Michigan
State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500295
06/24/03
Outdoor Wood Furniture--Care and Cleaning
Redwood Care
Redwood naturally resists weathering and rot. However it should be
coated with a sealer to keep out moisture and thus retard cracks.
Colored sealers restore redness to grayed redwood. Scrub with detergent
and water, rinse, and dry thoroughly before sealing; sometimes sanding
is also necessary.
In winter, cover and store in a sheltered area.
Cleaning
Wipe with a sudsy sponge, followed by a damp sponge.
Before storing, and when needed, scrub with detergent suds, rinse, and
dry.
For grease and soot stains as from outdoor cooking, wash with solution
of 1 cup trisodium phosphate in 1 gallon water, and rinse.
Reseal as needed.
Finished White Wood
This is used for camp stools, directors chairs, parts of some metal
frame chairs.
Care
Seal completely with penetrating sealer for exterior use. May also coat
with exterior varnish. If cracks develop in finish, refinish to prevent
mildew from moisture getting in. Store indoors when not in use
outdoors. Do not leave out in rain.
Cleaning
Wipe with damp cloth and dry, when soiled, and before storing. On
painted wood, can wash with mild detergent solution, rinse, and dry.
Unfinished White Wood
Used for "rustic" furniture, tables, benches, etc.
Care
Treat with exterior penetrating stain containing wood preservative and
mildew inhibitor. Soak bottom 4 inches of legs that touch ground in
wood preservative, or shield with thin aluminum covering. Cover and
store in sheltered area in winter.
Cleaning
Wash with detergent solution rinse and dry when soiled, and before
storing.
References
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus
with references from Illinois Extension bulletin Interior Design/Home
Furnishings - Care of Outdoor Furniture.
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