Summertime is here and boy, do we love to gather outside as much as we can. As you spend time outdoors with your family, you’ll enjoy your time more if your outdoor furniture is clean, and well maintained. 

Here are some tips you can use to help keep your outdoor furniture clean and in good working order:

  • Aluminum, wrought iron, and steel furniture: should be cleaned with mild soap and water.  On non-textured surfaces, you can apply car wax to maintain the furniture.  On textured surfaces, apply baby oil or mineral oil.  For aluminum, occasionally spray an oil lubricant on chair swivels or glides.  To remove rust from steel or wrought iron, simply sand the area, wipe clean, and apply touch-up paint.
  • Outdoor wicker: should be vacuumed gently or cleaned with a soft bristle brush.  Be sure to clean it periodically with a mild detergent and water, then rinse thoroughly and let it air dry.  
  • Outdoor seat cushions: should first be vacuumed.  Clean by sponging with a mild detergent and warm water, then rinse the cushions thoroughly.  If your cushions have mildew, fill a bucket with 1 gallon of water, 1 cup of bleach, and a squirt of mild detergent.  Test for colorfastness, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse.  
  • Umbrellas: to clean umbrellas, use a brush to wash with mild soap and water.  Spray the joints of wire frames with silicone.  If you have wooden framed umbrellas, use a wax or furniture polish to maintain the wood.  
  • Plastic furniture: should be cleaned using a mild detergent & warm water.

Bonus Outdoor Tips:

  • The patio is a great place for hosting a family game night.
  • Sparkling deck lights make for a festive occasion.
  • Soft lighting from solar stakes can lead the way around nighttime hazards.
  • A citronella plant and candles help to keep mosquitoes at bay. 
  • Help guests stay cool at summer barbeques with inexpensive spray misters in bright colors.
  • A kid sized inflatable pool makes a great beverage cooler. Be sure to keep a close eye on children as the ice melts.
  • Sidewalk chalk brings out the artist in all of us!
  • Bats are fun to watch and come out just about dusk. 
  • An outdoor scavenger hunt can include things that you hear and smell (think grilling burgers or birds chirping) as well as what you can see.
  • We all love to play hopscotch.