How to Care for your Outdoor Furniture

Many of the beautiful pieces of outdoor furniture today come with a hefty price tag, so you will want to protect your investment my learning the proper way to care for your items. The proper care of your outdoor furniture will depend largely upon how much wear and tear it takes in your climate and the material that is used to craft the pieces. By carefully caring for the furniture that graces your front porch and back patio, you will be able to enjoy your pieces for many years to come.

Metal Furniture Much of our outdoor furniture is created from a variety of metals, from airy aluminum to beautiful wrought iron. If your metal furniture is painted, it is very important not to scrape the metal against hard surfaces that could chip the paint and result in rusted spots. For paint that is baked onto the metal surface, you can keep your pieces in top condition by applying a wax at the beginning and end of the season. This will also give your outdoor furniture a nice shine throughout its months of use. It is also a good idea to oil all of the moving parts every years and replace loose or rusted bolts and screws as necessary.

Wicker Furniture There is nothing that says summer like a set of wicker outdoor furniture sporting a tray of refreshing iced tea and some bright, tropical cushions for comfort. However, wicker furniture needs to be treated right if you want to continue to enjoy that set for many seasons. This is not the type of furniture that will work well in a completely exposed area like an uncovered patio. If your wicker is painted or constructed of bamboo, avoid getting the surface too wet when washing. Instead, opt for a thorough vacuuming and spot cleaning as necessary. Other wicker outdoor furniture can be cleaned once a year with the hose to keep it looking its best.

Wood Furniture Whether it is a painted Adirondack chair or a complete dining set, wood outdoor furniture can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor landscape. However, wood needs its own version of TLC, particularly when it is exposed to the elements outside for most of its life. This type of outdoor furniture tends to fade in the sunlight, whether it is painted or stained. You will probably need to do some sprucing up each spring, but make sure you sand the surface well before applying any other substance. It is also a good idea to clean the wood with mineral spirits or soap and water before adding a fresh coat of stain or paint.

Outdoor furniture is a wonderful way to extend your living space to your yard when the weather warms up. With the proper care and maintenance, you will be able to enjoy your outdoor pieces for many years to come.

Tags: Outdoor Furniture