Spring Cleaning Checklist: Prep Your Patio Furniture and Accessories

Many of us are cozily cocooned inside our homes during winter, but the urge to get outside takes hold when springtime rolls around. It’s the season of renewal—the perfect time to dust off the winter doldrums and refresh your outdoor spaces.

Here's a handy outdoor spring cleaning checklist to help you keep your patio furniture and accessories primed for the season. From easy cleaning how-tos to preventative maintenance, we've got you covered.

Before you start cleaning, we recommend completing the following tasks:

• Check the warranty and care instructions for any items you own, and follow the suggested cleaning methods.
• When working with harsh chemicals and pressure washers, always wear goggles, gloves, a facemask, boots, and ear protection.*
• Block off your work area so curious kids and pets can't wander in by mistake.

*NOTE: Some of the cleaning methods below include bleach. If you prefer a natural alternative, we recommend undistilled white vinegar.

PRO TIP: 
Apply a protective coating to all surfaces, or use weatherproof covers to ensure your furniture stays safe when left out in the elements.

Accessories

• Remove dust and dirt.
• Clean up stains, mold, and mildew.
• Fix fabric tears as soon as you see them.

PRO TIP: 
Spray outdoor cushions and umbrellas with a fabric protectant that repels water, stains, and mildew.

Here's our advice for keeping your lounge furniture clean and prepped for springtime entertaining.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Fill a bucket or spray bottle with a solution of ⅓ water and ⅔ unscented liquid bleach.

Step 2: Wipe the solution onto the lumber with a clean cloth or apply directly using the spray bottle and let it sit for a few minutes.

Step 3: Scrub off any debris with a soft-bristle brush.

Step 4: Wipe the lumber clean with a damp cloth and let it air-dry.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Spot test a mild solvent, such as mineral spirits, to ensure it won’t stain or damage the aluminum.

Step 2: If the solvent works safely, apply it to stains with a soft cloth or sponge.

Step 3: Gently scrub all surfaces of the aluminum.

Step 4: Rinse your furniture with clean water and let it air-dry.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Take off any cushions and sweep away debris using a dry vacuum fitted with a brush attachment.

Step 2: Gently scrub the wicker’s surfaces with soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Use a toothbrush to get hard-to-reach spots.

Step 3: Rinse your furniture and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth, then allow it to fully air-dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Mix powdered oxygen bleach with water according to the product’s instructions and apply it to the furniture's surfaces with a soft-bristle brush.
Step 2: Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. Scrub gently where needed before rinsing with clean water.
Step 3: Allow your furniture to air-dry completely before use.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Follow The Quick Clean method shown above.
Step 2: Remove rust, chipped paint, and stains with sandpaper or a wire brush. Repeat as needed on stubborn areas.
Step 3: Apply an even coat of touch-up paint to the impacted areas.
Step 4: Let the paint cure completely before using your furniture.

Removing White Film

When left in the sun too long, injection-molded plastic chairs can develop a chalky, white film. This dusty residue is the result of UV rays breaking down plastic. Follow these steps to restore the finish.

Step 1: Mix water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to all furniture surfaces.
Step 2: Let the solution sit for about 20 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Step 3: Scrub grime with a vinegar-soaked cloth and rinse again.
Step 4: Pour baking soda onto a damp sponge and scour your furniture, repeating as needed.
Step 5:  Rinse with clean water and let your furniture air-dry. 

Source: Hunker.com

Extend the lives of your outdoor pillows, cushions, and umbrellas with these easy cleaning tips.

The Spring Clean

Step 1: Pour a bit of Borax and mild dish soap into a spray bottle filled with warm water.
Step 2: Spray the solution directly onto the fabric and let it soak for a few minutes.
Step 3: Scrub the solution in with a clean cloth or soft-bristle brush.
Step 4: Let it stand for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Step 5: Dry the cushions on their sides with the zippers facing down.

Spring Clean Detachable Fabrics

Step 1: Remove the umbrella fabric from the frame and shake off loose debris.
Step 2: Rub liquid detergent directly on stains.
Step 3: Let it soak for 10–15 minutes, then scrub the fabric with a soft-bristle brush.
Step 4: Rinse with clean water.
Step 5: In a bucket, blend equal parts water and white vinegar with a small amount of dish soap.
Step 6: Using a soft-bristle brush, scrub the solution into both sides of the fabric, the umbrella shaft, and its base.
Step 7: Let it soak in for 10 minutes, then rinse everything with clean water.
Step 8: Spread the canopy out on a tarp and let it air-dry overnight.
Step 9: Reattach the fabric to the frame once it's completely dry.

Here are our tips for keeping your outdoor furniture in excellent condition for years to come.

Aluminum and Wrought Iron

• Use touch-up paint on aluminum and wrought iron to cover any chips or scratches in the finish.
• Prevent water buildup inside aluminum frames by periodically removing the foot caps.
• Apply mineral oil or baby oil to textured aluminum finishes to repel dirt and debris.
• Spread a thin, even coat of fine car wax on non-textured aluminum and wrought iron to maintain its appearance.

Natural Wicker

• Keep wicker dry. Moisture can weaken the fibers, leading to breakage.
• Style furniture in a covered space, like a gazebo, to prevent cracking or fading from sun exposure.
• Condition wicker fibers with lemon oil a few times a year for added protection.

Wood

• To avoid scratches and damage, use even pressure and move with the grain when sanding or scrubbing wooden furniture.
• Clean sunscreen and bird droppings right away so they don’t cause permanent stains and damage.
• Reapply sealant, paint, and stain every few years to protect your pieces.

Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and your property while cleaning.