With the warmer months ahead, it’s time to start thinking about sprucing up your outdoor living space. Furniture made from metal is a popular choice for outdoor seating and dining areas because of its durability and ease of maintenance, but few people know how to properly clean their metal furnishings. Luckily, we have just the solutions you need to keep your space looking as good as new!
In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean outdoor metal furniture. From scrubbing away surface grime with household cleaners to more intense treatments such as sandblasting or powder-coating, there are plenty of ways you can restore your favorite pieces and make them look brand new again!
Why May You Want to Clean Outdoor Metal Furniture?
1 . To Keep Your Furniture Looking New
Outdoor metal furniture is constantly exposed to the elements, which can take a toll on its appearance. From rain and snow to harsh UV rays, your outdoor metal furniture may start looking dull, rusty, or discolored over time. Cleaning it regularly can restore its original shine and make it look like new again.
2 . To Remove Dirt and Debris
Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on your outdoor metal furniture over time. If left unattended, this build-up can trap moisture and lead to corrosion and rust. By cleaning your furniture regularly, you not only keep it looking good but also prevent damage that could shorten its lifespan.
3 . To Improve Durability
Regular cleaning is an essential part of maintaining durable outdoor metal furniture. Dirt, dust, and grime that build up over time can cause scratches or abrasions on the surface of your furniture. Regular cleaning can help prevent these kinds of damage and protect the integrity and durability of your furniture.
4 . To Create a Clean and Inviting Outdoor Space
Outdoor metal furniture is typically used for relaxation and entertaining purposes. Therefore, keeping it clean and well-maintained is crucial for creating an inviting outdoor space. Regular cleaning ensures that your furniture is always ready for use, making your outdoor space more enjoyable.
How to Clean Outdoor Metal Furniture in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before you get started, you will need to gather all the necessary supplies. This includes a bucket, warm water, mild dish soap or detergent, white vinegar, a scrub brush or sponge, and a hose with an adjustable nozzle.
Step 2: Prepare Your Space
Choose an outdoor area where your furniture can be easily cleaned without causing any damage to surrounding plants, grass, or other items. Make sure to sweep away any debris that may have accumulated on the furniture.
Step 3: Create a Cleaning Solution
Mix equal parts warm water and mild dish soap or detergent in a bucket. For tougher stains, you can add a splash of white vinegar to the solution. This will help break down any grime or stubborn dirt.
Step 4: Scrub Away Dirt and Grime
Using a scrub brush or sponge, dip it into the cleaning solution and start scrubbing away at the furniture. Make sure to pay extra attention to any areas with visible dirt or stains.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have scrubbed away all the dirt and grime, use a hose with an adjustable nozzle to rinse off the furniture. Make sure to thoroughly rinse away all the soap and vinegar solution.
Step 6: Let it Dry
Allow your outdoor metal furniture to air dry in a well-ventilated area before using it again. Avoid using any towels or cloths as they may leave behind lint or fibers on the surface of the furniture. Also, make sure to avoid putting any cushions or fabric on the furniture until it is completely dry.
Cleaning outdoor metal furniture may seem like a daunting task, but with these simple steps, you can easily maintain its beauty and prolong its lifespan. Regular cleaning will not only keep your furniture looking good, but it will also prevent any potential damage caused by built-up dirt and grime. So grab your supplies and start cleaning today!
Some Extra Tips to Clean Outdoor Metal Furniture
1 . To Avoid Rusting, Regularly Repaint Your Metal Furniture
If you have metal outdoor furniture, it is important to clean it regularly to maintain its beauty. However, in addition to cleaning, repainting your outdoor metal furniture every few years will help prevent rusting and prolong its lifespan. To do this effectively, first start by removing any loose paint or rust with a wire brush. Then, wash the furniture with a mild soap and water solution before priming it with a rust-inhibiting primer. Finally, apply outdoor metal paint to give your furniture a fresh new look.
2 . Clean Your Furniture in Warm Weather for Faster Drying
When cleaning outdoor metal furniture, it is best to do so on warm sunny days. This will help your furniture to dry faster without leaving any water spots. However, avoid cleaning it on extremely hot days as the cleaning solution may evaporate too quickly before you can clean your entire furniture.
3 . Avoid Using Abrasive Cleaners
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes when cleaning your outdoor metal furniture. These harsh products can cause scratches and damage to your furniture’s surface, which in turn makes it more susceptible to rusting. Instead, opt for a mild soap and water solution or a 50-50 mix of vinegar and water to clean your furniture.
4 . Protect Your Furniture from Harsh Weather Elements
The best way to maintain the look of your outdoor metal furniture is to protect it from harsh weather elements such as rain, snow, and direct sunlight. If possible, store your furniture in a covered area during extreme weather conditions. If you cannot move your furniture, consider using furniture covers to protect it from the elements.
5 . Use a Pressure Washer for Deep Cleaning
If your outdoor metal furniture is heavily soiled or has tough stains, you may need to use a pressure washer to deep clean it. However, be careful not to use too much pressure as this can damage the furniture’s surface. Use a low-pressure setting and hold the nozzle at least one foot away from the furniture while cleaning.
Frequently Asked Qusetions
What Precautions Should I Take When Cleaning Outdoor Metal Furniture?
Before you dive into cleaning your outdoor metal furniture, make sure to take some precautions to avoid any damage. Begin by removing all the cushions and other accessories from your furniture. This will help prevent any dirt or debris from getting onto them during the cleaning process. Next, inspect your furniture for any loose screws or bolts that might need tightening. Not only does this ensure the safety of your furniture, but it also makes sure that you don’t lose any important pieces during the cleaning process.
How Often Should I Clean My Outdoor Metal Furniture?
How often you clean your outdoor metal furniture depends largely on where you live and how frequently you use your furniture. If you live in a dry climate with minimal rainfall, your furniture will likely accumulate less dirt and debris, meaning you can clean it less frequently.
On the other hand, if you live in a more humid climate with frequent rainfall, your furniture may need to be cleaned more often. Similarly, if you use your outdoor metal furniture daily, then cleaning it once every week or two would be recommended. However, if you only use it occasionally, once every month or two should suffice.
What Cleaning Products Should I Use?
When cleaning outdoor metal furniture, you want to avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbing brushes as these can cause scratches and damage the finish. Instead, opt for a mild soap solution or a special metal cleaner. Dilute some dish soap in warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the furniture. If your furniture has tougher stains or grime buildup, a metal cleaner specifically designed for outdoor use can help remove them without causing any damage.
Can I Use a Pressure Washer to Clean My Outdoor Metal Furniture?
Using a pressure washer may seem like a quick and efficient way to clean your outdoor metal furniture, but it’s not recommended. The high water pressure can damage the finish and cause rust or corrosion in the long run. If you do choose to use a pressure washer, make sure to keep it at a low-pressure setting and maintain a safe distance from the furniture.
Conclusion
With a little time and effort, your outdoor metal furniture can remain in great condition for years to come. So, roll up your sleeves, grab the necessary items, and get to work on making sure that your outdoor metal furniture is always looking its best. Doing so will ensure that it’s protected from nature’s various elements like rain and sun exposure.
Now you know how to clean outdoor metal furniture! Plus, it’ll make you feel good knowing that you’re taking care of something you bring great joy to. Don’t wait – start giving your outdoor metal furniture the love it deserves and show off your handiwork for all to admire!
