Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space: The Complete Garden Furniture Cleaning Guide

As the sun begins to shine and warmer days roll in, there’s no better time to give your outdoor space a little TLC, starting with your outdoor furniture. If you’re wondering how to clean and revive your garden furniture after a long winter, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re freshening up wooden benches, plastic chairs, or garden cushions, we have affordable tools and outdoor cleaning products to help you get the job done without breaking the bank.

Let’s dive into simple, budget-friendly tips to get everything looking clean, fresh, and ready for summer.

Know Your Garden Furniture: Cleaning Starts with the Right Approach

Before you start cleaning, it’s important to know what material your garden furniture is made from - each material requires a different approach, and using the wrong method could cause damage when cleaning your garden furniture.

Plastic furniture is generally easy to maintain, but it can scratch if scrubbed too harshly. Wooden pieces need a gentler touch to protect their natural finish and should be cleaned with care to avoid stripping the surface. Rattan and metal furniture each have their own cleaning needs, too, depending on whether they're natural or synthetic, painted or uncoated.

Understanding your furniture’s material is the first step to cleaning it properly and extending its life outdoors. Let’s take a closer look at the best ways to clean garden furniture.

Plastic Patio Furniture: Simple Tips for a Fresh, Clean Look

Plastic patio furniture is a popular choice for many gardens, with its durability and low-maintenance appeal. For everyday cleaning, all you need is warm, soapy water and a soft sponge to wipe away dirt, grime, and stains during the summer months. Be sure to get into crevices where dirt tends to gather.

For tougher marks, try a gentle solution like Astonish White Vinegar Cleaner when cleaning plastic patio furniture. Its natural acidic properties make it ideal for cleaning plastic garden furniture, cutting through dirt and grime with ease. It also acts as a natural disinfectant, helping to remove bacteria and mildew build-up without relying on harsh chemicals that discolour plastic garden furniture. 

Wooden Garden Furniture: How to Safely Restore Its Natural Beauty

Wooden garden furniture adds a timeless, natural charm to any outdoor space, but it does require extra care. Start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush. Then, using warm soapy water and a sponge, gently scrub the surface, following the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the finish. Rinse thoroughly with water and allow the furniture to dry completely in the sun. Avoid over-soaking the wood, as excess moisture can result in the wood warping or mildew growing. 

For a deeper clean or to revive weathered pieces, consider applying a wood cleaner or treatment. It helps nourish the wood, enhances its natural tone, and offers added protection against the elements, keeping your furniture looking beautiful for seasons to come.

Garden Cushions: How to Keep Them Fresh and Comfortable All Season

Garden cushions are an essential part of outdoor furniture, but can quickly become dirty or worn out if not cared for properly. Start by removing the cushions from your furniture (if possible) and shaking them out to remove any loose debris. Many cushions have removable covers, which can often be machine-washed. For those without removable covers, you can clean the cushions by scrubbing them gently with a sponge soaked in soapy water.

If you're dealing with stubborn stains, products like the Astonish Oxy Active Fabric Stain Remover will make a big difference. After washing, allow your cushions to air dry completely before putting them back on. To keep cushions fresh, consider using an outdoor storage box to protect them when not in use.

Rattan Garden Furniture: Expert Tips for Gentle Cleaning

Rattan furniture is stylish and durable, but it requires special care to maintain its appearance. Cleaning rattan garden furniture involves brushing away dirt with a soft brush and using a damp cloth to wipe down the surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaking the furniture, as this can damage the rattan material.

For an extra boost of cleanliness, you can use a diluted solution of mild dish soap and water to gently scrub the rattan. If you’re cleaning plastic rattan, make sure to clean every nook and cranny to prevent dirt buildup. Lastly, dry your furniture thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent moisture from seeping into the rattan design.

Top Tip – Don’t Forget to Clean the Garden Furniture Legs

When freshening up your garden furniture, don’t forget the legs and undersides - these overlooked areas often collect the most dirt. Start with warm, soapy water and a sponge, or for more stubborn grime, try Elbow Grease Original Degreaser - it’s ideal for lifting grease and dirt from plastic and metal frames without harsh scrubbing. For wooden furniture, use a damp cloth to avoid damaging the surface. While you’re there, check for rust, cracks or wobbly fittings that could use a quick fix. Once cleaned, dry thoroughly to prevent moisture build-up. A little extra care goes a long way.

If you're cleaning garden cushions or patio furniture, we have everything from cleaning supplies to storage solutions to make your gardening life a whole lot easier. Ready to get started on your garden makeover? Head over to Poundland's garden section, available online and in-store, for more affordable cleaning solutions and outdoor essentials.