Outdoor furniture in the Mid-Atlantic goes through a lot—pollen in spring, summer humidity, and fall debris. Whether you’re relaxing on a sunny deck or shaded patio, keeping your setup clean helps it last longer and keeps your outdoor space comfortable and inviting.

This guide walks you through how to clean outdoor furniture by material—cushions, covers, wood, metal, plastic, and wicker. You’ll also find the best outdoor furniture cleaners and simple maintenance tips to keep everything looking fresh all year long.

Essential Tools and Outdoor Furniture Cleaners to Keep on Hand

Having the right supplies makes cleaning faster and more effective—especially if your setup includes multiple materials.

Before getting started, gather these basics:

• Soft-bristle brush or sponge
• Microfiber cloths
• Garden hose with spray nozzle
• Bucket of warm water
• Protective gloves (optional: safety glasses if using vinegar or bleach)
• Spray bottle for DIY solutions

Recommended Cleaner Types

• Dish soap + water: Gentle and reliable.
• Vinegar + water: Great for mildew and odors.
• Oxygen bleach: Lifts deep stains from fabric and wood.
• Patio furniture cleaner: Best for metal or resin.
• Outdoor fabric cleaner: Designed for water- and UV-resistant materials.

Important: No matter which cleaner you use, always spot test on a small area first.

Bonus: DIY Outdoor Furniture Cleaner (Eco-Friendly)

• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tbsp dish soap
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• Optional: 5 drops lemon or lavender essential oil

Mix in a spray bottle and shake well. Safe for most surfaces and gentle on the environment.

Prep Tip: Move your furniture to a spot where you can spray it down without soaking anything else—like an open area of the patio or your driveway. Avoid cleaning directly on the lawn, since cleaners and runoff water could affect your grass.

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions and Furniture Covers

Outdoor cushions and covers attract pollen, mildew, and grime. Some covers are removable and machine-washable, while others require spot cleaning. Here’s how to clean each safely:

For removable covers:

• Check the care tag for instructions.
• Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
• Air dry to prevent shrinking or fabric breakdown.

For fixed cushions or non-washable covers:

• Shake off debris.
• Mix warm water with mild soap or use an outdoor fabric cleaner.
• Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge.
• Rinse thoroughly with a hose.
• Air dry in the sun to prevent mold.

Pro Tip: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your vinegar mix to boost mildew resistance and leave a fresh scent.

To keep cushions looking fresh, store them when not in use and apply a fabric protectant each season.

How to Clean Metal Patio Furniture and Prevent Rust

Metal patio furniture needs occasional upkeep. Here’s how to clean it effectively:

• Rinse with a hose to remove dust and debris.
• Wash with dish soap and warm water or a metal-specific patio furniture cleaner.
• For rust, scrub gently with white vinegar or fine steel wool. (Avoid harsh scrubbing on painted surfaces.)
• Rinse and dry completely.
• Apply car wax or silicone spray to protect the finish.
• Inspect joints seasonally for rust or loosening.

Pro Tip: Avoid cleaning metal furniture in direct sun—soap may dry too quickly and cause streaks.

How to Clean Outdoor Wood Furniture Without Damaging the Finish

To clean outdoor wood furniture without stripping its finish:

• Brush off dirt with a soft cloth or brush.
• Wash gently with warm soapy water in the direction of the grain.
• For mildew, use diluted vinegar or a wood-safe cleaner.
• Rinse with a light spray and dry completely.
• Apply wood oil or sealer to restore moisture resistance.

Clean wood at the start and end of each season, and use breathable covers when possible.

Seasonal Tip: Oil your furniture in spring and fall to help it withstand both heat and moisture.

How to Clean Plastic, Resin, and Wicker Patio Furniture

Plastic, resin, and wicker are low-maintenance but still benefit from regular cleaning. Here's how:

• Rinse with a hose to remove loose dirt.
• Wash with warm water and mild soap.
• For mildew, use a vinegar-water solution.
• Avoid bleach and abrasive cleaners.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Use soft brushes on wicker to avoid fraying. Apply UV protectant to plastic to reduce fading.

Eco Tip: Most vinegar-based solutions are biodegradable and won’t harm nearby plants.

How to Keep Outdoor Furniture Clean Year-Round

A simple routine can prevent buildup and extend the life of your furniture:

• Wipe down furniture every few weeks.
  
• Always let pieces dry before covering.
  
• Store cushions and fabrics during long rainy periods.
  
• Reseal wood and apply rust-preventative products as needed. If cold weather is on the horizon, check out our guide to prepping outdoor furniture for winter to protect your setup through the off-season.
  

Inspect seasonally for mildew, rust, or loose hardware.

Quick Reference Table: Outdoor Furniture Cleaning

Make the Most of Your Clean Outdoor Space

Your furniture’s looking great—now it’s time to elevate the space around it. From custom patios and cozy firepit lounges to full outdoor kitchens, we bring backyard dreams to life.

LiveWell Outdoors proudly serves homeowners in Maryland, D.C., and Northern Virginia with outdoor living spaces built for lasting beauty, comfort, and function.

Ready to transform your backyard? Schedule your free consultation today and let’s build something incredible together.