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With sunnier days around the corner, it’s time to get your outside furniture prepped, an expert has warned.
Garden furniture expert Magdalena Gierasinska, from Barker and Stonehouse, has revealed that, despite the current temperatures remaining cool, now is the best time to refresh certain outdoor furniture.
Gierasinska said: ‘Good garden furniture is an investment that will serve you beautifully for years, provided it’s cared for properly.
‘The key is regular attention and simple preventive steps to keep it looking its best. However, every material has its own character, and its own care needs.’
‘With a little routine care and protection from the elements, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space in style season after season’, Gierasinska added.
Read on to discover the garden furniture that requires care in March to shine come summer.
A garden furniture expert has revealed the items that require attention now to be ready in time for summer (stock image)
Hardwood
It’s perhaps one of the most common materials for outdoor dining sets, but hardwood requires certain steps to ensure its longevity.
Gierasinska explained: ‘Hardwood furniture has a beautiful, natural character that changes gently over time.
‘Even when covered, you’ll notice the finish softening and the tone shifting towards a silvery grey, which is part of the wood’s natural evolution.
‘To keep it looking its best, we recommend sanding and re-oiling at least once a year, ideally when you first bring your furniture out ready for spring.’
And when it comes to year-round care, a cover and proper storage are advised.
She explained: ‘Because wood reacts to the elements, rainwater can leave marks if furniture is left uncovered, while sunlight may cause finishes to fade.
‘A breathable, ventilated cover helps reduce this, but it’s important to store hardwood furniture in a cool, dry, and airy space over winter, so a watertight shed or garage is ideal.’
Engineered wood
Caring for engineered wood, much like with teak and acacia, requires frequent but gentle care – and Gierasinska said it’s best to get started now.
The expert said: ‘Different materials have different needs and understanding them is key to keeping your garden furniture looking beautiful for longer.
‘For engineered wood and wood-printed finishes, the best approach is simple and gentle care.
‘Wipe surfaces with a damp, soapy cloth, then let them dry completely before use. Avoid anything abrasive, as this can scratch or dull the finish.
‘To extend the life of these pieces, we always recommend covering them when not in use and storing them in a dry, sheltered space over the winter months.
‘Use a breathable cover that allows ventilation and always remove any cushions first to prevent mould or moisture build-up.’
Cleaning oils
Teak and acacia
Teak and acacia can serve as excellent materials for outdoor furniture, but proper care must be taken now, the expert warned.
‘Teak is wonderfully durable but benefits from gentle care, so I’d wash it with water and a soft brush now and again, and use a specialist cleaner once or twice a year to lift dirt and restore its natural tone. Ensure you avoid power washing, as that can damage the grain.
‘Teak also needs plenty of ventilation, so try to store it somewhere airy rather than in a damp or sealed space.
‘Always cover when not in use, making sure everything is completely dry first, and remove any cushions before covering to prevent mould or water marks. Protective mats or coasters are also a good idea to avoid any accidental rings or surface marks.
‘Acacia furniture benefits from similar care. It should be covered when not in use and kept away from direct sunlight or scorching heat to prevent bleaching.
‘And because this timber is sensitive to heat fluctuations, avoid storing it in artificially heated areas. I would say steady, natural conditions are best.’
Garden furniture covers
Synthetic rattan, wicker and bamboo
Out of all the garden furniture materials, synthetic rattan, wicker and bamboo products require the most attention.
The expert said: ‘For rattan, wicker, and bamboo-style furniture, regular cleaning makes all the difference.
‘We suggest wiping down your rattan garden furniture every one to three months to stop dirt, pollen, or bacteria from collecting in the weave.
‘A soft brush or even tweezers can help remove debris from tight crevices; just take care not to damage the material. Finish by rinsing and drying it thoroughly, ideally in a well-ventilated space.
‘We don’t recommend using pressure washers or harsh detergents on synthetic rattan, as they can weaken or scratch the finish.
‘Similarly, reflective objects like glassware or bottles can cause heat damage if left in direct sunlight, while very hot or cold items should always be placed on a trivet or mat instead of directly on the furniture.
‘Most synthetic rattan is sturdy enough to stay outdoors year-round, but during extreme weather, like high winds or freezing temperatures, it’s wise to move it into sheltered storage.
Cold conditions can make the material brittle over time. As with all outdoor furniture, always let it dry fully before covering and choose breathable protection to promote airflow.’
