Spring is around the corner, bringing with it the return of cleaning and maintaining a tidy garden. But did you know that you can use ketchup to revive your old furniture?
The weather is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer, meaning that spring is finally approaching. With this change comes a little bit of extra work for our outdoor spaces, as we aim to make them look their best for the summer months ahead.
As time goes by, it’s normal for garden furniture to start looking rusty or worn out. However, according to experts, the best cleaning tools may not be what you expect. In fact, everyday products we already have at home can work perfectly, and they’re technically free. So, do you have ketchup?
It may sound strange, but ketchup can actually be used to remove tarnish and oxidation. This method is especially effective for those who have metal patio furniture, garden gates, or old metal watering cans.
To use it, simply apply a thin layer of ketchup to the affected areas, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then gently scrub away the dirt before rinsing it off with water. It’s just as simple as that, and it doesn’t require a lot of effort.
Sam Stevens, a garden design expert at Pergolux UK, said: “Spring is on its way and a lot of people will be looking at their gardens and getting them ready for brighter and longer days ahead.”
“Cleaning the garden doesn’t have to be an expensive job at all. We all love a cheap and cheerful hack and the good news is that there are plenty of items you’ll already have in your home that can be used in the garden.”
He concluded: “Whether you need to buff away stains, achieve a streak-free finish on glass or get rid of rust, there will be something in your house for everything.”
Other interesting household items that can be used to shine up all of your outdoor furniture include:
- Fizzy drinks – The acids in fizzy drinks can help remove rust and grime.
- Tea bags – Used tea bags can help remove stains from wooden surfaces and furniture.
- Aluminium foil – Scrunch up a small piece and use it to scrub off rust from metal surfaces.
- Pencil eraser – This can help clean and polish chrome or stainless steel.
- A penny – The copper in pennies can be used to clean tarnished brass.
The return of spring and summer is exciting, but it also means the dreaded task of cleaning and maintenance. However, with these simple hacks and just 15 minutes of your time, your garden will be looking like new in no time.