Cleaning Vinyl Outdoor Furniture
Daily exposure to the elements and dirt, in addition to body lotions and oils, can damage vinyl fabric with time. Without sufficient cleaning, outdoor furniture may get worn and dingy. Killing vinyl patio and pool-deck furniture from sunlight, moisture, dirt and substances maintain your furniture looking bright.
In the Pantry
While specialty goods exist for cleaning vinyl, experts agree that natural solutions may be the best and non-damaging. Apple cider vinegar is a secret of many professional cleaners, and it has a wide variety of uses — from degreaser to window cleaning. As a cleaning solution for vinyl furniture, environmentally friendly vinegar provides a residue-free deep clean. Its acidity is particularly helpful in countering mould and mildew. A very simple solution of 1 part washing soda and 10 parts water is an alternate cleaning process that entails little scrubbing while preventing scratching and dulling. Apply using a sponge or microfiber fabric, then allow it to set for a few minutes, then rinse it with warm water. Washing soda are available at most large grocery stores but you can make your own by baking a thin layer of baking soda on a cookie sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about thirty minutes, stirring occasionally. After a half hour or so, the powdery crystallized baking soda change into a dull, permeable material with visibly separate grains.
Under the Sink
Gentle cleansers and degreasers are devised to clean plastic, although whatever you’ve got on hand is acceptable. Spray the furniture using the cleaning solution, then rub it down with a sponge or cloth. If furniture is heavily stained or covered in grime, let the cleaner sit for a couple minutes after application before rinsing, to decrease scrubbing time.
In a Pinch
Everyday dishwasher detergent mixed with hot water is a great option for cleaning outside vinyl and plastic furniture. Insert 1/4 cup olive or liquid dishwashing detergent to 1 gallon of water, stir well,and apply it into the furniture using a sponge or spray bottle; allow it to set for 15 minutes. As exposure to sunlight accelerates the fading process when combined with the whitening agents in many dishwashing detergents, a comprehensive rinse is vital. Much like the other options, this process can be harsh on the skin so be sure to wear rubber gloves.
Tips and Tricks
Even though many men and women use bleach-based goods on plastic exterior furniture, harsh substances cause fading and drying, so stick with alternate procedures unless furniture needs a lot of this harsh-yet-effective therapy. For the exact same reason, dipping chairs into chlorinated pool water and drying them in the sunlight isn’t recommended. As this includes a temporary brightening effect, it leads to premature wear and tear. Additional protect vinyl furniture using a towel when lying or sitting on it, in addition to addressing it during wet weather. By taking these preventive actions and by cleaning plastic furniture to a weekly basic, you keep it looking its very best and prolong its existence.