5 Ways to Take the Dull Out of Your Outdoor Furniture
When it comes to absorbing the punishing effects of summer sun, wind, rain storms and pool parties, your outdoor furniture bears as much of the brunt as your home’s other exterior elements. Even furniture touted as “weatherproof” needs its share of care. Follow these on a regular basis, and you’ll have no trouble bringing the “new” back into your cushions, furniture and even your deck.
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Cushion Cleanup
It only takes 15 minutes to freshen up your outdoor cushions. Just follow this recipe: Mix 1 teaspoon dishwashing detergent, 1 quart warm water and 1 tablespoon Borax. Saturate cushions with mixture on both sides, let sit for 15 minutes and spray off. Set cushions out in the sun to dry.
Can’t get your cushions as clean as you want? Here’s how to remake them.
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Plastic Furniture Recovery
Wipe down plastic furniture with all-purpose cleaner and a sponge. Looking for more steps? You won’t find any, because that’s all there is to it! Remember to avoid abrasive cleaners, which can scuff the surface.
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Metal Maintenance
Stainless steel and wrought iron furniture is highly durable. To make sure your metal furniture’s distinctive looks last through the years, wash it regularly with a quarter cup of dish soap and warm water. If your furniture finish is starting to rust, use steel wool to remove the rust and then repaint with a bright, fresh color.
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Wood and Wicker Furniture Fix
Remove dirt and grime from wicker and wood furniture with a soft brush. Then sponge down using oil-based soap and water to rinse off residue. Hose down regularly to keep dirt from building up in the crevices.
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Don’t Forget Your Deck
Clean furniture deserves a clean deck. Start by sweeping away sticks and debris. Then scrub your deck with a stiff-bristled deck brush and rinse with a garden hose. Some stains will only come out with a pressure washer (which you can rent from your local home improvement store). Wood decks might require resealing, re-staining or repainting and/or mildew treatment.
Hosting an outdoor party soon? Get ready to kick off the perfect party after following the decorating and menu tips in this article.