5 tips for maintaining your garden furniture

Summer is the perfect time to relax in your garden with a cold drink and some delicious snacks, and what’s better than doing that while sitting on comfortable garden furniture?

But if you want to make the most of your summer relaxation time, it’s important to take care of your furniture so that it lasts for years.

In this post, I’ve collated my top five tips on how to maintain your garden furniture. Follow these tips and your furniture and garden will stay looking great all season long!

1. Clean your furniture regularly

Garden furniture can be a great addition to any outdoor space, providing a place to relax, entertain guests, or simply enjoy the outdoors. However, it can quickly become dirty and discoloured if it is not properly cared for. To keep your furniture looking its best, it is important to clean it on a regular basis.

Depending on the material, you may be able to simply hose down the furniture with water. For more stubborn dirt and grime, you may need to use a mild detergent or soap. Once you have cleaned the furniture, be sure to rinse it completely to remove any residual soap or detergent.

2. Apply a sealant to protect the wood

If you have wooden garden furniture, it’s important to protect it from the elements so it doesn’t rot. A sealant can help to create a barrier against water damage, rot, and UV radiation.

Applying a sealant is a simple process, and it only needs to be done once every few years.

First, clean the surface of the wood with soapy water and a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. Allow the wood to dry. Then, apply the sealant with a paintbrush or roller, working in long strokes.

Finally, allow the sealant to dry for 24 hours before using the furniture. By taking these simple steps, you can help to extend the life of your wooden garden furniture.

3. Store your furniture in a dry place during autumn and winter

As the temperature starts to drop in the autumn or winter, it’s important to think about how you’ll protect your garden furniture from the colder, wetter weather.

If you don’t have a shed or garage, consider storing your furniture in a dry, covered place such as a covered porch or deck. You can also cover furniture with tarpaulins or plastic sheeting to help keep them dry.

Be sure to bring cushions and other removable items inside, as they are more likely to suffer damage from damp and cold. With a little bit of preparation, you can keep your garden furniture in good condition all winter long.

4. Take care while moving furniture around

If you’re anything like me, you’ll get fed up of the layout of your garden and end up moving your furniture around, but it can be easily damaged if you’re not careful. Whether you’re moving it to reposition your deck chairs or to clear away leaves, take care to lift rather than drag furniture to avoid scratching or denting the surface. If possible, use furniture covers to protect delicate finishes from weather damage.

5. Repair any damage as soon as possible

Your outdoor items can be easily damaged by weather and wear and tear. To keep it looking its best, it’s important to repair any damage to your furniture as soon as possible. A small chip in the paintwork can quickly turn into a large crack or rotting of the wood, and a loose screw can quickly become a dangerous safety hazard. By repairing garden furniture promptly, you can prevent further damage and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can keep your garden furniture looking its best for years to come. Whether you’re cleaning, sealing, or storing your furniture, a little bit of care can go a long way. And if you do happen to damage your furniture, don’t hesitate to repair it promptly to prevent further damage. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy your furniture for many years to come.