Comfort
You will be using your outdoor furniture to relax and be comfortable. Thin seat cushions don’t make a comfortable seat. Look for nice thick cushions that will remain comfortable when you lay out or settle into a good book. Chaise lounges, rockers, and recliners are also great for relaxing outdoors.
Fabric/Materials
There are many types of fabric/materials to choose from when selecting your outdoor furniture. Make sure your new patio furniture is covered in a good quality outdoor fabric that is fade and mildew resistant. The climate you live in plays a big role in determining what material is a good fit. Here in Southern Utah, the sun is very hard on anything that it touches. Quality outdoor fabrics may cost a bit more, but you will get many more seasons of use out of them.
Another important thing to consider is the amount of care that the frame needs. Weather resistant materials such as aluminum, teak or resin do not need much care. Wrought iron can last for a really long time and can take heat and moisture, and due to it’s weight, is very wind resistant.
Resin furniture is also impervious to damp conditions and is available in many different looks and finishes.
Maintenance
Dust, leaves, and other loose debris are likely to gather on furniture. A cover is the best way to keep your patio furniture clean when not in use. If you don’t have covers don’t worry, cleaning is easy as long as you don’t let it get away from you. Start your cleanup by using a brush or dry cloth to wipe away any loose materials. Wood, metal, plastic or fabric may be sprayed down using a garden hose with a spray attachment to dislodge lingering surface debris.
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Plastic
Plastic and resin furniture is inexpensive and comes in a wide variety of styles, making it the most popular choice for deck and lawn furniture. It also happens to be the easiest to maintain. Skip the abrasives (which can scuff the surface) and simply spray with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe down with a sponge or damp cloth to keep plastic furniture looking good.
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Metal
Wrought iron and stainless steel are popular choices for outdoor furniture for their durability and ease of maintenance. In most cases, metal patio furniture will easily return to “like new” condition by using a sponge or brush to clean surfaces with a quarter cup of mild dish soap added to a gallon of warm water.
Carmadelia Dining Table Set
The greatest enemy of metal furniture is rust. Although metal patio furniture is often painted or coated with a rust-resistant finish, these will wear away over time. If rust is detected, use steel wool to remove oxidation and consider repainting the furniture to prevent future problems.
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Wicker, Teak, and Other Wood
Using a power washer may be tempting, but is likely to scar or otherwise damage soft wood and is strongly discouraged. Instead, use a mild oil soap or soapy water and a soft brush or sponge to remove any grit or grime. Wicker may require a toothbrush to get into the weave and can be time-consuming. To ease this chore, clean regularly to reduce build-up.
Peachstone 5-Piece Fire Pit Set
Hard woods like teak will clean up nicely when you use a weak solution of laundry detergent or one of the many commercial products available specifically for the job. Work in small sections and dry thoroughly when finished. Resist the urge to use teak oil on your hardwood furniture, which can encourage mildew.
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Fabric
Hammocks, seat covers, and stretched fabric look great but get dirty quickly. Because they are manufactured from a variety of materials, both natural and synthetic, the safest method for cleaning is to use a solution of dish soap and warm water. Whenever possible, consult manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning methods. In some cases, the fabric may be removed and washed in a washing machine set to gentle. Air-dry to avoid damage from a hot dryer. Once clean, consider applying a water-repellent fabric protector to minimize future staining.
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Dealing With Mold
Rain and humidity often leave outdoor furniture damp and prone to the development of mold and mildew on its surfaces. To deal with mold, make sure the furniture is dry and scrub with a brush to remove surface mold and spray with a hose to rinse. Once dry-scrubbed, full-strength white vinegar and a hard brush will remove stubborn mildew. Diluted bleach is also effective in removing mold from hard surfaces, but may discolor some materials and isn’t always the best choice. When in doubt, error on the side of caution.
Wicker Sectional by Emerald