Omar Khalid
Plastic garden furniture is a durable, low-maintenance option that can withstand the erratic UK climate. However, exposure to the elements can cause plastic furniture to fade, discolour, or become chalky due to oxidation. To rejuvenate your plastic garden furniture, you can try various methods, from thorough cleaning and scrubbing to specialised products like plastic restorers and primers. Storing your furniture indoors during harsh weather and regularly maintaining it can also help extend its lifespan and prevent colour fading. If you want to restore heavily faded furniture, you can try sanding, priming, and painting it, or using a heat gun with petroleum jelly for a more complex solution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning products | Warm soapy water, baking soda, WD-40, specialist plastic restorers, linseed oil and mineral spirits, petroleum jelly |
| Cleaning methods | Rinse with water, scrub with a sponge, wipe with a damp cloth, spray, rub with a cloth, buff, sand |
| Protective measures | Store indoors, apply a protective coat, use a primer |
| Other | Paint, use car wax |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning with soapy water
Cleaning plastic garden furniture with soapy water is an effective way to rejuvenate it. It is a simple, cost-effective, and gentle method to clean plastic garden furniture.
To begin, prepare a mixture of mild soap or washing-up liquid and warm water. You can use a bucket or a bowl for this. The soapy water mixture is now ready to be applied to the plastic furniture. Use a sponge, soft-bristled brush, or cloth to scrub away any dirt, dust, pollen, or grime that has built up on the surface. Be sure to reach into any latticework or crevices to ensure a thorough clean.
If your furniture has stains or discolouration, you can boost the cleaning power of the soapy water by incorporating additional ingredients. For example, baking soda (also known as bicarbonate of soda) can be added to the soapy water to create a more abrasive mixture. Alternatively, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water, apply this paste to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently.
Once you have finished scrubbing the furniture, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. A garden hose with a spray setting is ideal for this step. Ensure that all surfaces are rinsed, paying particular attention to areas where water may pool, such as seat tops.
After rinsing, allow the furniture to air dry completely in direct sunlight. Sunlight will help kill any remaining mildew spores and prevent new ones from forming.
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Using specialist plastic restorers
If your plastic garden furniture is looking a little tired, there are specialist plastic restorers available that can help bring it back to life. These products are designed specifically for plastic and will restore the original colour and lustre.
There are several plastic restorers available on the market, including HG Plastic Furniture Restorer, Everbuild, Garden Genie, WD-40 Multi-Use Product, Furniture Clinic's Plastic Restoration Kit, and Rejuvenate Outdoor Restorer. These products can be used to restore and protect plastic garden furniture, bringing colour and shine back to faded surfaces.
Before using a plastic restorer, it is important to clean the surface of your furniture to remove any dirt, dust, pollen, or other residue. You can use a mild soap and water solution, or a stronger cleaning solution if your furniture is particularly dirty or stained. Be sure to rinse the furniture well and allow it to dry thoroughly before applying the plastic restorer.
When using a plastic restorer, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and test on an inconspicuous area first. Pour a small amount of the product onto a clean cloth and rub it into the surface of the furniture. You may need to apply a second coat for optimal results.
In addition to using a plastic restorer, you can also apply a UV-protectant and moisture-repellent spray to help prevent future fading and damage caused by direct sunlight and moisture. This will help to keep your plastic garden furniture looking its best for longer.
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Applying linseed oil and mineral spirits
Linseed oil and mineral spirits can be used to rejuvenate plastic garden furniture. Linseed oil is a drying oil that will bond with the original finish of the furniture. It will form a skin as it dries, and this skin will darken over time as it oxidizes. To avoid this, you can use mineral spirits (paint thinner) to clean the piece before applying a light coat of paste wax.
When using linseed oil to rejuvenate plastic garden furniture, it is recommended to use boiled linseed oil, as natural linseed oil does not provide a protective finish. Boiled linseed oil, however, requires a lot of time and applications. It is recommended to apply it "once a day for a week, once a week for a month, and once a month for a year". To reduce the number of applications, the boiled linseed oil can be diluted with mineral spirits. The standard mixture is one-third boiled linseed oil or tung oil, one-third thinner (mineral spirits, paint thinner, turpentine, or naphtha), and one-third varnish.
