If you own cast aluminum patio furniture, then you know just how stylish and durable it can be! However, after months of providing beautiful seating on your deck or outdoor living area, the elements and environment can start to take their toll.
With a bit of simple maintenance though, you can ensure that your furniture continues to look great for years to come! Today we’re going to discuss a few tips on how to clean cast aluminum patio furniture without damaging it – so if this is something you’re interested in investigating further, keep reading!
Why Do You Need to Clean Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture?
Aside from making sure that your outdoor living space looks neat and inviting, regular cleaning of your cast aluminum patio furniture can also help preserve its finish.
Unfortunately, if left unattended, dirt, debris and other environmental factors can start to accumulate on the surface of the furniture – leading to fading finishes and potential staining. Regular cleaning can help you avoid this problem and even extend the life of your furniture!
10 Step-by-step Instructions on How to Clean Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture:
Step 1: Gather Supplies
You’ll need to collect all the above supplies including a soft cloth to wipe away dirt and debris, a mild detergent, warm water, and a bucket. It’s also recommended that you wear gloves to protect your hands. But before you get started, make sure that your furniture is completely dry – as wet surfaces can cause the detergent to streak and create a mess!
Step 2: Prepare Detergent Solution
In the bucket, mix the detergent with warm water to create a mild cleaning solution. Stir the mixture until it’s nice and bubbly – but make sure that there aren’t any clumps of detergent in the solution.
If there are, you may want to strain them out. It’s also important to note that you should never use any abrasive cleaners or sponges on your cast aluminum patio furniture. This could cause scratching and damage the finish.
Step 3: Wipe Down Furniture
Using the damp cloth, start to wipe down your furniture in circular motions. This will help remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the surface of the furniture. For tough spots, use a soft brush and a little extra elbow grease. It’s important to note that you should never use any harsh chemicals or abrasives on your furniture as this could damage the finish.
Step 4: Rinse Furniture
Once you’ve finished wiping down the furniture, it’s time to rinse. Make sure that you use plenty of clean water to get rid of any remaining detergent – but don’t use too much as this could cause the furniture to become waterlogged and warp. It’s also important to note that you should never use any abrasive brushes or cleaners on the furniture as this could damage the finish.
Step 5: Dry Furniture
Once you’ve finished rinsing, it’s time to dry your furniture. Use a soft towel or cloth and pat down the furniture – making sure to get rid of any excess water that may have pooled on the surface.
You can also use a hair dryer on the lowest setting to help speed up the drying process. Make sure that you never leave your furniture in direct sunlight as this could cause fading and discoloration.
Step 6: Apply Protectant
Once your furniture is completely dry, you may want to apply a protectant to help keep it looking its best. This will also help ensure that dirt and debris won’t accumulate as quickly in the future – making cleaning much easier! But make sure that you use a protectant specifically designed for cast aluminum patio furniture – as regular protectants may not be compatible.
Step 7: Buff Out Scratches
If you notice any scratches on your cast aluminum patio furniture, you can buff them out with a soft cloth and some petroleum jelly or lemon oil. This should help to reduce the visibility of the scratches and restore your furniture’s shine!
However, if the scratches are too deep or widespread, it may be time to consider refinishing your furniture. It’s best to consult with a professional before attempting this task.
Step 8: Clean Non-Aluminum Parts
For parts of your patio furniture that aren’t made of aluminum, such as cushions or fabrics, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean them.
This will help ensure that you don’t damage these parts of your furniture and keep them looking their best! You may also want to consider using a protectant on these parts to help keep them looking their best. You can usually apply these protectants with a soft cloth or brush.
Step 9: Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas
Finally, make sure that you pay attention to all the hard-to-reach areas of your patio furniture – such as between the slats or underneath the arms and legs.
This will help to ensure that your furniture looks great from all angles and is free of dirt and debris! But remember to use a soft brush and mild detergent when cleaning these areas as abrasive cleaners could damage the finish.
Step 10: Store Furniture Properly When Not in Use
When you’re finished cleaning, make sure that you properly store your cast aluminum patio furniture when it’s not in use. It’s best to keep it in an area that is shaded and away from the elements, such as in a covered patio or shed.
This will help extend its life and keep it looking like new for years to come! Always make sure to keep your furniture covered when not in use as this will help protect it from the elements.
By following these steps on how to clean cast aluminum patio furniture, you can ensure that your cast aluminum patio furniture stays looking great and lasts for many years to come.
Cleaning outdoor furniture doesn’t have to be a chore – with the right supplies and techniques, it can be an easy and enjoyable part of maintaining your outdoor living space! So don’t wait any longer – get out there and give your furniture the clean it deserves!
How Much Could It Cost?
Although it doesn’t require a lot of special supplies or tools, the cost of cleaning cast aluminum patio furniture can still be significant. Depending on the size and condition of your furniture, you may need to purchase detergent, protectant, and other items that can add up over time.
If you want to save money in the long run, consider using natural cleaning products such as baking soda and vinegar – these are usually much more affordable than store-bought solutions. Additionally, it’s important to remember to properly maintain your furniture by regularly cleaning it and applying protectants. This will help ensure that your furniture looks great for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Use Abrasives to Clean Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture?
A1: No, you should never use abrasive cleaners or sponges on your cast aluminum patio furniture as this could cause scratching and damage the finish. It’s best to use a damp cloth and mild detergent for regular cleaning. Otherwise, you may need to refinish your furniture if the scratches are too deep.
Q2: Can I Use Regular Protectants on Cast Aluminum Furniture?
A2: No, you should always use protectants specifically designed for cast aluminum furniture to ensure that it doesn’t become damaged or discolored. Regular protectants may not be compatible with the material.
Q3: How Often Should I Clean My Furniture?
A3: It’s best to clean your cast aluminum patio furniture at least once a month. This will help keep it looking its best and prevent the buildup of dirt and debris. Additionally, it’s important to apply protection after each cleaning session to ensure that your furniture remains protected from the elements.
Q4: Can I Use A Pressure Washer to Clean Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture?
A4: No, you should never use a pressure washer on your cast aluminum patio furniture as this could cause damage. It’s best to use a soft brush or cloth and mild detergent for the cleaning process. Additionally, it’s important to properly rinse and dry your furniture after cleaning to ensure that it stays looking its best.
Conclusion
It is important to keep your cast aluminum patio furniture looking its best. Following the steps provided in this blog post will help you keep it clean and free from dirt, mold, and mildew.
Taking your time to carefully follow the instructions provided is the key to ensuring successful cleaning results.
Cast aluminum furniture may require extra attention when it comes to upkeep and maintenance, but if taken care of properly and regularly, it should remain a functional part of your home’s outdoor living space for many years to come.
Be sure to check for the manufacturer’s guidelines before attempting any cleaning methods or products, as certain products may discolor or damage any type of cast aluminum furniture.
With proper care, maintenance, and some tender loving care, you can preserve your cast aluminum patio furniture so that it lasts through season after season. Thanks for reading this article on how to clean cast aluminum patio furniture.
