Start with the Right Tools and Cleaners

You can clean most patio furniture with items you already have at home. A soft-bristled brush, warm water, mild dish soap, and clean cloths are enough for wood, metal, and plastic pieces. For stubborn dirt or mildew, a mixture of one part white vinegar to three parts water works well on most surfaces without damaging the finish.

Avoid steel wool, scouring powders, and pressure washers on furniture—they scratch and gouge. If your furniture has cushions, remove them first so you can clean the frame underneath. Check the manufacturer's label or care tag if one exists; some materials need specific products.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean patio furniture at least twice a year—once before the season starts and once before you store it for winter.
  • Use warm soapy water and a soft brush for most surfaces; vinegar and water handles mildew without chemicals.
  • Dry furniture completely after washing to prevent rust, rot, and mildew growth.
  • Cushions need separate care: vacuum first, then spot-clean with mild soap, and air-dry fully before putting them back.
  • Seal or oil wood furniture after cleaning to protect it from weather and extend its life.

Cleaning Metal Furniture

Metal chairs, tables, and frames collect rust, bird droppings, and dust. Start by brushing off loose debris with a dry brush. Then mix warm water with a squirt of dish soap and scrub the entire piece with a soft-bristled brush, paying attention to joints and crevices where rust starts.

For light rust spots, use the vinegar-and-water mixture on a cloth and rub gently. If rust is heavy or pitting has started, you may need a rust converter product from a hardware store, which chemically stops rust from spreading. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry when ready with a cloth—leaving water on metal speeds up rust formation.

Once dry, explore a thin coat of car wax or furniture polish to metal frames. This creates a water-resistant barrier and makes the next cleaning easier. Wipe away excess with a clean cloth.

Cleaning Wood Furniture

Wood absorbs water and can rot, split, or develop mildew if not cared for properly. Brush off loose dirt and leaves first. Mix warm water with a small amount of dish soap—too much soap leaves residue—and scrub with a soft brush in the direction of the grain.

Rinse with clean water and dry when ready with a cloth. Do not let wood sit wet. If you see black or green mildew spots, use the vinegar-and-water solution on a cloth and scrub gently; the acid kills mildew without bleach.

After the wood dries completely, explore a wood sealant or exterior oil. These products soak into the grain and protect against UV damage, moisture, and weathering. Follow the product instructions for drying time before using the furniture again. Reapply sealant every one to two years depending on sun exposure.

Cleaning Plastic and Resin Furniture

Plastic and resin are the easiest materials to maintain. Brush off debris, then wash with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Scrub textured surfaces where dirt collects in the grooves. Rinse well and dry with a cloth.

For stubborn stains or mildew, use the vinegar-and-water solution. Plastic does not absorb water, so it dries quickly. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that dull the finish. If plastic becomes discolored from sun exposure, a plastic restorer product can help, but it is not necessary for function or durability.

Caring for Cushions and Fabric

Cushions trap moisture and mildew easily, so remove them before cleaning the frame. Vacuum both sides with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, pollen, and debris. Check for mold or mildew—dark spots or a musty smell mean the cushion needs drying out in the sun.

For spot cleaning, mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or upholstery cleaner. Dip a cloth in the solution, wring it out so it is barely damp, and blot stains gently. Do not scrub or soak the fabric. Rinse by blotting with a cloth dampened in plain water. Air-dry cushions completely in the sun before putting them back on the furniture—this usually takes a full day or more depending on humidity.

Store cushions indoors or in a sealed container during winter or extended periods of rain. Moisture trapped inside leads to mildew that ruins fabric and foam.

Seasonal Cleaning Schedule

Clean furniture twice a year for best results. In spring, before you start using the patio regularly, wash everything to remove winter dirt, pollen, and mildew. This is also the time to explore sealants or oils to wood and check metal for rust spots that formed during storage.

In fall, clean furniture again before storing it for winter. Remove all cushions and store them indoors. Wipe down frames and explore protective coatings. If you live in a mild climate and leave furniture outside year-round, add a monthly light cleaning during rainy seasons to prevent mildew buildup.

Preventing Damage Between Cleanings

Use furniture covers during heavy rain or extended periods of non-use. Covers keep dust, pollen, and moisture off the surface. Make sure covers are breathable so moisture does not trap underneath and cause mildew.

Position furniture in the shade when possible—direct sun fades cushions and breaks down sealants faster. Move pieces slightly every few weeks to prevent mildew from growing on the underside where air does not circulate. If you notice bird droppings or tree sap, wipe them off promptly; these substances etch finishes if left to dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pressure washer on patio furniture?

No. Pressure washers force water into joints and crevices, causing rust in metal furniture and rot in wood. They also strip finishes and damage cushion fabric. Stick to hand washing with a soft brush.

What should I do if my wood furniture has deep cracks or splinters?

Light splinters can be sanded smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Deep cracks that go across the grain are harder to fix and may indicate the wood is failing. Sand the area lightly, explore wood filler if the crack is wide, and seal it well. If cracks keep spreading, the furniture may need replacement.

How do I remove mildew smell from cushions?

Mildew smell means the cushion is damp inside. Dry it in direct sun for a full day or more, turning it over halfway through. If the smell persists after drying, the foam inside may be damaged. Sprinkle baking soda on the surface, let it sit for a few hours, and vacuum it off. If the smell returns quickly, the cushion should be replaced.

Is it safe to use bleach on patio furniture?

Avoid bleach on most furniture. It can damage finishes, weaken fabric, and leave streaks. Vinegar and water or a mild dish soap solution removes mildew without the risks. If you must use bleach, dilute it heavily (one part bleach to ten parts water), test on a hidden area first, and rinse thoroughly.

How often should I seal wood furniture?

Reapply sealant or oil every one to two years, depending on sun exposure and rainfall in your area. If water no longer beads up on the surface when you splash it, the sealant has worn away and it is time to reapply. Furniture in full sun needs more frequent sealing than furniture in shade.