Cleaning Tips for Resin Wicker & Plastic Deck Furniture

Taking care of synthetic deck furniture

Plastic is lightweight, fade-resistant and can take on many different shapes, textures and styles. It also does not require paint or sealants used by other materials. That makes this synthetic polymer easy to maintain and a great inexpensive option for backyard furniture. However, caring for and learning how to clean outdoor plastic furniture depends on the form it takes.

Sticky spills and drips like tree sap may require commercial products (e.g. Goo Gone), but rubbing alcohol will suffice in many cases. Regardless of the solution you choose, it’s important that you immediately rinse these agents away once you’ve cleaned the problem areas. Extended exposure to the chemicals in some products can degrade and fade plastic, and shorten the aesthetic lifespan of your patio furniture. This section of our maintenance guide references the two most common forms of synthetic garden furniture and how to clean them. It’s also import to keep all exposed furniture dry to prevent mold and mildew.

All-Weather Wicker – Cleaning woven resin furniture

In the past, natural, rattan or painted white wicker furniture was used primarily for indoor or porch seating where there was at least some protection from the elements. That was needed because organic materials were used to make the weave. Contemporary resin wicker from brands like Lloyd Flanders, however, provides all of the aesthetic qualities of a natural weave without the vulnerability to rain, sleet and snow [Raycheva & Angelova 2017]. Cleaning the nooks and crannies in intricate resin wicker patio furniture takes a little effort.

How to clean outdoor wicker furniture

1. Remove all pillows and cushions
2. Use a soft-bristled brush to get rid of superficial debris
3. Any additional leaves, twigs, soil or other material that may have become lodged in the weave can usually be taken care of using a vacuum with a small brush attachment
4. If you still have fine debris lodged in deep or intricate weaves, you can employ a high-pressure washer set at a low or moderate level
5. Once the wicker is free of superficial dirt, use the hand brush with mild household dish soap and lukewarm water to gently scrub the surface clean of any stains or coatings from pollen, berries, bird droppings and general grime
6. Rinse the woven material well to ensure that no soapy residue remains
7. Air dry the furniture in the shade if possible

Molded Resin – Simple steps for keeping plastics clean

Pool furniture made from plastic or molded resin is relatively low-maintenance and lightweight but tends to get dirty. In addition to the normal dirt and grime from everyday outdoor usage, plastic tables and chairs degrade in direct sunlight and often develop a chalky finish. Consequently, you have to do a few extra steps to clean plastic furniture and make it look new.

Preventing chalky build-up on plastic outdoor pieces

1. Brush the surface free from debris
2. Create a simple mixture of water and mild dishwashing soap
3. Dip a sponge, soft-bristled brush or cloth into the soapy water and wipe down the furniture
4. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and rub down the plastic to clean the chalky finish
5. Rinse out the sponge and repeat the process until you’ve covered the entire piece
6. Rinse the furniture off with clean water
7. Dry it with a towel or in the sun
8. Restore the plastic’s shine by applying automotive paste wax with a rag
9. Let it air dry for roughly 5 minutes
10. Buff it with a soft cloth

Resist the temptation to use steel wool or scouring powder to remove spills or stains, as these abrasives will scratch the plastic’s surface.

Tabletops differ from furniture frames and bodies

Taking care of the frames and body structure of outdoor seating can be challenging. Designs feature curves and angles with intricate textures that can trap dirt and debris. Tabletops are available in additional materials with different cleaning techniques. The next section of our guide reviews a few high-end options and how to keep them in tip-top shape.

Guide Sections

Patio Furniture Cleaning & Care Guide

How to Clean Teak, Eucalyptus & Other Outdoor Wood Furniture

Caring for Metal Patio Furniture – Aluminum, Steel & Wrought Iron

Maintaining Outdoor Tabletops from HPL to Tempered Glass

How to Clean Outdoor Cushion Fabric & Synthetic Mesh Slings

Keep Pests Like Insects, Birds & Rodents Off Deck Furniture

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References

• Raycheva, R., & Angelova, D. (2017). Woven furniture design: in search of form and texture. Pro Ligno, 13(4).