how to remove mildew from lawn furniture

4 min read 23-01-2025

how to remove mildew from lawn furniture

Summer is a time for relaxation and outdoor gatherings. But after a season of rain and humidity, your lovely patio furniture might be showing some signs of wear. Mildew, that unsightly green or gray fuzz, is a common problem for outdoor furniture made of various materials. Luckily, removing mildew is often easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the best methods for cleaning mildew from your lawn furniture, regardless of the material. Learning how to remove mildew efficiently protects your investment and keeps your outdoor space looking its best.

Identifying Mildew on Your Lawn Furniture

Before you start cleaning, it's important to accurately identify mildew. Mildew appears as a fuzzy, often greenish-gray growth, commonly found in damp or shaded areas. It often has a musty odor. If you suspect mildew, avoid touching it with your bare hands, as it can irritate the skin. Knowing what to look for will help you target your cleaning efforts effectively.

Gather Your Supplies: What You'll Need

Before tackling that mildew, gather your cleaning supplies. The specific materials you'll need will depend on your furniture's material, but here's a general list:

Cleaning solution: This could be a mixture of water and bleach, a commercial mildew remover, or a natural solution like white vinegar.
Scrub brush: Choose a brush with stiff bristles suitable for your furniture's material; avoid anything too abrasive that could scratch the surface. A soft-bristled brush might be better for delicate materials.
Garden hose or bucket of water: For rinsing the furniture after cleaning.
Protective gloves: Always wear gloves to protect your hands from cleaning solutions.
Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from splashing solutions.
Old towels or rags: For wiping down the furniture.

Cleaning Mildew from Different Materials

The cleaning method will vary depending on your lawn furniture material. Here's a breakdown by material:

How to Remove Mildew from Wood Lawn Furniture

Wood furniture requires a gentle approach to avoid damage.

Mild Solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected areas, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly with water and let it air dry completely.
Bleach Solution (use with caution): For stubborn mildew, you can try a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. Apply carefully, let it sit for a few minutes (never longer than 10!), scrub, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first. Bleach can damage wood if left on too long. After cleaning, consider applying a wood sealant to protect against future mildew growth.

How to Remove Mildew from Wicker Lawn Furniture

Wicker is more delicate than wood, requiring a gentler touch.

Vinegar Solution: The vinegar solution mentioned above is a safe and effective option for wicker furniture. Again, allow sufficient time for the solution to penetrate before scrubbing gently.
Baking Soda Paste: For tougher stains, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the mildew, let it dry, and then scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.

How to Remove Mildew from Metal Lawn Furniture

Metal furniture is generally more resistant to mildew.

Bleach Solution: A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water) is generally effective on metal. Apply, let it sit for a short time (test an inconspicuous area first!), scrub, rinse, and dry completely.
Commercial Cleaner: Many commercial cleaners are designed for metal furniture and can effectively remove mildew. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

How to Remove Mildew from Plastic Lawn Furniture

Plastic is typically easy to clean.

Soap and Water: Often, a simple solution of mild dish soap and water is sufficient. Scrub the affected areas and rinse thoroughly.
Bleach Solution (Use Cautiously): For stubborn mildew, you can use a diluted bleach solution (as mentioned above), but test a small area first. Some plastics may be damaged by bleach.

How to Remove Mildew from Fabric Lawn Furniture Cushions

Fabric cushions require extra care.

Washing Machine: If the cushions' covers are removable and machine-washable, wash them according to the care instructions. Add a bit of bleach to the wash cycle if needed.
Spot Cleaning: For spot cleaning, use a mixture of water and mild detergent or a commercial fabric cleaner. Apply the cleaner, gently scrub, and rinse thoroughly. Allow the cushions to air dry completely.

Preventing Mildew Growth

After cleaning, take steps to prevent mildew from returning:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your furniture regularly, especially after rain or periods of high humidity. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth will prevent mildew from taking hold.
Proper Storage: During the off-season, store your furniture in a dry, well-ventilated area. Covering it with a waterproof cover can also help.
Air Circulation: Ensure proper air circulation around your furniture to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid overcrowding your patio or placing furniture in constantly shaded areas.
UV Protection: Consider using UV-resistant covers or treatments to protect your furniture from sun damage, which can make it more susceptible to mildew.

When to Call a Professional

If you've tried these methods and the mildew persists, or if your furniture is severely damaged, it's best to consult a professional cleaning service. They may have access to more powerful cleaning solutions and specialized techniques.

By following these steps, you can keep your lawn furniture clean, mildew-free, and looking its best for years to come. Remember, prevention is key! Regular cleaning and proper storage will minimize the risk of mildew growth, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest.