Regular cleaning of your patio furniture not only makes it look great, but it also helps maintain the integrity of the material. How you should clean your outdoor furniture depends largely on the type of material it's made from, but there is some crossover in washing procedures. Backyard Adventures of Iowa, a leading patio furniture retailer in Iowa, offers this cleaning guide to help you get your set looking great and ready for a summer full of barbecues.

Your Patio Furniture Cleaning Guide

1. Remove Dirt & Grime

Begin the cleaning process by removing any surface dirt with water. This step can be completed by using a wet cloth or even a garden hose. If you're washing by hand, avoid rubbing too harshly as it may damage the paint. In some cases, this quick wash may remove all the grime from your furniture, and you can be done with the cleaning process. However, if you face tougher dirt or stains, move on to the next step.

2. Use Specialty Cleaners

When cleaning your patio furniture, you can tackle stubborn dirt with a high-powered cleaning solution. The mixture you use needs to be designed specifically for the type of outdoor furniture you own. For instance, wood chairs need a completely different type of solution than aluminum items. You also need to avoid harsh chemicals that could eat away the paint or finish of the furniture.

3. Spot Check & Rinse

After you've treated the furniture with the necessary solution, spot check to make sure that all the dirt and grime is removed. Any pesky spots should be recleaned, and in some situations, the cleaning mixture may need to sit for a few minutes to help break it up fully. Once the patio furniture is completely clean, it's time for a quick rinse with the garden hose and then your job is finished.

If your patio furniture is beyond cleaning, consider replacing it with a new set from Backyard Adventures of Iowa. Based in Urbandale, the company offers a variety of high-quality outdoor furniture in a wide array of designs and colors. As an authorized Backyard Adventures dealer, they also offer customizable play sets for kids of all ages. Take a look at their selection on their website, or learn more by contacting them at (515) 270-2433.