After a few seasons on the porch, your furnishings may start to show their age with rust marks, mildew, or stains. These general care tips will ensure that your chairs, tables, and cushions look beautiful for years to come.

Read Care Guidelines
Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instructions. Using unsuitable products may damage items and void the warranty.

Start With a Light Cleaning
Sweep surfaces as needed using a soft-bristle brush, and rinse with water.

Use a Gentle Cleanser
Combine 1/4 cup mild dishwashing liquid, such as Ivory, and 1 gallon warm water. Use a sponge or a soft-bristle brush to scrub the furniture's surface thoroughly. Rinse, and then pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

Avoid Harsh Treatments
Do not power- wash or use chlorine bleach, pine oil, or abrasive cleansers unless directed. Test new solutions on a hidden area.

Manage Mold
Scrub or sand lightly to remove mold, depending on the material. Wear gloves, and discard used supplies to avoid spreading spores.

Protect Furniture
Cover items when they're not in use, or store them indoors. Remove the foot caps on chairs and tables, and keep furniture upright to allow accumulated water to drain.

Wicker
This pliable weave used to make furniture is traditionally constructed from rattan, split reed, or coated paper and is sometimes reinforced with metal. Coats of clear varnish, paint, or a combination of the two are often applied to protect the surface. Use wicker in a covered area.

Deep Cleaning
To remove dirt and debris, vacuum with a dust-brush attachment or use a dry paintbrush. Clean with a mild soap solution. Scrub, and rinse. Avoid using too much water, which can weaken the fibers. Dry as described.

Maintenance
Regular cleaning is recommended for wicker, as it generally cannot endure harsh or abrasive treatments. This also minimizes mildew buildup. Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any peeling paint, and touch up with paint as necessary.