Outdoor Furniture, Kitchens & Accessories
How to Clean Outdoor Furniture, Kitchens & Accessories with Unger
Whether you're entertaining guests or simply unwinding outside, a clean space helps you enjoy the moment. It feels good to sit back and relax in a space that’s fresh & welcoming, but between weather, foot traffic, pollen and everyday messes, outdoor living spaces can start to show the wear. Luckily, with a little TLC, refreshing your space is easier than you think. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can remove dirt and grime and bring back that just-like-new feeling.
Clean Outdoor Furniture the Right Way
Outdoor furniture comes in all shapes and materials—wood, wicker, metal, plastic, and glass. Each type deserves proper care to keep it looking great season after season.
Wrought-Iron & Plastic Furniture
Fill a bucket with mild soap and water - a simple dish detergent mixed with water for routine cleaning
Use a microfiber cloth or soft bristle brush to wash surface areas.
For rust spots or stuck on debris a scrub brush is recommended.
Rinse thoroughly and let air dry.
Wicker & Teak Furniture
Fill a bucket with a patio furniture cleaner (available at most home improvement stores).
Choose a soft bristle brush with flagged ends to capture dirt safely without scratching.
Rinse well with water and let air dry naturally.
Outdoor Cushions
Mix detergent with water in a bucket.
Use a soft bristled scrub brush. Rinse cushions with a hose. Stand cushions upright to dry.
How to Clean Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs can trap dirt, pollen, and mildew—especially after rain or heavy foot traffic. Clean them regularly to extend their life and restore vibrant colors.
Lay the rug flat on a clean, solid surface (deck, driveway, or patio).
Scrub using mild soap and water with a soft wash brush.
Rinse thoroughly to remove all residue.
Squeegee excess water off using a surface squeegee.
Hang over a railing or keep flat to dry completely before placing it back in your space.
How to Clean Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor cooking areas are magnets for grease, pollen, and food spills. Keep yours clean and ready for guests with these simple steps:
Wipe countertops and cabinets using a damp microfiber cloth
For glass or stainless steel, use a specialty glass & mirror cloth for a streak-free shine.
Use mild soap or all-purpose cleaner as needed.
Get into tight corners and grout lines with swivel grout brush.
Finish by wiping down with clean water or a fresh microfiber cloth.
How to Clean Outdoor Planters
Planters can grow more than just plants — they also harbor dirt, mildew, and hard water stains. Keep them tidy and plant-safe with this easy process:
Use a baking soda paste (baking soda + water) or a plant-friendly soap
Scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush
Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue
Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals — they can damage the planter and harm your plants
Clean at the start and end of each season to prevent long-term buildup
For empty planters, a DIY cleaner with diluted vinegar and water gives a deeper clean (just rinse well before replanting)
