If you’ve discovered a load of unpleasant stains on your garden furniture set, then don’t panic. This cheap and effective kitchen item will make them disappear in no time
At long last, the dreary winter is coming to a close and the days are getting brighter – which means it’s time to pull out the garden furniture. If it’s picked up a bit of grime over the months of disuse, then don’t worry. There is one incredibly easy way to get rid of furniture stains – that you probably already have at home.
The first step to cleaning your furniture properly figuring out which kind of stain you have. Some of the most common stains that can build up on garden chairs and tables include tannin stains, which come from water-based materials like tea, coffee and wine. There are also rust stains, which happen to metal left out in wet weather. But perhaps the most prevalent are grease stains, which are typically caused by food spillages, especially if you are a fan of barbecuing oily meats like sausages. They can ruin the fabric of your garden furniture and seep into wood, leaving it looking shabby and worse for wear.
If you have stains caused by grease or oil, experts at Paving Superstore recommend using a simple solution of washing up liquid and soap. Then apply the mixture, leave it to soak, before scrubbing it away with a brush. They write: “If it’s a greasy or oily stain, you can try using washing up liquid and warm water. Apply the soap directly to the stain and scrub it gently with a brush or cloth.” While many of us don’t think to use it on furniture, washing up liquid is actually a fantastic way to get rid of unsightly stains – even outdoors. This is because it is designed to break down the fatty deposits on plates and cutlery, which is what leads to the unpleasant-looking marks on furniture in the first place.
Of course, while washing up liquid is a relatively gentle cleaning agent, take care not to damage your furniture any further by scrubbing too harshly. You can use either a cloth or soft-bristle brush, and wash away the dirt in gentle motions. You probably already have washing up liquid in your kitchen, but if you don’t, not to worry. A bottle of Fairy Washing Up Liquid can be ordered online from Viking Direct for a bargain £1.02.
If washing up liquid doesn’t quite do the trick, then you can also try using vinegar or baking soda. Although Paving Superstore caution to test the solution first in case it causes damage. They advise: “If the stain is particularly stubborn, you can also try using vinegar or baking soda. (Always test on an inconspicuous area first and never use on black limestone).”
