Your outdoor furniture may be designed to handle the elements, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free! By regularly cleaning your patio furniture and by taking preventative measures to protect it from the elements whenever possible, you can greatly extend its usable life.

Understanding the risks posed to outdoor furniture in Venice, FL

To understand how best to protect your outdoor furniture, it’s important to know the risks that are inherent to any furniture placed outside.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can fade materials and cause fabric to break down over an extended period of time. If fabric or cushions are exposed to dirt, they could get moldy. It’s important to either vacuum or dust your outdoor cushions to prevent mold from forming.

Clean your outdoor furniture in Venice, FL
Cleaning your outdoor furniture is a great way to help it last longer. Spills can happen during backyard barbecues, and dirt and grime will build up throughout the season, so cleaning helps them stay fresh and avoid unnecessary deterioration.

The cleaning methods you use depend on the kind of materials the furniture is made out of. Most patio furniture these days is designed with fabric made for the purpose of sitting outdoors. However, even those fabrics will stain, and quick-dry foam could break down if you do not act quickly to clean up messes and spills. Usually, a soap and water mixture will be best for cleaning outdoor fabrics, but it’s a good idea to check manufacturer instructions.

Wicker resin is easy to clean if you wipe up spills right away and focus on washing them occasionally. Avoid the use of any abrasive cleaners, as these could scratch the surface.

Protecting your outdoor furniture

Patio covers and awnings give your furniture some protection from the sun and rain, as do umbrellas. But the best, most reliable solution is to purchase covers for your outdoor furniture. If you are away from your home for a period of time, take the cushions off and store them inside. The covers will then protect the frames and when you return, all you need to do is take off the covers and put on the cushions. Voila! You are all set. The furniture covers (NOT the cushions) can then be washed in the washing machine to go back for the next time.

For more information about cleaning and protecting your outdoor furniture in Venice, FL, contact the team at Rattan Wicker & Cane.

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