So you’ve chosen the perfect furniture for your garden to make the most of your outdoor space. You’ve spent a lot of time debating which pieces would change how your backyard feels and looks, so of course, now that you’ve found the right items, you want to keep them for as long as possible.
Ultimately, quality garden furniture is an investment, and the last thing you expect is having to buy a new set next year. The truth is that without proper maintenance, your garden furniture can rapidly lose its luster.
In the UK, most homeowners use their garden furniture from spring until the start of autumn, or even later in the season, depending on the weather. So, what can you do during these two and a half seasons to protect your furniture?
Furniture Covers
There’s no secret: the easiest way to protect your furniture is by using proper covers when the pieces are not in use. Outdoor furniture may be designed to withstand some level of weather conditions, but constant exposure can still lead to gradual wear over time.
So, that’s where fitted, waterproof covers can help reduce damage from both rain and sun exposure. Besides, covers also keep your pieces dry, so you can enjoy your morning coffee in the garden without worrying about early dew ruining your outfit.
Proper Storage
Storage is especially important during colder months when you don’t use your garden as frequently. Even weather-resistant materials can benefit from being protected during long periods of frost, winds, rain, and even snow.
For homeowners, there are a few options to choose from. The garage is a good place to keep furniture. But for those with not enough space in the garage, small sheds can be a very practical solution. Make sure to not just bring cushions indoors, but also pieces of furniture.
Cleaning it
Looking after your garden furniture also includes cleaning it regularly. However, make sure you understand how to clean your specific set. Different materials need different cleaning techniques.
As a rule of thumb, wooden furniture needs to be cleaned gently using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush or cloth. Additionally, you may want to add the occasional oil treatment to ensure the wood doesn’t dry out.
Metal furniture, on the other hand, is a walk in the park to clean. You can usually use pressure washing safely on those surfaces, unless the paint is chipped or damaged. Typically, a simple wipe-down with mild soapy water is all you need to remove dirt, but if the job is tough, you can use a jet washer on a low setting.
Rattan and synthetic woven furniture should only be dry cleaned using a soft brush or a vacuum to remove trapped dust and dirt.
If you have cushions and other fabrics, ideally, it’s best to choose removable covers you can wash in the washing machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will save you a lot of time and hassle.
So, if you are in the process of setting up your outdoor lounge on the patio, ready for the summer, this is your reminder to look after your furniture.
