Last Updated on April 19, 2017
Not every homeowner is fortunate to have a pool to relax in at the end of a hard day. Swimming pools can be a great escape where you can cool down in the heat of the day, or kick your feet up and relax in the cool evening hours. Pools can also be an attractive part of your landscape, and include a pool deck. Naturally, pool deck furniture is something a pool owner will want to have to accommodate their poolside activities. Although outdoor furniture is a good investment, it is always nice to save money. If your furniture has become brittle or worn out in the sun, refinishing may be the answer for you. DIY patio furniture restoration can save you as much as 30% to 70 % off of your replacement cost. There are many important things you can do to care for and maintain your pool deck furniture, including your lawn chairs.
Cleaning
You should check the manufacturer’s suggestions for cleaning before attempting to wash your pool deck furniture. Most poolside furniture can be cleaned with a mild detergent then power washed. If you don’t have a power washer, you can scrub your furniture with a soft brush and detergent then use the hose to rinse. In cases where mold is prevalent, you can use a bleach solution if it coincides with the manufacturer’s instructions. Fill a spray bottle with a solution of about one part bleach to two parts water. Spray it directly on the mold. After letting it sit for a few minutes, rinse the bleach-water off then dry your furniture in the sun. The sun helps to kill the mold. For cleaning outdoor cushions, you can use a cleaning mixture of 1 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent, 1 tablespoon of borax, and 1quart of warm water. Use a sponge to dip in the solution and gently scrub the cushions. Pay special attention to creases and crevices, using a spray bottle filled with the solution, if necessary. After sitting for about 15 minutes, hose off the cushions then set them on their side to dry in the sun. For a light cleaning, simply vacuum the cushions.
Storing
The most ideal storage solution to protect your outdoor furniture from the sun, rain, and winter months, is having a separate room in your home, or a space in your shed or garage. If you do not have the storage space, you may wish to invest in weatherproof furniture covers. Do not place your cushions in plastic bags for storage, since the plastic will not allow the cushions to breathe, causing mildew if moisture is present. Make sure you clean your furniture and let it dry completely before placing it in storage, to prevent mildew.
Repairing and Refinishing
Restoring your favorite poolside furniture is often times more economical than purchasing new furniture. Locate a reliable company that can accomplish the job and provide you with quality service in repairing your outdoor furniture.
Each piece of furniture may require different methods to clean and maintain, depending on the type of material it is made from. Regular cleaning and off-season storage can help preserve your pool deck furniture, and keep your investment lasting longer. With the proper care, you can have greater pleasure from your poolside furniture, and enjoy your swimming pool with greater fun and relaxation.
