Chat with us, powered by LiveChat
Outdoor Living Banner Outdoor Living Banner

Outdoor Furniture Care Guide

Important advice on caring for your outdoor furniture

Our outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements while celebrating the natural beauty of its materials. With thoughtful care and maintenance, each piece will continue to look its best for years to come.

Understanding natural materials

Wood is a living, breathing material, and its unique characteristics are part of what makes every piece special.

  • Subtle variations in colour and grain are natural and to be expected.
  • Knots, burrs, and irregular grain patterns reflect the individuality of the timber.
  • No two pieces are identical.

Over time, timber will naturally soften and deepen in tone, or weather to a soft silver-grey patina if left untreated outdoors.

Natural movement and variations

As wood responds to temperature and humidity changes:

  • Small hairline cracks or micro splits may appear.
  • Slight movement along joints or panels can occur.
  • Expansion and contraction is normal and does not affect durability.

Fillers may be used to minimise the appearance of natural lines while maintaining strength.

Measurements

Wood is a natural material so please allow up to 3cm variance in measurements.

General care and cleaning

Regular care helps preserve both the appearance and longevity of your furniture.

Routine cleaning

  • Dust regularly with a soft cloth.
  • Clean using a mild solution of warm water and gentle washing-up liquid.
  • Use a soft sponge or cloth, avoid abrasive materials.
  • Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

Important:

Avoid harsh chemicals and pressure washers, as they can damage finishes and materials.

Material-specific cleaning

Wooden furniture

Use a mild cleaning solution and soft cloth to remove dirt and algae. For deeper care and restoration, explore our wooden furniture care products.

Woven (Faux Rattan) furniture

Clean with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry to prevent residue marks. No specialist treatment is typically required, making rattan one of the easiest materials for low-maintenance outdoor furniture care.

Metal furniture

Clean with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. Avoid abrasive tools that could damage protective coatings.

Protection and maintenance

Wooden furniture maintenance

Most wooden furniture is pre-treated and ready for outdoor use.

To maintain its original appearance:

  • Lightly sand the surface.
  • Reapply protective coatings when needed.

Enhance longevity with:

Additional Protection:

  • Store in a cool, dry place during harsh weather.
  • Use Outdoor Furniture Covers when not in use.
  • Periodically check and tighten fixings.

Protecting metal from rust

Even coated can develop rust over time.

After cleaning:

  • Apply a rust-resistant primer.
  • Add a protective wax layer.
Cushions and upholstery care

Outdoor cushions are designed to handle light moisture but should not be left exposed for long periods. This also applies to furniture with rope trims.

Storage:

  • Store indoors overnight or during wet weather.
  • Outdoor Cushion Storage Bags
  • Always ensure cushions are fully dry before placing in storage bags.

Cleaning and maintenance:

  • Brush or lightly vacuum regularly.
  • Clean according to care labels.
  • Blot spills immediately - do not rub.

For best results, use our Complete Care Kit for Textiles, Rope & Fabrics.

Important:

Storing damp cushions can lead to mildew, odours, and fabric deterioration. This also applies to furniture with rope trims.

Storage and seasonal care

Proper storage is one of the most important ways to extend the life of your furniture.

  • Always clean all furniture types thoroughly before storing.
  • Ensure every surface is fully dry before placing in storage or under covers.
  • Store in a dry, well-ventilated space (avoid heated environments).

If storing outdoors, use Breathable Furniture Covers.

Important:

Covering or storing damp furniture can trap moisture, leading to mould, mildew, unpleasant odours and damage to both materials and finishes.

Year-round use

Furniture can remain outdoors throughout the year, but:

  • Expect natural ageing and weathering.
  • Protective storage will help maintain its original appearance.

See our protective storage covers.

Placement, assembly and handling

Positioning

  • Place furniture on a level surface.
  • Use adjustable feet or wedges if needed for stability.

