A good garden furniture set is an investment — and with the right care, it should last for many years. The UK climate is notoriously hard on outdoor furniture, but a simple maintenance routine makes all the difference. Here's how to look after the most common types of garden furniture so they stay looking their best season after season.
Rattan & PE Wicker Furniture
Most modern garden rattan sets are made from synthetic PE (polyethylene) wicker rather than natural rattan, which makes them far more weather-resistant. That said, they still benefit from regular care.
Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soapy water. For dirt trapped in the weave, use a soft brush — an old toothbrush works well. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry fully before covering or storing.
Cushions: Most cushion covers are removable and machine washable. Check the care label, but most can be washed at 30°C. Always allow cushions to dry completely before putting them back — damp cushions left in covers will develop mould.
Winter storage: PE wicker can technically stay outside year-round, but storing it in a shed or garage over winter will significantly extend its life. If leaving it outside, use a breathable furniture cover — avoid non-breathable plastic covers which trap moisture and cause mould.
Rope Woven Furniture
Rope woven garden furniture has a more textural, premium look and is generally very durable. The rope is typically UV-stabilised and weather-resistant, but it still needs some attention.
Cleaning: Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush, then wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washers, which can damage the rope fibres over time.
Drying: Rope furniture dries quickly but make sure it's fully dry before covering. Trapped moisture in the rope can cause mildew over time.
Winter care: Store cushions indoors and cover the frames with a breathable outdoor cover. If you have space, bringing the furniture inside over winter is always the best option.
Acacia & Hardwood Furniture
Solid wood garden furniture — particularly acacia, teak, and eucalyptus — is extremely durable but requires more active maintenance than synthetic materials.
Cleaning: Brush off dirt and debris, then clean with a wood-specific outdoor cleaner or a mild soap solution. Avoid soaking the wood — wipe clean and dry promptly.
Oiling: Hardwood furniture should be oiled once or twice a year to prevent it from drying out and cracking. Use a teak oil or hardwood furniture oil, applied with a cloth in the direction of the grain. Allow to soak in and wipe off any excess. This keeps the wood nourished and helps maintain its colour.
Natural greying: If left untreated, hardwood furniture will naturally turn a silver-grey colour over time. This is completely normal and doesn't affect the structural integrity — many people prefer the weathered look. If you want to maintain the original warm tone, regular oiling is key.
Winter storage: Store hardwood furniture in a dry place over winter if possible. If leaving it outside, cover with a breathable furniture cover and ensure it's not sitting in standing water.
Metal Frames (Steel & Aluminium)
Most garden furniture frames are made from powder-coated steel or aluminium. Aluminium is rust-proof; steel is more susceptible to rust if the coating is damaged.
Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry thoroughly — standing water on metal frames accelerates corrosion.
Rust prevention: Check powder-coated steel frames annually for chips or scratches. Touch up any exposed metal with a rust-inhibiting paint to prevent rust from spreading.
Winter care: Store metal furniture indoors or under a breathable cover. Avoid leaving it in contact with wet ground over winter.
General Tips for All Garden Furniture
- Cover it when not in use — a good quality breathable furniture cover is the single best investment you can make to extend the life of any garden set.
- Store cushions indoors — even weather-resistant cushions will last longer if stored inside when not in use.
- Clean before storing — never put dirty furniture away for winter. Dirt and moisture left on surfaces over winter causes far more damage than the weather itself.
- Check fixings annually — tighten any loose bolts or screws at the start of each season to keep the furniture structurally sound.
- Avoid harsh chemicals — bleach and strong detergents can damage finishes, fade colours, and weaken materials. Mild soap and water is almost always sufficient.
A little care goes a long way. With the right maintenance routine, a quality garden furniture set will reward you with years of outdoor living — whatever the British weather throws at it.