As the days grow warmer and summer approaches, it’s time to prepare your garden for the season to come. One essential aspect of your garden is your seating area. Over time, outdoor furniture can accumulate dirt, grime, and can be subject to weather-related wear and tear. But don't worry—cleaning your garden furniture doesn’t need to be a daunting task. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your garden furniture is in tip-top shape for the summer season.

General cleaning steps

Step 1: Prepare the Furniture

Start by stripping your furniture of any cushions or throws. Put these aside to be cleaned separately. This step ensures that you have full access to all areas of the furniture and prevents the cushions from getting wet or soapy.

Step 2: Mix the Cleaning Solution

In a bucket, mix warm water with Liquipak’s Lemon Cleaner. This powerful liquid is designed to be tough on dirt while being gentle on your furniture’s materials.

Step 3: Scrub the Furniture

Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the furniture with the soapy water. Focus on loosening any dirt and grime that may have adhered to the surface. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the material. Replace the water in your bucket with fresh soapy water as it gets dirty.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing, take your garden hose and rinse off any remaining dirt and soap from the furniture. Make sure to rinse all surfaces thoroughly to prevent any soap residue from attracting more dirt.

Step 5: Dry the Furniture

Turn off the hose and use an old towel to wipe down the furniture, removing as much water as possible. Then, let your furniture air dry completely before replacing the cushions or throws. This step is crucial to prevent water spots and mildew, especially if you have wooden furniture.

Special Care for Wooden Furniture

Wooden garden furniture requires a bit of extra care to maintain its appearance and durability. Here’s how to keep your wooden furniture looking great:

 Light Cleaning: For a light clean, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water, to gently remove dirt. Wipe along the grain of the wood to avoid any potential damage.

 Deep Cleaning: If your wooden furniture needs a deeper clean, follow the general cleaning steps above, ensuring you scrub only in the direction of the wood grain. This helps maintain the integrity of the wood’s surface.

Maintaining the Wood: To keep your wooden furniture looking nearly new, apply Liquipak’s Bac50 to preserve its colour and add a layer of protection. Before applying, wash the furniture and sand it in the direction of the grain. Apply the Biocide as directed. Bac50 should be reapplied at least once a year, depending on the condition of your furniture. For easy application try our new 5L pressure sprayer, this will help to ensure an even coverage.

 Addressing Mildew on Fabric Furniture: Leaving fabric garden furniture outside in humid or damp conditions can lead to the formation of mildew. If left untreated, mildew can develop into mould, creating unpleasant smells and potential health hazards.Keeping your fabric clean and storing it in a dry, well-ventilated area will prevent mildew and mould. 

What You'll Need

Liquipak’s White Vinegar / White Vinegar Sicilian Lemon

Damp sponge or cloth

Nylon brush

Cleaning Method

Apply Vinegar: Spray Liquipak’s White Vinegar over the mildew spots on the fabric. Allow it to sit for about an hour, ideally on a warm sunny day. The sun helps the vinegar work more effectively and speeds up the drying process.

Wipe Residue: After an hour, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe away any residue. The vinegar should have loosened the mildew, making it easy to remove.

Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn stains, spray more white vinegar and scrub gently with a nylon brush. Let the solution sit again, then wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. Repeat until the mildew is completely removed.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Frequent Cleaning: Regularly dust and wipe down your furniture to prevent dirt buildup. A quick wipe with a damp cloth once a week can keep your furniture looking fresh.

Protect from Elements: Use furniture covers or store your furniture in a shed or garage during harsh weather conditions to extend its lifespan.

Treat Wooden Furniture: Annually apply Bac50 (or every 6 months depending on it’s condition) to help avoid a build-up of algae and lichen on your garden furniture.

Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your furniture for any signs of damage or wear and repair it promptly to prevent further deterioration.

By following these steps and tips with Liquipak’s effective cleaning products, you can ensure that your garden furniture remains in excellent condition throughout the summer. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will not only enhance the appearance of your outdoor space but also extend the life of your furniture, allowing you to enjoy your garden to the fullest. Happy summer cleaning!