Get Your Patio Ready for the First Summer BBQ
As someone who loves winter, it’s always a little shocking to my system when the first hot days of the year arrive. But with now it’s June and I’m ready to embrace summer entertaining season. Last year we completely overhauled our deck furniture with a visit to Patio Place in Woburn, Massachusetts. We upgraded everything–from our dining table to our seating area and now it time to is welcome family and friends for that first deck dinner. Before we host our Father’s Day Brunch, we are going to do a quick clean up.
Our new furniture was a big investment and we want to enjoy it for years. I’ve employed a few simple maintenance steps to make sure our patio looks great and our guests have a comfortable place to relax.
Start with a Deep Clean
I had a nice sunny day last weekend to start the process. The first step is to do a thorough inspection. We stored our cushions in plastic bins and had furniture covers for all our tables and chairs. Thankfully the covers worked like a charm. But if you see dirt and debris, use a soft brush to remove loose dirt, leaves, pollen, and cobwebs that may have accumulated during the off-season.
The next step is a quick wipe down. For most outdoor furniture, a solution of mild dish soap and warm water works well. Prep a bucket and grab some soft non-abrasive cotton towels or rags. Wipe down frames paying special attention to armrests, tabletops, and other high-touch areas. Rinse thoroughly and allow everything to dry completely before replacing cushions.
Different materials require different care:
- Aluminum furniture is low maintenance and can usually be cleaned with soap and water.
- Wicker and woven furniture should be cleaned gently with a soft bristle brush to remove dirt trapped in crevices. If you have a portable cordless vaccuum, that’ll work too.
- Wood furniture benefits from a wood-specific cleaner and may require seasonal sealing depending on the material.
- Steel or iron furniture should be checked for signs of rust and treated promptly to prevent further damage.
Refresh Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor cushions take the brunt of the elements, so they deserve special attention. Ideally, you’ll have treated any stains when they happened last season, but if you notice stains, it’s time to tackle them. If you need to wash your cushions, pick a nice sunny day to do it. Remove cushion covers if possible and follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions and definitely air dry them. Allow cushions to air dry completely in a sunny, well-ventilated area before placing them back on furniture. Trapped moisture can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors. If there’s any shrinkage, it can get very difficult to get the cushions back on.
For cushions that cannot be machine washed, use a mixture of mild soap and water and gently scrub with a soft brush. I buy a few soft bristle tooth brushes when they are on sale from the grocery store to keep on hand for jobs like this.
How to Handle Stains
If you discover stains on your cushions, don’t panic. Most common outdoor stains can be treated successfully with a little patience.
For food and beverage spills, blot the area first and then clean with mild soap and warm water. For tougher stains, create a solution of one cup of water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first.
Mildew stains may require a specialized outdoor fabric cleaner. Follow product directions carefully and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric or fade colors. Sometimes a wash and then sun exposure will handle it–or it might be a lost cause.
For stubborn stains that won’t come out, consider replacing the cushion covers or investing in new cushions. Fresh cushions can instantly update the look of your outdoor space at a fraction of the cost of new furniture.
Protect Your Investment
Once your furniture is clean, take steps to keep it looking great all season long. Store cushions in a deck box or covered area during storms, and consider investing in quality furniture covers when pieces are not in use for extended periods.
Regular maintenance throughout the summer will prevent dirt and stains from becoming permanent. A quick weekly wipe-down can go a long way toward preserving the beauty of your outdoor living space.
At Patio Place at Ski Haus, you’ll find stylish, durable outdoor furniture and accessories designed to help families make the most of every summer gathering. With a little seasonal care and the right pieces in place, your patio can become the favorite gathering spot for every barbecue, celebration, and sunset conversation this season.
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