Guidelines for cleaning metal outdoor furniture frames
Metallic patio furniture looks amazing when new, but can become a point of embarrassment if neglected and allowed to rust or stain. Most frames can easily be cleaned using a common process but each metal has its characteristics and nuanced care. This section of our comprehensive looks at several commonly used metals and offers tips on maintaining them.
Generic metal cleaning steps
- Remove any upholstered cushions or decorative throw pillows
- Lightly spray the metal outdoor furniture frames with a garden hose to wash away the most significant pieces of dirt and debris
- Wipe the metallic surfaces down using a soft cloth soaked in soapy water
- Rinse off the cloth and repeat wiping with clean water
- Dry with a microfiber or low-abrasion cloth
Be sure to pay attention to the underside as well as any joints. Avoid using acid, solvent and alcohol-based cleansers, or abrasive wire brushes or pads that may scratch the surface.
Stainless Steel
Hairline brushed steel frames give outdoor tables and seating a sleek upscale look that looks amazing in a modern outdoor space. However, the slightest spot or discoloration can detract from the sophisticated appeal. Greasy hands and rainfall can result in dirty and spotted metal. While furniture made from 316 marine grade stainless steel will not rust, 304 and lesser grades that are not electrostatically polished are susceptible (especially in salt air environments) [Kain 1984]. Fortunately, there are simple remedies for all of these issues to keep your stainless steel outdoor furniture in good shape.
Miscellaneous cleaning
- Greasy Fingerprints & Smudges – Rub white vinegar on the area using a damp soft cloth and rinse clean once the blemishes are gone
- Water Marks – Perform a basic cleaning, wipe any excess water from the surface and let it air dry in the shade
- Rust & Corrosion (a.k.a. Tea Staining) – Lightly scrub the surface (in the direction of the grain) with a paste of baking powder (not abrasive baking soda) and water using a soft-bristled brush, and rinse clean with fresh water afterward
Cleaning hard water stains (calcium or lime) off steel
Water with a high mineral content can leave a chalky white residue on metal over time. Removing these unsightly stains takes a little extra work.
- Mix a solution of distilled white vinegar and water (25% vinegar for stainless steel and 50% for galvanized steel)
- Apply the solution to the metal with a spray bottle or gently rub it in using a soft cloth
- Rinse a cloth with warm water and wring it out
- Wipe the vinegar solution off with a damp cloth
- Wipe the surface with a dry cloth
Manufacturer Video Tip – Stainless Steel
Galvanized Steel
A zinc oxide layer protects this matte gray metal from corrosion, but that coating wears down eventually.
Slow the degrading of the zinc oxide layer
You can slow the degradation by cleaning galvanized steel regularly. Using hot water and mild dish soap, scrub the surface in small circular strokes with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the surface with water and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
Neutralizing alkaline deposits on galvanized steel
Galvanized steel may become cloudy and dull over time due to alkaline build-up. This accumulation can also break down the layer of zinc oxide that helps protect the metal from corrosion. To restore galvanized steel’s original finish and maintain its protective layer, there’s an easy DIY solution.
- Mix a solution of 33% baby powder and 67% milk
- Apply the solution to the metallic surface with the toothbrush using small circular strokes
- Rinse with clean water
- Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth
Powder-Coated Aluminum
Aluminum is easy to work with and can be used to create a myriad of interesting patio furniture designs. Though strong and lightweight, it’s more susceptible to denting than other metals. Be careful when moving aluminum patio furniture for cleaning or storage. Dents compromise the strength and diminish the protective integrity of any coating.
Powder-coated aluminum patio furniture tends to get scuffed in high-traffic outdoor areas. Marks from shoes, tools, toys and lawnmowers should be removed before general cleaning. Non-abrasive liquid cleaners will usually do the trick. Gently rub the cleanser onto any scuff using a cloth and water. It may take a few attempts, but most scuffs should come out pretty easily.
If the original powder coating has a gloss finish, you can retain the shine by applying baby oil or car wax. Scratches can be mended using touch-up kits often available through manufacturers, or spray a clear coat to protect the exposed metal.
Manufacturer Video Tip – Aluminum
Wrought Iron
Some wrought iron patio furniture has intricate textures with various nooks and crannies. This makes them more difficult to keep clean than other metal patio chairs and tables.
Cleaning dust from wrought iron patio furniture
They tend to collect dust, so vacuum using a small brush attachment to remove as much loose dirt as possible. Follow the basic steps for cleaning metals, using a narrow nylon scrub brush or toothbrush on tight curves and crevices.
Caring for wrought iron with peeling paint or corrosion spots
If your wrought iron balcony furniture has rust or chipped paint, you’ll need to get rid of that before cleaning.
- Run a paint scraper over the surface to dislodge the largest pieces
- Scrub it with a wire brush to remove smaller paint flakes and spots of rust
- Use sandpaper to remove whatever rust remains and smooth out any irregularities in the painted surface
- Perform a thorough cleaning
- Repaint or reseal the metal
It’s important to repaint or reseal wrought iron soon after loose paint and rust are removed. If left exposed, the iron will quickly rust and degrade. Use a rust-proof primer before applying a few light coats of durable enamel paint. If the pieces are ornate, it may be easier to use spray paint than a brush. To help maintain the paint’s luster, polish the iron surfaces with automotive wax and buff them with a soft cloth when dry. Cleaning wrought iron and keeping it protected can be a challenge but the end result is goregeous.
Helpful Article
We suggest you read the section on metals in our Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide for a look at the pros and cons of particular metallic types.
Don’t forget about synthetic materials
Don’t get me wrong, wood and metal frames are important. They’re literally the framework on which patio furniture is constructed. But the rest of the body can’t be overlooked. The next section of our guide explores all-weather wicker and plastics used to shape outdoor furnishings.
Guide Sections
References
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