Outdoor Furniture Cleaning Guide (Plastic, Wood, Metal & Cushions) — Mebane, NC

Outdoor furniture in Mebane is exposed to pollen, humidity, mildew, and UV all year. Different materials need different cleaning approaches — and using the wrong method can ruin a $500 chair in one afternoon.

Plastic and Resin Furniture

Plastic patio furniture is the easiest to clean, but UV exposure causes fading and brittleness over time.

• Use mild dish soap and warm water
• A soft brush works for textured surfaces
• For mildew, a 10:1 water-to-bleach solution rinsed thoroughly
• Avoid high pressure — it scratches and pits the surface

Teak and Hardwood Furniture

Teak develops a beautiful gray patina over time, but mold can take over in our humid climate.

• Use a wood-safe oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate)
• Scrub gently with the grain
• Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely
• Apply teak oil annually to maintain color (optional)
• Never use chlorine bleach on wood — it bleaches unevenly

Aluminum and Wrought Iron

Metal furniture is durable but vulnerable to oxidation and rust.

• Soap, water, and a soft brush for routine cleaning
• Rust spots can be treated with a rust remover and touch-up paint
• Wax automotive products work great as a UV protectant
• Powder-coated finishes should be cleaned without abrasive pads

Cushions and Outdoor Fabrics

Sunbrella and similar outdoor fabrics resist mildew but still need attention.

• Vacuum first to remove pollen and debris
• Use a fabric-safe cleaner (or dish soap and water)
• Soft brush, then rinse with a hose
• Air dry completely before storing — moisture causes mildew fast in NC

When to Bundle With Pressure Washing

Many Mebane homeowners book a deck or patio cleaning and ask us to clean the furniture in the same visit. We can rinse, soft wash, and even relocate furniture as part of a deck or patio job. Call (907) 252-2285 to schedule.