Simple But Important Tips for Caring for Outdoor Furniture
Quality outdoor furniture should last for many years if not decades, but note that how you care for those pieces will often affect their overall longevity. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect their outdoor furniture until they see that it's overly dirty, worn, or otherwise damaged, and they may then need to replace the pieces altogether. Note a few simple but important tips when it comes to caring for outdoor furniture so yours lasts as long as possible.
Oiling wood furniture
After stepping out of the shower, does your skin feel dry and a bit tight, or even downright scaly? This is because water and even the gentlest of soaps will strip away skin's natural oils. This happens when you clean wood furniture; even if you use a very mild detergent, the water and the cleanser will strip some of wood's natural oils so that it may become more dry and brittle over time. This can increase the risk of cracking, chips, and other such damage. It's good to add some wood oil that is meant for your furniture in particular; that may mean a different oil for teak, oak, pine, and the like. Do this after any cleaning so that the wood stays soft and protected, and to help bring out its natural grain and finish.
Pressure washing
Wiping down your outdoor furniture is often good for removing surface dust and the like, but it can also be good to use your home's pressure washer or a garden hose, with just very light pressure, to clean out those small cracks and crevices you may miss with a wash rag. This can also remove any mold and mildew that may be forming in those areas but which you simply cannot see. Be sure you use very gentle pressure on any wood furniture so you don't crack it, but do this every year or as recommended by your furniture's manufacturer so your furniture gets a thorough cleaning in all areas.
Cushions
Cleaning your outdoor furniture may do no good if you don't clean the cushions as well, since these can hold mold, mildew, bacteria, and also moisture; even if they're weather resistant, they can get tears and stains or the fabric may simply become weaker over time. Wash your cushions as often as directed by the manufacturer and be sure you wipe them down after a storm or any time they may be holding more dirt and grime against the surface of your outdoor furniture. It can even be good to hang them from a clothesline on occasion, so they can air out and stay fresh and clean.
For more information, contact The Teak Place or a similar company.
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