How To Clean Mildew Off Outdoor Furniture

Essential Aspects of How To Clean Mildew Off Outdoor Furniture

Mildew is a common problem for outdoor furniture, especially in humid climates. It can cause your furniture to look unsightly and can also lead to health problems. Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, shady areas. It can grow on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. If you have outdoor furniture that is prone to mildew, it is important to know how to clean it properly. Here are some essential aspects of how to clean mildew off outdoor furniture:

1. Prevention is the Best Cure

The best way to deal with mildew is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing mildew on your outdoor furniture:

Keep your furniture clean. Dirt and debris can provide a breeding ground for mildew.
Store your furniture in a dry place. When you're not using your furniture, store it in a garage or shed where it will be protected from the elements.
Use a mildew-resistant sealant. You can purchase a mildew-resistant sealant at most home improvement stores. Apply the sealant to your furniture according to the directions on the product label.

2. Cleaning Mildew Off Outdoor Furniture

If you do find mildew on your outdoor furniture, don't panic. It is possible to clean it off and restore your furniture to its former glory.

Start by brushing off any loose mildew. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
Mix a cleaning solution. There are a number of different cleaning solutions that you can use to clean mildew off outdoor furniture. Some popular options include:

A mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water)
A mixture of vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 1 part water)
A commercial mildew cleaner

Apply the cleaning solution to the mildew. Apply the cleaning solution to the mildew with a sponge or a cloth. Be sure to wear gloves when you are working with bleach or vinegar.
Let the cleaning solution sit for a while. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. This will give the solution time to kill the mildew.
Rinse the furniture with water. Rinse the furniture with clean water to remove the cleaning solution and any remaining mildew.
Dry the furniture thoroughly. Dry the furniture thoroughly with a clean towel or a hair dryer. This will help to prevent the mildew from coming back.

3. Maintaining Your Outdoor Furniture

Once you have cleaned the mildew off of your outdoor furniture, it is important to take steps to maintain it and prevent the mildew from coming back. Here are some tips for maintaining your outdoor furniture:

Keep your furniture clean. Dirt and debris can provide a breeding ground for mildew, so it is important to keep your furniture clean.
Store your furniture in a dry place. When you're not using your furniture, store it in a garage or shed where it will be protected from the elements.
Use a mildew-resistant sealant. Apply a mildew-resistant sealant to your furniture every year to help prevent the mildew from coming back.