Patio Furniture Care 101

Outdoor furniture is engineered to be tough, but it is not maintenance-free. A little attention every few weeks — plus a proper end-of-season routine — is what separates a set that lasts five seasons from one that lasts fifteen.

Teak and other hardwoods

Rinse with a garden hose, scrub with mild soap and a soft brush, and let dry fully. Skip pressure washers — they gouge the grain. Sand lightly with 120-grit only if the surface feels rough, and oil once or twice a year if you want to preserve the golden color. For the full walkthrough, read our teak care guide.

Powder-coated aluminum

Wipe frames with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which scratch the powder coat and expose the aluminum underneath. If you find a chip, touch it up with matching outdoor enamel to prevent oxidation. Tighten hardware once a year — aluminum expands and contracts more than steel, and bolts can back out over time.

All-weather wicker

Vacuum dust and pollen out of the weave with a soft brush attachment. Clean spots with warm water and a drop of dish soap on a soft cloth. Rinse from above so water runs down rather than into the joints. Genuine HDPE resin wicker is UV-stable; if yours becomes brittle in the sun, it is a lower-grade material and should be replaced.

Cushions and pillows

• Brush off debris weekly with a stiff dry brush.
• Spot-clean with warm water and mild soap; blot, do not scrub.
• Remove covers and machine-wash cold once a season if the covers are removable.
• Stand cushions on end to dry — never fold them wet.
• Store in a dry shed or cushion box during rainy weeks and over winter.

Fire pits, umbrellas, and rugs

Cover gas fire pits when not in use to keep burners clear. Close umbrellas whenever you leave the patio — wind is the leading cause of umbrella damage. Outdoor rugs should be lifted and hosed off every few weeks to prevent mold on the deck below.

End-of-season checklist

• Deep-clean every surface before storing or covering.
• Dry everything completely — trapped moisture is the enemy.
• Store cushions and pillows indoors or in a sealed deck box.
• Use breathable furniture covers, not plastic tarps.
• Elevate covered pieces on blocks to keep legs off wet ground.