As the warm weather approaches, you’re probably excited to spend more time outdoors, lounging on your plastic outdoor furniture, and enjoying quality time with family and friends. However, before you can do that, you need to give your outdoor furniture a good cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and mildew that may have accumulated over the winter months. In this article, we’ll explore the best methods and products to use to clean your plastic outdoor furniture, so it looks like new and is ready for the outdoor living season.
Why Regular Cleaning is Important
Regular cleaning of your plastic outdoor furniture is crucial for several reasons:
- Prolongs the lifespan: Dirt and grime can cause scratches and cracks on the surface of your furniture, which can lead to premature wear and tear. Cleaning your furniture regularly helps prevent these damages, ensuring it lasts longer.
- Prevents mildew and mold: Plastic outdoor furniture can be prone to mildew and mold growth, especially in humid and wet conditions. Cleaning your furniture regularly helps remove moisture and prevents the growth of these microorganisms.
- Maintains appearance: Regular cleaning helps maintain the appearance of your furniture, keeping it looking like new and fresh.
- Improves safety: Dirt and grime can make your furniture slippery, which can be a safety hazard. Cleaning your furniture regularly helps improve traction and reduces the risk of slips and falls.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
When it comes to cleaning your plastic outdoor furniture, you’ll need the right cleaning products to get the job done effectively. Here are some options to consider:
Mild Soap and Water
A mild soap and water solution is a gentle and effective way to clean your plastic outdoor furniture. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to remove dirt and grime. Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Specialized Outdoor Furniture Cleaners
There are many specialized outdoor furniture cleaners available on the market that are specifically designed to clean plastic outdoor furniture. These products are often gentle on the surface yet tough on dirt and grime. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Vinegar and Water
A solution of equal parts vinegar and water is a natural and eco-friendly way to clean your plastic outdoor furniture. The acid in the vinegar helps break down dirt and grime, making it easy to remove. Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.
Baking Soda and Water
A paste made from baking soda and water is a gentle and non-abrasive way to clean your plastic outdoor furniture. Apply the paste to the furniture, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse with clean water.
Additional Cleaning Tips and Tricks
In addition to using the right cleaning products, here are some additional tips and tricks to help you clean your plastic outdoor furniture effectively:
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush
A soft-bristled brush is gentle on the surface of your plastic outdoor furniture and can help remove dirt and grime easily.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, to clean your plastic outdoor furniture, as they can damage the surface or cause discoloration.
Use a Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is a gentle and effective way to clean your plastic outdoor furniture. It can pick up dirt and grime easily without leaving streaks or marks.
Clean in the Shade
Whenever possible, clean your plastic outdoor furniture in the shade to prevent streaks and marks from forming.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your plastic outdoor furniture clean and looking its best. Set aside time each week to quickly wipe down the furniture with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Deep Cleaning Your Plastic Outdoor Furniture
If your plastic outdoor furniture is heavily soiled or has mildew and mold growth, you may need to deep clean it to remove tough stains and grime. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to deep clean your plastic outdoor furniture:
Step 1: Remove Loose Debris
Use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to remove loose debris and dirt from the surface of the furniture.
Step 2: Mix a Cleaning Solution
Mix a solution of equal parts water and a specialized outdoor furniture cleaner or a mild soap. Apply the solution to the furniture using a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive scrubber.
Step 3: Let it Sit
Let the solution sit on the furniture for 15-20 minutes to allow it to penetrate and break down tough stains and grime.
Step 4: Scrub the Furniture
Use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to scrub the furniture, working in a circular motion to remove tough stains and grime.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue and cleaning solution.
Step 6: Dry the Furniture
Use a microfiber cloth to dry the furniture, paying extra attention to any crevices or areas where water may collect.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are some common problems you may encounter when cleaning your plastic outdoor furniture and their solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Mildew and mold growth | Use a solution of equal parts water and bleach to kill mildew and mold. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth. |
| Tough stains | Use a specialized outdoor furniture cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. |
By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your plastic outdoor furniture clean, looking its best, and ready for the outdoor living season. Remember to always read the manufacturer’s instructions for any cleaning products you use, and test a small area first to ensure the product doesn’t damage the furniture. Happy cleaning!
What is the best way to clean plastic outdoor furniture?
The best way to clean plastic outdoor furniture is to start by mixing a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the solution and gently scrub the furniture, working from top to bottom. Make sure to clean all surfaces, including the legs and any crevices. Rinse the soap off with clean water, and then dry the furniture with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Regular cleaning can help prevent dirt and grime from building up, which can make your furniture look dull and discolored. For tougher stains, you can use a gentle cleaning product specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the plastic or leave it looking dull.
How often should I clean my plastic outdoor furniture?
The frequency of cleaning your plastic outdoor furniture depends on how often it’s used and exposed to the elements. If your furniture is used frequently, it’s a good idea to clean it every few weeks to prevent dirt and grime from building up. If it’s not used as often, you can clean it every 2-3 months. Additionally, if you notice any stains or spills, clean them immediately to prevent them from setting in.
It’s also a good idea to deep clean your furniture at the beginning and end of each outdoor living season. This can help remove any built-up dirt and grime, and make your furniture look like new again. Regular cleaning can also help extend the life of your furniture by preventing damage from dirt and grime.
Can I use bleach to clean my plastic outdoor furniture?
It’s generally not recommended to use bleach to clean plastic outdoor furniture, as it can damage the plastic or cause it to become brittle. Bleach can also remove the furniture’s finish or discolor certain types of plastic. Instead, stick to mild dish soap and warm water, or a gentle cleaning product specifically designed for plastic surfaces.
If you do need to use bleach, make sure to dilute it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Always rinse the bleach off thoroughly with clean water, and dry the furniture with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
How do I remove tough stains from my plastic outdoor furniture?
Tough stains on plastic outdoor furniture can be removed using a gentle cleaning product specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Apply the product to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it off with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the product off with clean water, and dry the furniture with a microfiber cloth.
For really tough stains, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, and then scrub it off with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the paste off with clean water, and dry the furniture with a microfiber cloth.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my plastic outdoor furniture?
It’s generally not recommended to use a pressure washer to clean plastic outdoor furniture, as the high pressure can damage the plastic or strip away its finish. Pressure washers can also force water into small crevices, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Instead, stick to cleaning your furniture by hand with a soft-bristled brush and a gentle cleaning product. This will help prevent damage and ensure your furniture looks its best.
How do I dry my plastic outdoor furniture after cleaning?
Drying your plastic outdoor furniture after cleaning is important to prevent water spots from forming. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the furniture, paying extra attention to any crevices or areas where water may collect. You can also use a clean, dry towel to dry the furniture.
Make sure to dry the furniture in a shaded area or out of direct sunlight, as direct sunlight can cause the plastic to become brittle or fade. Regular drying can also help prevent mold and mildew growth.
Can I use a polish or wax to protect my plastic outdoor furniture?
Yes, you can use a polish or wax to protect your plastic outdoor furniture and make it look like new again. Look for a product specifically designed for plastic surfaces, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
A polish or wax can help protect your furniture from the elements, prevent scratches and cracks, and make it easier to clean. It can also give your furniture a glossy finish and make it look more vibrant. Just be sure to apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid using too much or applying it too frequently.