How to Clean Outdoor Furniture: Spring Cleaning Made Easy

Outdoor furniture spring cleaning – did those four words just send anyone else on a wild emotional journey? The joy and excitement of a new, fresh spring on your patio space immediately mixes and clashes with the frustration (and maybe even dread?) of cleaning and restoring your patio furniture to its full beautiful potential. And for those of you who only had positive emotions about that … we don't understand you, but we love you.

However you feel about outdoor furniture spring cleaning, it doesn't have to be traumatic. With some planning, some time-tested tips and tricks, and maybe even some eco-friendly solutions lying around the house, your outdoor space can be ready for blissful lounging on beautiful spring days.

 

 

In today's article, you'll get practical tips and hacks to clean and refresh patio furniture made from different outdoor furniture materials. Polylumber, teak, resin wicker, powder-coated aluminum, and more… I'm covering what you should be thinking about as you prepare for your patio spring cleaning. You'll also find links to more in-depth articles if you need to know more about caring for one of these great patio furniture materials.

 

Quick Reference: Spring Cleaning Solutions by Material

Before diving into detailed instructions, here's a handy reference guide for cleaning solutions based on material type:

Material Type	Basic Cleaning Solution	Tough Stains/Mildew Solution	Avoid Using
HDPE/Plastic	Mild dish soap + water	White vinegar + water solution (1:3 mix)	Undiluted bleach, ammonia
Natural Wood (Teak, Acacia, Ipe)	Mild soap + water	Oxygen bleach solution	Pressure washers, chlorine bleach
Powder-Coated Aluminum	Mild dish soap + water	1:1 white vinegar + water	Alkaline cleaners, TSP
Wrought Iron/Steel	Mild soap + water	White vinegar (for rust spots)	Bleach
Sling/Mesh Fabric	Mild soap + water	Diluted bleach (if fabric allows)	Pressure washers, harsh scrubbers
Rope Furniture	Mild detergent + water	Vinegar + Borax solution	Abrasive cleaners, pressure washers

 

Looking for more comprehensive year-round care advice? check out our Comprehensive Year-Round Patio Furniture Care Guide.

 

 

Outdoor Furniture Spring Cleaning Checklist:

Before we get into our "how to clean outdoor furniture" spring checklist, you may be asking yourself, "Self, does my patio furniture REALLY NEED spring cleaning?" Short answer: yes. If you invested in high-quality patio furniture materials, its already pretty weather-resistant. But it's still enduring the effects of humans, pets, pests, sun, and weather. Every single day. Every single month.

So, if you want to keep your patio furniture looking great and lasting for years, just to start with this simple spring cleaning checklist.

• [ ] Clear debris (leaves, twigs, dirt) from furniture and surrounding area
• [ ] Check all pieces for damage that needs repair
• [ ] Prepare appropriate cleaning solutions for each material type
• [ ] Clean each piece thoroughly according to material recommendations
• [ ] Apply protective treatments where appropriate (oils, waxes, sealants)
• [ ] Check and tighten any loose hardware
• [ ] Touch up any paint chips or scratches
• [ ] Clean and prep cushions and pillows
• [ ] Rearrange your outdoor space for the new season

 

And if you're looking for a more detailed guide to spring cleaning for your whole backyard, we gotcha!

Now let's get those hands dirty – and those beautiful polylumber Adirondacks clean!

 

 

Cleaning HDPE and Recycled Plastic Furniture

First, let's take a look at all those wonderfully-durable patio pieces made from recycled HDPE. This includes modern polylumber sofas and seriously-relaxed resin wicker chat sets. Yes, recycled HDPE furniture is made to be super resilient, but it still needs some love as spring kicks off.

Basic Plastic Spring Cleaning

1. Start with a good rinse using your garden hose to remove loose debris
2. Mix mild dish soap with warm water (about 1 tablespoon per gallon)
3. Wipe down the furniture with a soft cloth or sponge
4. For textured surfaces or wicker, use a soft-bristle brush to get into crevices
5. Rinse thoroughly and let air dry

For resin wicker, I like to spray it with the hose every few weeks during the season. You'd be surprised how much dust and pollen can collect in those little weaves!

Tackling Stubborn Stains

For mildew or tough stains, white vinegar is your best friend. Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water and apply directly to the problem areas. Let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Rinse well afterward.

Pro Tip: Automotive Wax for Protection

Want to keep your plastic furniture looking fresh all season? Some people like to apply a thin coat of automotive paste wax after cleaning. This helps repel water and dirt, making future cleanings much easier. As always, I'd recommend checking the label for its ingredients. Some of these waxes contain chemicals or other materials you don't necessarily want to rub off on your bare skin. But you can find options made from natural ingredients.

 

 

Premium Natural Wood Furniture: Teak, Acacia, & Ipe

There's something special about high-quality wooden patio furniture, isn't there? It just adds some warmth and natural beauty to your outdoor living experience. Unfortunately, natural wood requires some specific care to keep it looking its best.

