Outdoor furniture, when well arranged and maintained can take your outdoor space to another level. While arranging furniture is one-time task, to keep you outdoor furniture in prestige condition you will need to clean them regularly.

For best results, you should clean your outdoor tables and chairs for at least four times a year. Once at the beginning of the hot season, once at the end of the hot season, and a couple of times in between. If possible, you should store your outdoor furniture indoors during winter months to prevent extra weathering and staining.

Here are few great tips for cleaning outdoor tables and chairs that will help you keep your outdoor furniture looking like new for longer.

Wood outdoor furniture (including wicker and teak)

Use a mild oil-base soap product mixed with warm water or do your own cleaning solution mixing 2 tablespoons white vinegar, ¼ cup ammonia, and 1 liter of water.

If you choose to use a wood cleaner, make sure to read the directions carefully before applying it to your furniture.

For hardwood furniture, consider sanding and applying a fresh coat of protective finish on it once a year.

Hose down wicker furniture every two weeks to avoid dirt buildup in the crevices.

Clean your tables and chairs on a regular base to keep them free of debris and excess of water.

Metal outdoor furniture (including iron, cast iron, and aluminum)

Oxidation is a common problem with aluminum furniture. So before cleaning outdoor tables and chairs made off aluminum, make sure to remove as much of the imperfection as possible.

Use a metal polish paste or a solution of white vinegar and water to remove the oxidation.

Do not use chemicals such as ammonia and TSP. These products can lead oxidation.

To preserve the natural luster of aluminum furniture, wash them frequently.

Use a soft scrub to remove scuff marks.

To combat rust, sand it off along with damaged paint. Next, use a mineral spirits and a clean cloth to wipe off metal residue. Apply a rust-resistant primer before painting the furniture with a rust-resistant paint.

For extra protection, apply a coat of automotive wax on the furniture after cleanings.

Plastic outdoor furniture (including hard-resin materials)

Cleaning solutions that you can use to clean your plastic outdoor furniture include:

Mix ½ cup washing soda with 4 liters warm water.

Mix 3 tablespoons automatic dishwasher detergent with 4 liters warm water.

For colored plastic mix ¼ cup vinegar with 1 liter warm water.

Avoid using chlorine and beach products on white plastic. They can cause damage to the material.

Use a clean rag dampened in white distilled vinegar to wipe down stubborn stains.

Apply a coat of automotive paste wax on your furniture after washing it for extra protection.