How to clean garden furniture?

Garden furniture is exposed to heavy wear throughout the year. Rain, sunlight and dirt can all cause it to lose its original appearance over time. With the right approach, this can be easily addressed. We find that many people begin with general cleaning products, but these do not always remove stubborn dirt effectively. By cleaning regularly and using a product suited to the material, garden furniture maintains its appearance for longer. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions beforehand to prevent damage.

HG solutions for cleaning garden furniture

For thorough and safe cleaning of garden furniture, we recommend products specifically developed for this purpose. Depending on the material and level of soiling, we offer the following solutions:

• HG garden furniture cleaner removes stubborn dirt from garden furniture made of plastic, aluminium, rattan (look‑alike), polyrattan, polywood and metal, among other materials. The product is suitable for virtually all material combinations.
• For greyed hardwood garden furniture, HG weathered wood restorer has been developed. This product restores hardwood to its original colour and cleanliness in one treatment, without the need for sanding.
• To maintain and protect hardwood furniture after cleaning, HG hardwood colour restorer can be applied. This deepens the natural colour and helps prevent greying caused by weather exposure.
• For periodic or intensive cleaning of hardwood, HG weathered wood restorer is recommended. This cleans deep into the pores without damaging the wood and is also suitable as a pre-treatment.

For more practical guidance and additional tips on cleaning garden furniture, refer to our dedicated cleaning guide. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult the manufacturer's maintenance advice beforehand.

Alternative solutions for cleaning garden furniture

Alongside specialist cleaning products, various household cleaning methods are often used. These solutions can help with light soiling, but they do not always deliver thorough or long-lasting results and are not suitable for every material.

• Green soap dissolved in warm water can be used to loosen surface dirt. Apply with a soft brush and always rinse thoroughly afterwards.
• A mixture of diluted white vinegar and water is sometimes used for deposits, but can cause discolouration on certain materials.
• Warm water with washing‑up liquid can help remove grease stains when applied gently and rinsed thoroughly.
• For wooden furniture, a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice is sometimes used, although this provides no long-term protection against greying.

Always test these methods on a small, inconspicuous area first. If you are unsure about the surface or result, it is advisable to use a product specifically developed for garden furniture.

Causes of soiled garden furniture

Garden furniture becomes soiled over time due to several factors. Understanding these helps with planning effective maintenance:

• Weather conditions such as rain, sun and wind cause dirt and deposits to accumulate. Covering or storing furniture during winter helps reduce this.
• Bird droppings, leaves and tree sap can cause staining and should be removed promptly.
• Damp conditions promote algae growth, especially when surfaces do not dry quickly.
• Food residue and spilled drinks can leave marks, particularly on porous materials such as wood.

By cleaning regularly and protecting furniture when not in use, you can maintain its condition and appearance for longer. Regular maintenance prevents dirt from becoming ingrained and extends the lifespan of your garden furniture. With proper care and the right cleaning products, your outdoor furniture will continue to look attractive and serve you well for many seasons to come. Remember that prevention is often better than cure, so consider protective covers during harsh weather conditions.