How to Clean Outdoor Furniture: The Complete Seasonal Guide

Outdoor furniture takes a beating — sun, rain, wind, pollen, bird droppings, and general weathering all take their toll. Regular cleaning keeps it looking great, extends its lifespan, and makes it more enjoyable to use. This guide covers how to clean every type of outdoor furniture, from quick maintenance to seasonal deep cleaning.

What You'll Need

CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner (26 oz Spray) — multi-surface formula designed specifically for outdoor furniture; removes dirt, mildew, and weathering stains
Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-pack)
Soft-bristle brush or scrub brush
Garden hose
Mild dish soap and warm water (for lighter cleaning)
White vinegar (for mildew and mineral deposits)

General Outdoor Furniture Cleaning Method

Remove cushions and set aside
Brush off loose dirt, leaves, and debris with a dry brush
Spray CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner over the furniture surface
Let sit for 2–3 minutes to penetrate dirt and mildew
Scrub with a soft-bristle brush, paying attention to joints, crevices, and textured surfaces
Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose
Allow to dry completely in the sun before replacing cushions

Cleaning by Material

Plastic and Resin Furniture

The most low-maintenance outdoor material. Spray with CLR Outdoor Cleaner, scrub, and rinse. For yellowed white plastic, mix 1 part bleach with 4 parts water, apply with a brush, let sit 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse thoroughly. Wear gloves when using bleach.

Aluminum Furniture

Lightweight and rust-resistant. Clean with CLR Outdoor Cleaner or mild soap and water. For oxidation (white chalky film), scrub with a paste of cream of tartar and water. Rinse and dry. Apply car wax annually to protect the surface.

Wrought Iron Furniture

Heavy and durable but prone to rust. Clean with mild soap and water using a soft brush. Dry immediately and thoroughly. Inspect for rust spots — treat with a rust remover and touch up with rust-inhibiting paint. Apply paste wax annually for protection.

Teak and Hardwood Furniture

Naturally weather-resistant but requires periodic care to maintain appearance. Clean with mild soap and a soft brush, scrubbing in the direction of the grain. Rinse and allow to dry. Apply teak oil or a UV-protective wood sealer annually to maintain color and prevent cracking.

Wicker and Rattan (Synthetic)

Outdoor wicker is almost always synthetic resin — very water-tolerant. Scrub with CLR Outdoor Cleaner or soapy water using a brush to get into the weave. Rinse thoroughly with a hose and allow to dry in the sun.

Fabric Cushions

Remove covers if possible and machine wash on gentle with cold water. For non-removable covers, scrub with a mild soap solution and rinse with a hose. Stand upright to dry completely before storing or using — damp cushions develop mildew quickly.

Removing Mildew from Outdoor Furniture

Mildew is common on outdoor furniture, especially in humid climates.

Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle
Spray onto mildewed areas and let sit 10–15 minutes
Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly
For stubborn mildew on plastic or resin: use a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon per quart of water)
The CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner also targets mildew effectively

Seasonal Cleaning Schedule

Spring (opening): Full deep clean before the season begins; inspect for damage, rust, or mildew from winter storage
Monthly during season: Quick wipe-down and spot cleaning
After storms: Rinse off debris and dry thoroughly
Fall (closing): Full deep clean before storing; apply protective treatments; store cushions indoors

Pro Tips

Clean outdoor furniture on a cloudy day or in the shade — cleaners dry too fast in direct sun, leaving residue
Always rinse thoroughly — soap and cleaner residue left on outdoor furniture attracts more dirt
Store cushions indoors during rain and off-season — this dramatically extends their life
Use furniture covers when not in use to reduce cleaning frequency

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pressure washer on outdoor furniture?

A pressure washer on a low setting works well for plastic, resin, and metal outdoor furniture. Avoid pressure washing natural wood (can raise the grain and cause damage), wicker (can break fibers), and fabric cushions. Always keep the nozzle moving and maintain a safe distance.

How do I get rid of green algae on outdoor furniture?

Green algae grows in damp, shaded conditions. Spray with undiluted white vinegar or a diluted bleach solution, let sit 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse. CLR Outdoor Furniture Cleaner is also effective against algae and mildew.

How do I prevent outdoor furniture from fading?

UV exposure is the main cause of fading. Apply a UV-protective spray or sealant appropriate for your furniture material. Store furniture in the shade when possible, and use furniture covers when not in use. See our guide on protecting furniture from sun damage for more detail.

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