Have you ever gone out to unwind on your patio furniture set and discovered it encrusted in dust, pollen, or stains? Nobody likes it when their backyard retreat is messy. Inclement weather, birds, or even a barbecue can leave your garden loungers uninviting and dirty.

The best part? Cleaning and caring for patio lounge furniture is easier than you believed! Whether you own garden sun loungers or an entire outdoor lounge set, this post discusses it all, including removing difficult stains and storage principles.

Why It's Important to Clean and Store Patio Lounge Furniture

Outdoor furniture is subjected to various elements: rain, dust, pollen, direct sunlight, and birds. These, over time, result in fading, mould growth and mildew, and even structural decay. Cleaning and proper storage regularly ensure the beauty and comfort of your backyard lounge setup remain intact.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Patio Furniture

1. Clean Debris and Cushions

Begin by taking out all cushions and shaking them to remove dirt, dust, and leaves. Clean cobwebs and dirt from corners and joints on your garden loungers.

2. Choose The Right Cleaning Solution

Plastic or resin: Combine mild soap with warm water.

Metal: Clean with a mild detergent on a damp cloth. Dry completely to avoid rust.

Wood: Clean with soapy water and a soft-bristled brush and then thoroughly dry.

Cloth cushions: Wash using the manufacturer's directions and a mild soap solution and air-dry.

3. Gently Scrub

Wipe all surfaces using a soft cloth or a soft brush. For more persistent stains, apply a more concentrated detergent-to-water solution (1:3). Never use harsh chemicals because they tend to spoil the furniture's texture and colour.

4. Rinse and Dry

Rinse all furniture using a garden hose and then dry using a towel. Dry completely in the air prior to replacing cushions and storage.

5. Check and tighten bolts and screws

Check all bolts and screws on your patio furniture and tighten any that are loose. Doing so ensures stability and minimises wear.

6. Fix Any Damage

Check for cracks, tears or scratches and fix them promptly. Use plastic exterior adhesive to fix plastic, repair tears in cloth, or change worn-out parts. This prevents small issues from becoming big problems.

How to Store Patio Lounge Furniture

Clean Before Storage: 

Keep furniture clean before storage. Dirt and humidity can lead to mould and mildew in storage and rust during extended storage periods.

Utilise Protective Covers: 

Invest in waterproof and UV-proof covers. They protect your garden sun loungers from rain and sunlight and keep their quality intact and prolonging their lifespan.

Keep in a Dry, Cool Location: 

If you won't be using your patio set outdoors for an extended time, store it in a basement, shed, or garage. A cool, dry area safeguards against heat and moisture damage.

Disassemble if Possible: 

To save space, disassemble large items. Keep all hardware (bolts, screws) in labeled bags for easy reassembly.  

Conclusion

Keeping patio lounge furniture in tip-top shape does not have to be difficult. With frequent cleaning, minor repairs, and clever storage, your furniture will last for many years to come. Whether you have an entire outdoor living room grouping or a couple of garden lounges, following these steps will ensure that your furniture stays in top condition. Consistency is crucial, clean and cover your furniture and keep it in a secure location. And when you want sturdy, design-driven and easy-to-maintain garden sun lounges and patio living room furniture, look for Virasat Furniture's Outdoor Collection. Our furniture is crafted to be durable and designed to withstand all seasons with ease.