Garden Furniture Care: The Complete FAQ Guide

For regular cleaning, use warm soapy water and a soft brush to lift dirt and debris. Rinse with clean water and allow it to air-dry. For stubborn marks, use a specialist teak cleaner. Avoid pressure washers on teak, as high pressure can damage wood fibres.

This is completely natural. Teak weathers into a silvery-grey patina when exposed to sun and rain, and it does not affect strength or longevity. If you prefer the original golden-brown colour, apply a teak sealer or teak oil a few times per year.

Oiling is optional and purely aesthetic. Teak doesn’t need oil for protection because it contains natural oils. If you want to maintain warmer tones, oil at the start of the season and reapply every 2–3 months in summer. Always clean and dry the surface first, then apply thin, even coats.

Yes — quality teak is designed for year-round outdoor use in British conditions. Using breathable covers in winter can help keep it cleaner and reduce spring maintenance. You can browse suitable options in our covers collection.

Hardwood benches benefit from an annual clean and treatment. Wash with mild soapy water, allow to dry fully, then apply a suitable outdoor wood treatment (oil, sealer, or preservative) to support moisture and UV resistance. For browsing wooden seating, see our garden benches.

Minor splitting (checking) can be normal outdoors due to temperature and humidity changes. To reduce it, keep furniture clean, ensure water doesn’t pool on surfaces, and apply oil or sealer as recommended. Position furniture on a well-drained surface and store cushions indoors.

Teak and treated hardwood can stay outdoors year-round, but storage helps preserve appearance. If indoor storage isn’t possible, use a high-quality breathable cover. Browse options here: furniture covers.

Clean thoroughly to remove dirt, leaves, and residue, then allow the furniture to dry completely. If storing indoors, choose a dry, ventilated space. If leaving outdoors, improve airflow and drainage (e.g., slightly elevate legs or ensure it’s not sitting on saturated ground).

Always store cushions and fabric items indoors during winter to prevent mould and deterioration. Clean and dry parasols before storing them in a dry location. For fillable parasol bases, drain water before winter to prevent freezing and cracking.

Wipe-down cleaning every 2–4 weeks in season helps prevent build-up. Do a deeper clean at the start and end of the season using warm soapy water and a soft brush.

We don’t recommend pressure washers for wood — they can damage fibres and force water into joints. For stubborn dirt, use a brush and soapy water. Pressure washers may be used carefully on low settings for some metal or plastic items, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Try a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water, or a specialist outdoor furniture cleaner. Apply with a soft brush, scrub gently, then rinse thoroughly. Always let furniture dry completely before covering or storing.

Check metal furniture annually for chips or rust. Clean with soapy water and touch up any damaged powder coating with suitable paint to prevent rust spreading. Keep parasol bases clean and dry; drain water from fillable bases before winter.

Shake or vacuum weekly. For spills, blot immediately and clean with mild soap and water. Allow to dry fully before placing back down. For best longevity, store rugs indoors during winter.

Wooden planters can remain outdoors if they have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Elevate slightly off the ground in winter. Terracotta and ceramic planters can crack if water freezes inside, so empty or protect them in colder months.

Yes — check chains, hooks, and fixings regularly for safety. Lubricate moving parts annually to reduce squeaks. Clean frames and remove or store canopy fabric indoors during winter. Always follow weight limits and ensure the frame remains stable.

Treat timber components as you would benches (clean and protect annually), and check joints/fixings each season. Remove canopies for winter storage where applicable. