Garden furniture often becomes one of the biggest casualties in a garden as it collects all sorts of dirt and grime – but one kitchen staple could give it an instant refresh
The change of weather – good weather – comes with some extra work when it comes to our garden spaces. As we look forward to the hotter months our attentions turn to how best we can spend our time outside.
For many of us, this includes sprucing up the outside furniture which can become covered in moss, stains, debris and cobwebs where it’s been sat in all weathers over the autumn and winter. While some of us may reach for an abrasive spray, consumer experts at Which? recommend a household item we all have that does the same, if not better, job. Did you know washing-up liquid can revive your outdoor furniture?
According to a survey from Which?, which revealed the best and worst washing-up liquids, it actually does have more use than just keeping your dishes sparkling clean. It can refresh your garden furniture.
Cleaning the outdoor furniture is a must-do task for all gardeners to maintain its cleanliness and quality. By cleaning regularly and removing the dirt, grime and mould, it helps prevent the fading of the colours and the overall look of the garden.
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Whether you’re just giving your outdoor furniture a quick clean or preparing for the arrival of the summer, washing-up liquid is an excellent way to scrub it down and get rid of all that dirt accumulated from the past few months.
It said: “Before your guests arrive, you can give your patio a refresh with a washing-up liquid cleaning solution. A wipe down with a spongy and soapy water mixture will revive your deckchairs, tables and benches and make your outdoor space much more appealing.”
To do so, mix a few drops of washing-up liquid with warm water. Using a cloth or a brush, scrub the dirt away until all of the dirt is gone. When dealing with materials such as plastic chairs, don’t scrub them harshly to prevent any scratches.
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Once done, rinse the soap with water to get rid of the soap and let it air dry. Alternatively, you can wipe down the furniture using a clean, dry cloth to prevent any water spots.
By following this simple trick, gardeners can ensure to have their garden spaces are sparkling clean and ready for the summer months ahead. Alternatively, you can also use white vinegar to get rid of the stubborn stains, or even ketchup, as this method is effective for those who have metal patio furniture.
Washing-up liquids are also accessible to buy in any UK supermarket or local store, with prices starting as low as £1.