Getting Ready for Spring: How to Clean and Maintain Your Patio Furniture in February

The end of winter is within sight, and soon, it will be time to start enjoying sunny days on your patio again. But before you can relax outdoors, your patio furniture needs some TLC after sitting unused under the snow for the past few months. February is the perfect time to clean and restore your outdoor furniture so it’s ready for spring entertaining. Here are some tips to get your patio set in the best condition.

Inspect for Damage

Start by carefully looking over each piece of furniture. Check for mould, mildew, cracked wood, ripped cushions, and any other issues that may have arisen over the winter. Make notes on what needs to be repaired or replaced. You may also want to take pictures so you remember exactly what needs attention later.

Deep Clean the Surfaces 

Outdoor furniture collects a lot of dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and other grime over the winter. Give every surface a thorough scrubbing to remove debris. Use a hose with a strong spray nozzle to wash away loose particles. Scrub with a stiff bristle brush and an all-purpose cleaner for sturdy wood, wicker, and metal frames. For fabric cushions, use a mild soap and scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse everything thoroughly and let air dry completely.

Treat for Mould and Mildew

If you noticed any fungal growth in your initial inspection, tackle that next. In a spray bottle, mix one part bleach with four parts water. Liberally spray the solution onto affected areas, wait 10 minutes, and then rinse clean. This will kill mould spores and prevent future outbreaks. Let the furniture dry fully before proceeding.

Fix Rips and Cracks

Check frame joints for loose screws or nails and tighten them up. Use wood glue to repair minor cracks and holes in wood frames. Patch small vinyl strap tears with super glue. Larger rips may need professional welding. Reupholster or replace cushions with busted seams, holes, or broken zippers.

Refresh Surfaces 

Once everything is clean, dry, and intact, restore surfaces to their original lustre. Revitalize wood frames with teak oil. Touch-up paint metal frames that need it. Replace faded fabric cushion covers or refresh them with upholstery cleaner and protectant.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Make sure moving parts like hinges, swivels, and folding mechanisms are well-oiled to operate smoothly. Wipe away dusty grit, then apply machine oil or lithium grease and let it penetrate. Buff off excess lubricant with a rag. Test to ensure parts move freely.

Waterproof Fabrics

Spray fabric cushion covers and slings with a waterproofing solution to protect them. This repels liquids, so spills and rain don’t permanently stain. Reapply the waterproofer once a season.

Check Umbrellas

As you did on cushions, inspect umbrella canopies for mould and mildew. Spot-clean them using mild detergent and water, then let them air dry. Check poles and crank mechanisms to ensure they still operate properly, lubricating joints as needed.

With a little elbow grease, you can get your outdoor furniture looking fresh and renewed before spring. Then, you can kick back on your clean, damage-free patio set and relax as the warmer weather returns. Properly maintaining your furniture each winter will keep it in tip-top shape for years. If you're looking to add new outdoor furniture to your home, check out Luxe Furniture Company. Our collection of stylish, durable outdoor furniture sets and accessories will assist you in creating your dream outdoor oasis. Shop now!