Spring Cleaning Basics for Natural Wood

1. Brush off loose debris or vacuum crevices
2. Make a solution of mild soap and warm water
3. Gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush in the direction of the wood grain
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
5. Dry with a cloth to prevent water spots

Teak Patio Furniture: To Gray Or Not To Gray?

Those natural oils that make teak so wonderfully resilient to outdoor life have an interesting effect over time. As they evaporate, the teak's surface hardens as it becomes this beautiful silvery-gray color. Which means you have a choice: maintain your teak's original honey color or let it age naturally into silver. Both looks are beautiful, but they require different approaches.

To preserve original color:	To allow graceful aging:
Clean thoroughly When dry, apply a protectant or sealant annually* Consider a UV-protective sealer	Simply clean as needed No oils or sealers necessary The patina will develop naturally over 6-12 months

*Is teak protectant the same as teak oil? Simply put, no it isn't. And we don't recommend using just teak oil for outdoor furniture. It works great for indoor pieces, but doesn't really stand up to the rigors of constant sun, rain, and seasonal exposure. If you want to keep teak golden, use a teak protectant.

For a full, in-depth teak patio furniture care guide, go here: Seasonal Care Tips for Teak Outdoor Furniture.

Dealing with Mildew

For mildew on wood (those little black spots), use oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach). Mix according to package directions, apply to the affected areas, and scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely. Make sure to wear gloves. Don't mess around with mildew.

If you're interested in restoring an older teak piece, our article on How to Refinish a Teak Dining Table Like a Pro provides step-by-step instructions.

 

 

Spring Cleaning For Powder-Coated Aluminum

Powder-coated aluminum outdoor furniture is great! It's lightweight, durable, and doesn't rust—making it a popular choice for outdoor settings. The powder-coated finish gives it color and additional protection, but it still needs regular cleaning over the seasons.

Basic Spring Cleaning for Aluminum Furniture

1. Wipe down with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth
2. Pay attention to joints and crevices where dirt accumulates
3. Rinse completely to remove soap residue
4. Dry with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots

What If You See Oxidation?

Are you noticing a chalky white film on your aluminum furniture? That's oxidation. But don't panic. Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then wipe down the affected areas. This simple solution should dissolve that chalky stuff.

Protective Waxing

After cleaning, consider applying a coat of automotive wax to protect the finish. This creates a barrier against the elements and makes future cleaning easier. I do this twice a year—once during spring cleaning and again in mid-summer—and it keeps my aluminum set looking showroom-new.

 

 

Wrought Iron and Steel Furniture Spring Cleaning Tips

Wrought iron patio furniture has that classic, timeless look. It also has a nemesis: rust. Rust is generally hard to remove or deal with, so the key to maintaining these patio pieces is preventing moisture from compromising the protective finish.

Basic Spring Cleaning Tips

1. Wipe down with a solution of mild dish soap and water
2. Use a soft cloth or brush for detailed areas
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Dry completely with towels (important to prevent rust!)

Wrought Iron Rust Prevention & Treatment

While you're spring cleaning, look closely for any chips in the paint or signs of rust. If you can catch these little chips early, it's way better for your furniture!

For small rust spots:

1. Sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper
2. Wipe clean with mineral spirits
3. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer
4. Finish with outdoor metal paint in a matching color

Rust can develop shockingly quickly. So if take care of those little spots quickly. One week of heavy rain can cause a nightmare.

Double-Wax Protection

For extra protection, apply two coats of automotive wax after cleaning. This provides superior moisture resistance and extends the time between maintenance. And again, check the ingredients of any automotive wax before you buy. Natural ingredients are always better for your skin.

 

 

Sling and Mesh Furniture - Spring Cleaning Tips

That comfortable and quick-drying fabric of sling outdoor furniture looks and feels great. But it also needs some special attention during spring cleaning.

Basic Cleaning

1. Brush off loose debris
2. Clean with mild soap and warm water
3. Use a soft brush to work the solution into the fabric
4. Rinse thoroughly from both sides if possible
5. Allow to air dry completely

Mildew Removal

For those dark mildew spots (common after winter storage), check the manufacturer's recommendations first and follow any applicable instructions. But also, most sling fabrics can handle a mild bleach solution. Just mix: 1 cup of bleach, 1/4 cup of mild soap, and 1 gallon of water.

Apply to the affected areas, let sit for 15 minutes, scrub gently, then rinse very thoroughly.

If you're hesitant to use bleach, white vinegar is a good alternative. Spray full-strength on the mildew, let sit for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

When your sling fabric is beyond cleaning, you might be surprised to learn you can replace just the fabric instead of buying new furniture. Our guide on DIY Sling Replacement walks you through the process.

 

 

Cleaning Rope Patio Furniture

Rope patio furniture has become incredibly popular in recent years, with its modern, textural look. The synthetic ropes are durable, but they can trap dirt between the fibers.

