Summer is in full swing, and you’ve probably taken out your plastic furniture to enjoy on your back patio or deck. You might think just wiping the grime off of it is all you need to do to keep it looking its best and ensure it lasts, but there’s a bit more to know about cleaning and maintenance for outdoor plastic furniture.
Read on to find out how to clean your outdoor plastic furniture so it serves you well for years to come.
Basic cleaning
Any furniture that’s been kept in storage and out of use is going to need a good cleaning before it’s fully ready to be returned to service. Start by hosing down the plastic furniture, then use a mild cleanser, which will be a good fit for any color plastic as well as hard resin furniture. One good choice is car-washing soap, which can be found at any auto parts store. You want to avoid using any harsher cleaning materials that have bleach, as these can result in stains to your furniture (not to mention your clothing during the cleaning process).
Treating stains
If the plastic furniture is stained, there are a few things you can do. Try a bit of baking soda on a wet sponge or cloth. This should create some abrasion that will pull away the stain without scratching the furniture’s surface. You can also try a rag dampened with white vinegar. Again, avoid using heavy-duty cleaners or anything else that could scratch the piece.
If you want to know how to clean your outdoor plastic furniture so that it shines, then utilize an automotive polish or wax. This will have the added benefit of providing some protection from bad weather.
Protecting plastic furniture
Inclement weather can wreak havoc on your outdoor furniture. You want to keep the furniture stored out of direct sunlight, as the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause fading. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance for outdoor plastic furniture, it’s also a wise move to wipe down and inspect the pieces regularly. This will reduce the chance of stains setting in.
During the months of the year when you aren’t using outdoor furniture, you should store the pieces indoors. A shed is ideal, but if you don’t have one, placing the furniture under a deck offers some protection. If this isn’t possible, you may want to look into purchasing weatherproof furniture that can sit on your patio all year long. You can also buy outdoor coverings for your furniture, which will provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.
When you’re looking for excellent service, price and selection, check out Orangeburg Furniture Exchange. We’ve been the leading furniture store in the region for nearly 75 years, bringing local-area customers furniture for every room of the house. Our great selection and excellent customer service have made us the go-to store for all your furniture needs. Find out more by giving us a call or visiting our showroom today—we look forward to assisting you!