Spring is finally on the horizon, and that means it’s time to shake off the winter blues and get the garden ready for sunny afternoons and outdoor gatherings. It can’t come soon enough! 

Whether you’ve got a cosy patio set or a full outdoor dining setup, giving your garden furniture a little TLC will ensure it looks fresh and inviting for the season ahead. In this guide, we’ll share our tips on how to get your garden furniture spruced up and ready to go.

Assess your garden furniture

Before diving into cleaning and maintenance, take a good look at your furniture. Has winter left its mark with dirt, rust, or even mildew? Chances are the cushions need a good wash, or maybe the wood could do with a bit of love. Identifying these little issues early will help you get everything sorted before the warmer weather arrives.

How to clean different furniture materials

Different materials require different cleaning approaches, just like when you’re cleaning your home. Here’s a quick guide to what you should be using:

• Wood – Use a mild soapy solution and a soft brush to remove any dirt and grime. Rinse your wooden garden furniture thoroughly and let it dry before applying any protective oils or sealants.
• Metal – Wipe down metal furniture with a damp cloth to remove any debris. If you spot any rust, gently sand it down and apply touch-up paint or a rust-resistant coating.
• Plastic – A simple mix of mild detergent and warm water should do the trick on plastic garden furniture. Make sure you avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch surfaces.
• Fabric – If the covers are removable, check the washing instructions and pop them in the machine for a nice wash. For non-removable cushions, a gentle spot clean with warm water, soap, and a cloth or soft brush should get it sorted.

Maintenance and protection tips

Once your furniture is clean, a little extra care will keep it looking great for longer. Here’s what our experienced team suggests:

• Wood – Apply a protective wood oil or sealant to prevent moisture damage and colour fading.
• Metal – Use a good quality wax-based rust inhibitor and give your furniture a light coating.
• Plastic – You can’t really prep plastic, so instead you should store it in shaded areas when you’re not using it to prevent fading and brittleness.
• Fabric – Use an outdoor-suited fabric protector spray to repel water and oil-based stains.

Need new garden furniture?

If your current setup is looking a little worse for wear or you just fancy an upgrade, now is the perfect time to invest in new furniture. Here are some of our favourite options that prove popular with our customers time and time again:

If your outdoor space is on the small side, the Kettler Palma Cube Set with its Polywood Slat Top Table and Taupe Cushions is perfect for fitting in seamlessly. Compact and stylish, this grey four-seater dining set can be tucked into itself to create a cube by sliding the square stools beneath the table. Store the cushions inside or in storage and the rest of the set can be left out all year round.

The Bramblecrest Amsterdam Rectangular Corner Set with its Fire Pit Table is sleek, modern, and perfect for outdoor entertaining. The table with its incredible fire pit feature provides light and warmth for those seated around it on the corner sofa, armchair and bench. We think the style and comfort of this Bramblecrest garden furniture set make it a must-have for those who love to relax with friends outdoors.

For those who love soft comfort, the LeisureGrow St Tropez Lounge Set is a cute and cosy garden furniture set for outdoor spaces. The rattan design and comfortable sand-coloured cushions lend a soothing beach look to this set, while the table is perfect for morning coffees and snacks to pick at with family.

Store and cover your furniture

To keep your furniture in top shape, consider using protective covers when not in use, especially over winter. If possible, store cushions and delicate items indoors or in a secure covered storage unit when not in use, such as the Norcamp Wroxham Storage Box.

You’re ready to enjoy spring

With a bit of care and attention, your garden furniture will be fresh, clean, and ready for all those lovely, lazy spring days ahead. Soon you’ll be outside with a cup of tea, your feet up, and enjoying your beautifully prepped outdoor furniture. We can’t wait, personally! 

If you need a furniture cover, furniture storage, or a brand new set of garden furniture to refresh your outdoor space, you’re already in the right place. Browse our online ranges or come and visit us at Norwich Camping & Leisure in Norfolk, where you’ll find many of our most popular outdoor furniture sets set up and ready to view in person.