As the seasons change, many of us start thinking about how to spruce up our outdoor spaces for the warmer weather.
Pressure washers can be handy for tackling tough dirt on patios or decks, but there are certain items that should never face a pressure washer. Some garden furniture requires special care, and using high pressure might lead to unintended damage.
Let's explore which patio furniture is safe for pressure washing and what alternatives ensure your items stay in great condition.
Is It Safe to Use a Pressure Washer on Patio Furniture?
Pressure washers can effectively clean outdoor areas. However, certain types of garden furniture can sustain serious damage if subjected to high pressure.
Before firing up your washer, consider whether manual cleaning might be a better option.
Patio Furniture That Should Never Be Pressure Washed
While the allure of using a pressure washer to blast away dirt can be tempting, it’s typically not advisable for cleaning garden furniture.
“Using a pressure washer can harm the surface of patio furniture,” warns a garden expert. This is especially true for rattan and wooden pieces. “Even on a mild setting, the force can strip away the protective coating on these materials,” they add.
This removal of the outer layer not only alters the appearance of your furniture but can also compromise its durability against weather damage, particularly for softer woods like pine and cedar.
Additionally, stone furniture should also be kept away from pressure washers. Although they may seem dirty or mossy, cleaning them with high-pressure water can lead to damage.
“For stone tables and benches, a gentle brush with soap is the best approach,” the expert advises.
This principle applies to all wooden and stone outdoor furniture. The tried-and-true method of soapy water and a soft cloth is usually the most effective. Specialized products for outdoor furniture cleaning can also help, such as this non-abrasive cleaner from Walmart or this stone cleaner from Walmart.
Patio Furniture That Can Handle Pressure Washing
Metal garden furniture is generally much sturdier compared to rattan or wood. While soapy water and a brush work well, pressure washing can be necessary to eliminate tough stains and rust.
When using a pressure washer on metal furniture, start with a low setting and maintain a distance of at least 6 feet, gradually moving closer to find the optimal distance without risking damage.
However, avoid using pressure washers on antique or fragile metal items, as this could damage them. After washing and drying, a fresh coat of paint might be needed, such as this anti-rust paint from Walmart.
Durable plastic furniture is also suitable for pressure washing, which helps to keep it clean annually. As with metal, begin from a distance and adjust as needed to avoid any damage while cleaning.
While pressure washers can be effective for both metal and plastic, they often pose a risk of harm. If you're considering this method, it's wise to test a small area first to ensure it’s safe for your patio items.
FAQs
When Should You Clean Your Patio Furniture?
The ideal time to clean patio furniture is at the start of the growing season in spring when temperatures begin to rise. This ensures your furniture is spotless and ready for spring and summer enjoyment. Consider cleaning it again in the fall, just before storing it away or covering it. Always clean on mild, dry days, keeping soap away from gardens and grass.
While pressure washers can be useful for refreshing your patio, a classic approach with a scrubbing brush and warm, soapy water often yields the best results without damaging your furniture.
If spring cleaning is on your agenda, don’t forget to also refresh your outdoor rugs to keep your patio looking fabulous for social gatherings.
