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Quick Tip: Clean Outdoor Furniture On The Cheap

updated Jul 17, 2020
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(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

Outdoor furniture can take quite a beating. It might get hit with salty ocean air of the coasts, or be drenched in stagnant humidity in the Midwest, but no matter where you live, your outdoor furniture will need a hand staying clean. Sure, you can pressure wash it, but only if you have a driveway. So what about the folks who only have a terrace or balcony? Read on for our eco-friendly method using supplies you probably already have around the house!

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In our own home we’ve used this method several times with great success. In fact, it works well enough we use it just once a year in the Spring to keep things looking fresh and new. Here’s how:

Ingredients Needed:

  • 1/4 Cup Liquid Dish Soap (whatever you have on hand is fine)
  • 1 Cup Borax Washing Powder
  • 1/2 Cup Hydrogen Peroxide
  • 1 Gallon Warm Tap Water

    Directions: Mix all ingredients thoroughly and use a small scrub brush to give your pieces a once over. Rinse, and repeat if there are any repeat offending stains.

    Note: Peroxide can have an ill effect on a small portion of fabrics , although usually only when left on for a great length of time (think a few hours) and when used on those which aren’t meant for outdoor use. Make sure to work on one piece at a time, rinsing as you go, before moving onto the next piece to avoid any problems.

    We haven’t found a surface yet that this mixture can’t clean, although if you’re looking for more specific methods of cleaning your hardworking outdoor surfaces, check out these links for more information:

  • How To: Clean (Really Dirty) Outdoor Furniture
  • Sneak Peek: Outdoor Furniture Cleaning & Care

    (Images: Amazon.com & Planetsave)