We’re anxiously anticipating a heatwave this weekend. So, with temperatures set to reach at least 20 degrees (hey, that’s high for us), a lot of us are already planning for outdoor gatherings under the warming sun. If you intend on spending a considerable amount on your outdoor set (or you already have), you’ll want it to last for as long as possible. While some garden furniture has weather-resistant qualities, it’s still important to know how to properly care for yours to keep it looking its best for as long as possible. In this EZ Living Furniture blog, you’ll learn the 5 best ways to prolong the life of your garden furniture.

1. Invest In Quality Materials

The best way to ensure that your furniture has a long life is to invest in quality materials from the very beginning. Knowing what does and doesn’t stand the test of time is a sure-fire way to get the most out of your outdoor set. You should always aim to prioritise furniture crafted from quality materials like synthetic rattan, teak, cedar, aluminium, and iron. These are known for their amazing ability to withstand moisture, sunlight, and pests.

Alba Pink Outdoor Dining Chairs At EZ Living Furniture.

2. Establish A Regular Cleaning Regime

Regardless of the material you choose, cleaning is always going to be a part of its maintenance. Not only will it keep it looking great but it will also extend the item’s lifespan. Generally, when in constant use throughout the summer months, a weekly wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that is needed to remove any surface dirt. Try to schedule a more thorough cleaning session 2-4 times a year too! This cleaning method will vary depending on the material, so we always recommend referring to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any potential damage. We have listed some cleaning tips below that will also help.

Wooden Garden Furniture: Use a stiff brush to remove any debris once a year. Follow this up with a wash with warm soapy water and allow it to dry fully. We suggest carrying this task out on a warm day. Most woods are vulnerable to sunlight and moisture so it’s important not to soak the wood during this cleaning process.

Synthetic Rattan Garden Furniture: There is very little cleaning required with synthetic rattan. If you are looking for a low-maintenance material for your garden furniture, this one is for you. It’s stylish, boasts a natural appearance, and is unaffected by sun, rain, and UV rays. For general cleaning, all that is needed is a soft sponge and some warm soapy water.

Plastic Garden Furniture: Plastic is incredibly durable and like synthetic rattan, all you’ll need is a soft sponge and a bucket of warm soapy water to effectively clean it.

Metal Garden Furniture: Clean the surface of metal furniture by using a non-abrasive sponge and some warm soapy water. If left outside, metal can rust over time, if this does occur, you can remove any loose rust with a wire brush or some sandpaper.

EZ Tip: Read product labels to understand the best cleaning regime for the item in question. If there aren’t any accompanying cleaning tips available for your item, always err on the side of caution and test any cleaning products or chemicals on an inconspicuous area of the item first to see if any discolouration or damage occurs.

Garden Shed.

3. Decide On Suitable Storage

Even though some materials are resistant to rain, sun, and UV rays, it is still advisable that you store them away when not in regular use. It stands to reason that any item protected from the elements is going to last longer and look better than those exposed. If you have a covered patio that you plan on keeping your outdoor set on temporarily, all you really need to think about caring for is any attachable cushions. We always suggest storing cushions and cushion covers indoors when not in use to avoid any mould from developing as a result of wet conditions. If you don’t happen to have a covered outdoor area for your garden items, you will need to invest in suitable storage for them i.e. a shed or garage.

Ashbury outdoor firepit set at EZ Living Furniture.

4. Prioritise Protective Covers

Protective covers are invaluable when it comes to caring for your outdoor furniture. Relatively inexpensive, they can shield your set from the rain, sun, and UV rays. Covers can prevent fading, rust, and deterioration from occurring, which ultimately prolongs the lifespan of your furniture. For maximum protection, make sure you invest in a cover designed specifically for the garden set you have. Here at EZ Living Furniture, we have accompanying waterproof covers for many of our outdoor furniture ranges.

Alhambra Parasol at EZ Living Furniture.

5. Use A Shade

If you don’t have protective covers at your disposal, one of the best ways to look after your outdoor set is to keep them in the shade when not being used. To protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays, we suggest investing in a stylish gazebo or parasol. Not only will this maintain your items and keep them looking fantastic for longer, but you’ll also save your skin from the sun simultaneously. Our Alhambra Gazebo, Murcia Parasol, and Seville Parasol make the perfect addition to any outdoor space.

Now that you have all of the essential tips needed to purchase and maintain the look and functionality of your garden furniture, all you need to do now is decide on the best set for you!

Browse our full range of garden furniture here.

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