protection, consider placing your daybed in a shaded area or using a patio umbrella. Or even consider looking into a covered daybed. It won’t protect itself completely, but it’s a step in the right direction.
If you live in a place with surprise storms – and who doesn’t – it’s all too easy for a surprise rainstorm rolled in while you’re away from the house. And if you haven’t covered that bad boy, it would be a real shame to come back to find the cushions soaked through and covered in leaves. That’s a cleaning and drying nightmare you don’t want to live through. Always make sure to cover it up before heading out!
Giving Your Daybed a Spa Day
Just like us, outdoor daybeds need a little pampering now and then to look their best. To clean the frame, mix up a solution of mild dish soap and warm water, and use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub away dirt and grime. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose and allow to air dry completely.
For cushions and fabric, start by vacuuming or brushing off loose debris. Spot clean any stains with a mild soap solution, then wash removable covers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To keep fabrics looking fresh and vibrant, apply a UV-resistant fabric protector spray.
If you’re looking to dig a little deeper into this whole “how do I keep my outdoor furniture looking really clean?” thing, here’s a more in-depth blog for you. But the steps above are the important highlights.
Trust me, regular cleaning makes a world of difference. My daybed looks practically brand new after its spa days!
Don’t Let Mold and Mildew Crash the Party
Outdoor furniture is prone to developing mold and mildew, especially in humid climates. To prevent this, make sure your daybed can dry out completely after rain or cleaning. Improve air circulation by keeping it away from walls or dense foliage.
If you do notice any mold or mildew starting to form, tackle it right away. Mix up a solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water, apply it to the affected areas, and scrub with a brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry in the sun.
I once neglected a small mildew spot on my daybed cushions, thinking it wasn’t a big deal. Fast forward a month, and half the cushion was covered in a gross, black fuzz. Let’s jot that down as another lesson learned the hard way!
Stowing Away for Winter Hibernation
If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s best to store your outdoor daybed indoors during the off-season. Give it a thorough cleaning, allow to dry completely, then keep it in a dry, well-ventilated space like a garage or storage room. If you don’t have indoor storage space, a heavy-duty waterproof cover can provide protection from snow and ice.
Don’t make the mistake of leaving it outside uncovered. By spring, you could very easily find the frame all cracked and the cushions a moldy mess. If you’re going to invest in one of these daybeds for your backyard, protect it!
Learn from my foolishness. Please. I’ll feel better knowing your outdoor daybed is in good hands, and you can feel great knowing your cozy patio investment will be ready for your max-relax for seasons to come.
If all this talk of rest, relaxation, and outdoor daybed napping has created a few more questions, feel free to reach out to my good friends at Patio Productions. They definitely know their stuff, as well as how to help you choose and accessorize the right daybed for whatever outdoor space you have in mind.
So go ahead, kick back, and enjoy that little slice of paradise right outside your door – you’ve earned it!
Eben Jol is a creative media specialist with over 9 years of experience creating helpful content for outdoor brands. In that time he has learned the ins and outs of the outdoor industry and has a keen understanding of what topics customers and information seekers need to know when they are planning and furnishing their outdoor space. He has gathered data and reported on industry insights for organizations such as the ICFA, and in his spare time, loves relaxing in his own backyard (and the great outdoors at large) with his wife and 3 kids.
