When you first buy your garden furniture and set it all up in the garden, it will look resplendent. Keeping it like that, however, is another story entirely. As the seasons turn, the weather will play a big part in how your favourite garden pieces look – even a year from now; there could be signs of damage.
Rusted metal, mildew on fabric, weather-beaten wood – it’s all very common. But with a little care and attention, there’s no reason why you can’t keep your garden gear looking fab – and almost as good as new. Ready to learn how to keep your outdoor furniture in tip top shape? Let’s take a closer look.
Treat everything
First of all, when you are buying your garden furniture, it’s worth paying a little extra to have it treated. Manufacturers tend to do this on luxury items anyway – you can find more from Bridgman here about the importance of durability – but ensure that everything has some protection. While it won’t keep your furniture looking brand new, it a proper treatment will certainly last several years before you need to top up – or replace your garden set.
Follow the rules
OK, so this might sound obvious, but please read the care instructions on your new furniture! So many people fail to do this basic task and end up disappointed when they make a complaint. Failing to follow the instructions can void any guarantee in some scenarios, so it’s easy to see how important it is to read the guidelines.
General cleaning
It’s not hard to clean your furniture properly. The most important part is to give your pieces a brush with a soft-bristled broom before you start any washing. It will remove any loose debris that could cause you a problem or two when you introduce any water. Once it is clear of cobwebs, dust, and loose debris, you can start giving your furniture a gentle cleanse. Avoid using harsh cleaning products – especially on wood. The chemicals within can often cause damage, even if the wood has been treated properly.
Mould and rust
Look out for signs of mould on any furniture made from organic materials such as wood or wicker. It’s the same principle for rust on metal. Both can be the start of a process that could end in severe damage to your lovely furniture and needs to be tackled sooner rather than later.
Invest in some good covers
If you spend a small fortune on beautiful garden furniture, expect to pay a little more to protect it. Good covers will protect your pieces during inclement weather and the wetter, colder seasons. You could store it away during the harsher seasons, of course – but if you don’t have space or time, then covers will give your gear a lot of protection from the elements. Don’t forget, even during the warmer parts of the year; the sun can do a lot of damage. So keep those covers at hand and give your furniture the protection it deserves all year round.