Basic Cleaning

1. Brush off loose debris with a soft brush
2. Mix mild detergent with lukewarm water
3. Soak the rope surfaces with a soft sponge
4. For tight weaves, gently scrub along the length of the ropes
5. Rinse thoroughly and air dry

Deep Cleaning

For more stubborn grime or mildew on rope furniture, try this cleaning solution:

• 4 teaspoons bleach
• 1 teaspoon mild detergent
• 1 cup water

Spray on affected areas, let sit for 15 minutes, scrub gently, and rinse multiple times to remove all bleach residue.

 

 

Eco-Friendly Outdoor Furniture Cleaning Solutions

Many folks want to have beautifully-maintained patio furniture, but also prefer to avoid harsh chemicals. Well, all of those folks are in luck! Here are some effective, environmentally friendly alternatives – many of which can be found around your house already:

All-Purpose Cleaner:	Rust Remover:
- 1 part white vinegar - 3 parts water - Few drops of mild dish soap	- Lemon juice + salt paste - Apply to rust spots, let sit, then scrub
Mildew Treatment:	Wood Brightener:
- White vinegar (undiluted) - OR baking soda paste (baking soda + small amount of water)	- Equal parts vinegar and olive oil - Cleans and conditions in one step

These natural solutions work wonderfully most of the time and are safer for your family, pets, and the environment. If you haven't tried any homemade cleaning solutions, I recommend you give it a go. I've found the vinegar mix works just as well as store-bought cleaners in most cases.

 

Getting Your Outdoor Space Ready for Spring

While you're cleaning your furniture, it's the perfect time to think about refreshing your entire outdoor space! For inspiration, check out our articles on 15 Stunning Outdoor Decor Ideas for Spring and Beautiful Spring Outdoor Design Ideas.

Don't forget to prepare your yard and garden areas too! Our guide on How to Get Your Backyard Ready for Spring Time Fun covers everything you need to know.

 

 

Outdoor Furniture Spring Cleaning Final Tips & Tricks

Before wrapping up, here are a few more pro tips the Patio Productions team has picked up over the years. Work smarter, not harder, right?

1. Clean on a cloudy day - Direct sun can cause cleaning solutions to dry too quickly and leave streaks
2. Work from top to bottom - This prevents having to re-clean areas
3. Test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous spot first
4. Take photos before disassembling anything for deep cleaning
5. Apply protective treatments annually - Your furniture will last years longer
6. Invest in quality covers for furniture you don't use year-round

Find the right patio furniture cover to protect your furniture:

 

 

Wrapping Up

Beautiful, sparkling-clean outdoor furniture is within reach. With these tips and tricks, you can do it! Spring is a time to enjoy your outdoor space, and a little spring cleaning can take your space to the next level. And just remember the small stuff—like quick rinses after rainstorms or wiping up spills promptly—it'll make outdoor furniture spring cleaning that much easier.

When the furniture's clean and the space is all arranged, all that's left is to pour your favorite beverage, invite your favorite people over, sit back, and soak in the spring bliss.

And if you take a good, hard look at your current patio furniture and decide you're really ready for some new stuff? Hey, no judgement. Find your next set of luxury patio furniture and accessories at PatioProductions.com – ready to help make your spring perfect!

 

 

Article Research Sources

• Martha Stewart, “How to Clean and Care for Outdoor Furniture” – Detailed guide covering cleaning methods for wood, wicker, metal, etc. (How to Clean and Care for Outdoor Furniture
• Better Homes & Gardens, “How to Clean Outdoor Furniture for a Seasonal Refresh” – Tips on homemade cleaning solutions (baking soda, vinegar) for plastic and metal furniture, and protection advice (How to Clean Outdoor Furniture for a Seasonal Refresh).
• Bob Vila, “How to Clean All Types of Furniture: The Definitive Guide” – Includes advice on preventing mold on outdoor wicker with vinegar wipes (How to Clean All Types of Furniture: The Definitive Guide - Bob Vila).
• Architectural Digest, “How to Remove Rust From Metal Surfaces” – Expert hacks for rust removal using lemon and salt, baking soda, etc., which are applicable to patio furniture (How to Remove Rust From Metal Surfaces—From Garden Tools to Vintage Finds | Architectural Digest).
• Garden Patch, “How To Clean Textilene Garden Furniture” – Practical do’s and don’ts for sling (textilene) fabric maintenance, like avoiding pressure washers and keeping fabric out of harsh elements (How To Clean Textilene Garden Furniture - Garden Patch).
• Fresh Design Blog, “DIY Pressure Washing for Your Outdoor Furniture” – Guidance on safe pressure washing techniques and PSI limits for various materials (with cautions for wood and delicate parts) (DIY Pressure Washing for Your Outdoor Furniture: Tips and Techniques ~ Fresh Design Blog).