Caring for your patio furniture

There are few things as lovely in the summer than relaxing in our gardens, hosting family BBQs or simply reading a good book. When we invest in garden furniture, we want to make sure it lasts more than one season, providing us with an outdoor space we can use year after year. Knowing how to properly maintain and care for our furniture is key in keeping it looking as good as new, especially when the weather is as it has been up and down! Here is our quick tips for keeping your outdoor furniture in tip top condition.

Metal Furniture

With the exception of aluminium, metal furniture is prone to rust, especially if left out during the wet and cold winter months. Keep dry with a waterproof cover, or store in a garage or shed. Rust can become a problem when paint begins to flake. Remedy this by sanding off the affected area and applying a coat of anti-rust paint. You can then top this off with standard metal paint to match the original colour. Even though aluminium doesn’t rust, it can change colour over time - this is completely harmless and does no damage to the furniture! Storing away and using weather covers will help you avoid this happening.

Rattan Furniture

Rattan furniture is woven from plastic, which makes it very easy to look after, requiring just soapy water for a wash every now and then. Avoid pressure washers or any harsh chemical cleaners, as these can damage the material. It’s easy for dirt to accumulate between the weaves, so it’s best to store somewhere cool and dry during the winter. This also prevents weathering and avoids the rattan from discolouring. Apart from this, your rattan furniture should provide you with a low maintenance and attractive option for your summer entertaining.