Ethan Clarke
Plastic chairs are lightweight, stylish, and affordable, but they can start to look old over time. If your plastic chairs are starting to look faded and dull, there are several ways to restore them. Regular dusting and wiping with a wet cloth can keep plastic chairs clean, but for deeper cleaning, you can use soap, water, and a brush. You can also use household cleaners or plastic restorers, such as WD-40, to bring back the shine to your plastic chairs. If your chairs have become crooked, ensure that you place them on a flat surface. For a complete change, you can also spray paint your plastic chairs.
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What You'll Learn
Clean with soap and water
To restore your plastic outdoor chairs, a good first step is to clean them with soap and water. This method is simple, and you can do it with items you likely already have at home.
First, you'll want to gather your supplies. You will need a bucket of warm water, some mild soap, and a brush or sponge. You may also want a cloth to wipe the chairs down with after washing.
Next, you'll want to prepare the soapy water. Mix a small amount of soap into the bucket of water. You don't need too much soap, just enough to create some suds.
Then, dip your brush or sponge into the soapy water and start scrubbing the chairs. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, and pay extra attention to any particularly dirty areas. If your chairs are very dirty, you may need to change out the soapy water for fresh water and soap partway through.
Once you've scrubbed the chairs and are satisfied that they're clean, rinse them off with a hose or a bucket of fresh water. If you're using a bucket, you may want to use a cloth to wipe the chairs down and help remove any remaining soap residue.
Finally, let the chairs air dry in the sun. If you're in a hurry, you can also use a cloth to wipe them down and speed up the drying process. And that's it! Your plastic outdoor chairs should now be clean and looking much better.
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Use a plastic restorer
If your plastic chairs are looking a little worse for wear, you can use a plastic restorer to bring them back to life. Over time, plastic chairs can become oxidized, resulting in a chalky appearance and white stretch marks. This is caused by exposure to sunlight and dust. However, you can easily fix this issue with a few simple steps.
First, clean your plastic chairs with soap and water, using a sponge or brush to remove any dirt and grime. You can also use a mild abrasive household cleaner for this step. Ensure the chairs are thoroughly dried before moving on to the next step.
Next, you can apply a plastic rejuvenator or restorer. These products are widely available and can bring shine and sparkle back to your chairs. Follow the application instructions on the product you choose, as they may vary between brands. Typically, you will wipe the rejuvenator onto the chair with a microfiber or soft cloth and allow it to dry before deciding if a second coat is needed.
If your chairs are very faded or chalky, you might want to try a vinyl trim cleaner/restorer from an auto parts store. One recommended product is Meguiars, but avoid Armor-All. For heavily oxidized chairs, you could also try smearing petroleum jelly on the affected areas, leaving it in the sun for a few minutes, and then buffing it off with a paper towel. This method can reduce the white haze of oxidation, but be aware that petroleum jelly may cause cracking.
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Apply petroleum jelly
One way to restore outdoor plastic chairs is to use petroleum jelly. This method can make plastic furniture shine again and reduce the white haze of oxidation.
To use this method, start by cleaning your plastic chairs with a mild household abrasive. Rinse the chairs and let them dry completely. Next, apply a layer of petroleum jelly to the surface of the chairs. You can use a cloth to rub it in, or smear it on with your hands. Leave the jelly on the chairs for about a minute, then wipe it away with a paper towel or a buffing cloth. If there are areas of heavy oxidation or dirt, you may need to lightly scrub them with an extra-fine plastic scouring pad before wiping the jelly away.
It is important to note that petroleum jelly may cause cracking in some types of plastic. Therefore, it is recommended to test the jelly on a small area of the chair before applying it to the entire surface. Additionally, make sure to clean the chairs thoroughly before applying the jelly, as dirt can fuse into the plastic if it is not removed first.
If you want a longer-lasting solution, you could consider spray painting your plastic chairs. This method can restore the look of your chairs and even change their colour. However, it may require more time and effort than simply applying petroleum jelly.
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Spray paint
First, give your chairs a good clean. You can use a mild abrasive household cleaner, soap, and water, along with a brush to remove any dirt and grime. If your chairs have a slick finish, you can use light grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface, which will help the paint adhere better and give you a smoother finish. You can also use a plastic rejuvenator or vinyl trim cleaner/restorer to bring back some shine.
Once your chairs are clean and dry, you can start preparing them for painting. If your chairs have an existing coat of paint, you might want to sand it down to make the surface smoother and help the new paint adhere better. It is recommended to lightly sand the chairs even if they are not painted, as this will remove the white powder that forms on the surface of faded plastic chairs. Wash the chairs again after sanding to remove any dust, and let them dry completely.
Now you're ready to start painting! Choose a spray paint that is specifically designed to stick to plastic. Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover is a good option, as it bonds well with plastic and is weather-resistant. You can also use a paint and primer in one, such as True Value X-O Rust Paint & Primer in One, to save some time. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from the surface of the chair and spray in a sweeping motion. Apply a thin coat of paint first and don't worry about full coverage. Let the paint dry before deciding if you need to apply another coat. The number of coats will depend on your personal judgment and the piece of furniture you are painting.
Once you're happy with the paint coverage, let the chairs dry for at least 24 hours before using them. If you used painter's tape, remove it after the paint has completely dried. Now you can enjoy your refreshed and updated outdoor chairs!
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Store covered
If you are anticipating severe weather, such as a hurricane or storms with high winds, hail, or large amounts of snow, it is recommended to store your plastic outdoor furniture indoors. This will protect your furniture from damage and preserve its structural integrity.
When storing your plastic chairs, it is important to keep them covered. You can purchase protective covers specifically designed for outdoor furniture, which will shield the chairs from environmental elements such as rain, UV rays, and dust. These covers are durable and can withstand outdoor conditions, ensuring your chairs remain in top condition.
If you do not have access to a protective cover, you can use a regular cloth to cover your chairs. This will help keep them clean and prevent dust accumulation. Ensure the cloth is large enough to cover the entire chair, and consider securing it in place to prevent it from blowing away in windy conditions.
Storing your plastic chairs indoors, such as in a garage, shed, or basement, is ideal. If you do not have the space to bring them inside, you can still protect them by using a suitable cover. Additionally, you can apply a protective coating, such as WD-40, to your chairs before storing them. This will create a protective layer that can help remove stains and protect against rust.
By taking these proactive measures to store your plastic outdoor chairs, you can maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan, ensuring they remain a worthwhile investment for your outdoor space.
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Frequently asked questions
You can restore your outdoor plastic chairs by cleaning them with soap and water, using a plastic restorer like WD-40, or spray painting them.
You can use soap and water with a sponge or brush to clean the chairs. You can also use a pressure washer. Ensure you clean the chairs regularly and cover them with a cloth when not in use to prevent dust buildup.
You can use plastic restorers like WD-40, vinyl trim cleaners, or plastic rejuvenators. You can also try petroleum jelly, but be cautious as it may cause cracking.