Moving furniture

  • Always lift - never drag.
  • Use two people for heavier items

Assembly and maintenance

  • Assemble furniture in its intended location whenever possible.
  • Periodically check and tighten screws and fixings.

Everyday use considerations

  • Use coasters and placemats to prevent heat damage.
  • Avoid placing hot items directly on surfaces.
  • Be cautious with rubber-based accessories that may mark finishes.
  • Rotate decorative items occasionally to ensure even ageing from sunlight.
  • Avoid sitting on edges and arms.
  • Do not stack heavier pieces.

Deeper cleaning and care

  • Clean thoroughly before seasonal storage or after winter.

For removable elements (e.g. glass tabletops):

  • Disassemble carefully.
  • Clean all surfaces.
  • Dry thoroughly before reassembling.

For specialist cleaning solutions see our furniture care range

We offer a range of specialist cleaning solutions and care products for wooden, fabric and rope outdoor furniture and accessories.

Hardwood Colour Restorer & Cleaner

Recommended use: Once a year (beginning of April)

To clean and restore discoloured, dark grey teak and hardwood. This water-based formula is a high-concentration cleaner with added brightening ingredients to restore the original colour of new teak/hardwood.

  • Restores original teak/hardwood colour
  • Contains brightening ingredients
  • Prepares wood for further treatment
Shop Now
Hardwood Colour Protector - Honey Brown

Recommended use: Once a year (April)

An easy-to-apply protector that maintains a golden-brown colour for an extended period:

  • Lasts up to 4× longer than teak oil
  • Lasts up to 2× longer than teak sealers
  • Enhances hardwood with a more natural appearance
  • Helps maintain a rich, warm finish

For best results, follow with a teak/hardwood shield to help prevent stains.

Shop Now
Hardwood Water-Repellent Shield

Recommended use: Twice a year (April and October)

Provides water and dirt resistance while maintaining the natural grey patina of teak. This nearly invisible treatment helps prevent liquids (e.g. wine, coffee, oil) from penetrating the wood.

Benefits
  • Helps prevent stains while preserving the natural look
  • Maintains grey patina for longer
  • Allows moisture vapour transmission
  • Contains a mould & mildew inhibitor
  • Designed for deep penetration into dense, low-porosity wood
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor wooden furniture

For best results, follow with a teak/hardwood shield to help prevent stains.

Shop Now
Textile Stain Remover & Cleaner

Recommended use: As needed

Fabric, Textile & Rope Cleaner

Suitable for cushions, seating, rope, and parasol covers.

Regular cleaning (at least once per season) helps prevent dirt build-up and extends the life of outdoor furniture. This cleaner removes dirt and restores the appearance of fabrics and upholstery.

  • Revives the look of textiles and upholstery
  • Helps prolong the life of outdoor fabrics
  • Suitable for a range of materials including rope and cushions
Shop Now
Textile Water-Repellent Protector

Recommended use: Twice a year (April and July)

Restores water repellency to outdoor fabrics such as cushions, seating, rope, and parasols. Helps keep fabrics looking new for longer.

  • Restores water repellency
  • Helps maintain a clean, fresh appearance
  • Ideal for outdoor fabrics exposed to the elements
  • Recommended more frequently for heavily exposed areas
Shop Now
FAQs

How can I keep my furniture looking new?

  • Clean regularly
  • Use Protective Covers
  • Apply Wood Care Products
  • Store during harsh weather

Can outdoor furniture stay outside all year?

Yes, but using Breathable Covers will help prolong its lifespan and reduce maintenance.

How do I protect cushions when not in use?

Store them in Outdoor Storage Bags and keep them in a dry environment. This also applies to furniture with rope trims.

What should I use to clean wooden furniture?

A mild soap solution is sufficient, but for best results use our specialist Wood Care Products.

How do I prevent rust on metal furniture?

Keep it clean, dry, and protected with coatings.

Can I use a pressure washer

No. This can damage materials and protective finishes.