When applying linseed oil and mineral spirits to plastic garden furniture, it is important to first clean the furniture with warm soapy water to remove any debris, cobwebs, or general muck. Then, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to roughen it up slightly, allowing for better paint adhesion. After the furniture is dry, you can apply a mixture of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits with a rag. After a minute or so, buff the solution off with another rag. This method has been praised for its effectiveness in restoring the colour of plastic furniture, ease of application, and pleasant smell.
It is important to note that linseed oil may cause yellowing in light-coloured plastics over time. As an alternative, you can use a plastic primer and paint suitable for plastic surfaces, or a specialist plastic garden furniture cleaning solution such as HG Plastic Furniture Restorer, Everbuild, or Garden Genie. Additionally, WD-40 can be used to restore faded plastic garden furniture by spraying it onto the surface and rubbing it in with a clean, dry cloth.
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Sanding and repainting
If your plastic garden furniture has seen better days, sanding and repainting can bring it back to life. Start by giving your furniture a good clean to remove any dirt, grime, or mould. You can use a specialist plastic garden furniture cleaning solution, or a mixture of mild soap and water, or vinegar for tough algae stains. Rinse with water and leave to dry thoroughly.
Once your furniture is dry, it's time to start sanding. Sanding is a critical step in the restoration process as it prepares the surface for new finishes. Use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface and remove any existing paint, rough patches, or scratches. Sanding will also help to roughen the surface, allowing for better adhesion of the new paint. Be sure to wipe away any dust from sanding before moving on to the next step.
After sanding, you'll need to apply a primer. Choose a plastic primer or any outdoor primer suitable for plastic surfaces. Apply the primer evenly all over the furniture and let it dry completely. This will ensure better coverage and adherence of the new paint.
Now it's time to repaint your furniture. Select a high-quality outdoor spray paint specifically formulated for plastic. It's best to apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to dry in between, rather than one thick coat. This will help to prevent drips and ensure even coverage. Remember to wear safety glasses if using spray paint.
Finally, let your furniture dry for at least 24 hours before using it. Your plastic garden furniture will now look brand new, and you can enjoy it for many seasons to come.
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Storing indoors
Storing plastic garden furniture indoors is a great way to preserve its structural integrity and enhance its longevity. By bringing your plastic garden furniture inside, you're not only protecting it from potential damage caused by exposure to the elements, but you're also creating a more convenient and enjoyable outdoor space for yourself.
When plastic garden furniture is left outdoors, it can be exposed to sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors that can cause discolouration, material deterioration, and fading. By storing your furniture indoors, you're shielding it from these harmful elements, thus preventing colour fading and maintaining the furniture's original appearance. This simple act of storing your furniture inside can significantly extend its lifespan, saving you from having to frequently repair or replace it.
Additionally, the process of moving your plastic garden furniture indoors during harsh weather conditions can be made easier due to its lightweight nature. Plastic furniture is often lighter than furniture made from other materials, making it convenient to rearrange or store away during the winter months. This flexibility allows you to protect your investment and maintain the charm and functionality of your outdoor space.
To further enhance the durability of your plastic garden furniture, regular cleaning and maintenance are key. A thorough scrubbing with mild soap and water, followed by air drying, can prevent water spots and mould growth while also revitalising the colour of your furniture. By incorporating this cleaning routine into your indoor storage practice, you can ensure that your plastic garden furniture remains in top condition and continues to exude its original allure for years to come.
Overall, storing your plastic garden furniture indoors is a proactive and effective way to preserve its condition and extend its lifespan. By shielding it from the elements and providing proper care, you can maintain the furniture's structural integrity, visual appeal, and overall functionality, making it a worthwhile investment for your outdoor space.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a specialist plastic garden furniture cleaning solution, warm soapy water, or a mild abrasive cleaner.
You can lightly sand the surface, apply a plastic primer, and then paint with a high-quality outdoor spray paint formulated for plastic. You can also use a plastic restorer like WD-40 or a blend of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits.
Store your furniture indoors during inclement weather. Regularly clean and rejuvenate your furniture to prevent deterioration from exposure to sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors.
You can use specialist plastic garden furniture cleaning solutions such as HG Plastic Furniture Restorer, Everbuild, and Garden Genie. You can also use WD-40, car wax, or a blend of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits.
