How to Clean Wood Outdoor Furniture

Cleaning wood outdoor furniture isn't much different than cleaning other types of outdoor furniture. However there is a few things that you need to remember in order to not damage the wood or to bring out the natural beauty. I hope you find this list of tips helpful in your quest for clean and pretty wood outdoor furniture.

For your protection, wear thick rubber cleaning gloves. Not only will it help keep your hands out of any soaps or detergents but it will help to prevent getting wood splinters in your hands.

Look for danger underneath. There is many insects that might have lived there during the last few months. Some could be dangerous, such as a recluse spider or bees nest. So look for and remove any insect homes or insects.

Was the entire furniture piece, not just the top surface. It is important to wash the underside too. You never know when a piece of clothing might somehow come in contact and become dirty. Also the rain can cause dirt to wash out and make dirty tracks on your furniture.

For wood furniture, Murphy's Oil Soap is a great cleaning product. It will not damage wood, yet it is a powerful cleaner. This cleaner actually revitalizes the wood to bring out the natural beauty and glow. It works well with painted wood as well.

If using a cleaner besides Murphy's Oil Soap it is important to do a test swatch before cleaning the entire piece. Some cleaners may not be suitable for use on your specific furniture due to manufacturing variables.

If your outdoor wooden furniture was left out all winter, then it probably has a thick layer of dirt and grime. If this is the case, then wash several times but gently. Use clean water each times and wipe off with a cloth.

Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners on wood for any reason. These will damage the wood, sometimes deeply. If the wood is stained with dirt or mold and mildew, then consider sanding and a wood stain or paint.

Use a denture brush lightly in small crevices or hard to reach corners. Denture brushes come with two different types of brushes and some even have a small rubber toothpick attachment. This makes getting out dirt and grime or even twigs and leave debris a breeze.

Bamboo furniture can be brushed gently to remove dust and dirt before washing with soap and water.

Rub the wood outdoor furniture with a soft rag to dry. This will prevent water spots and possibly more water damage on furniture that is already showing signs of weather damage.

So clean your outdoor wood furniture and start enjoying the fine weather. And remember that it will be easier to clean next year if you store it during the winter.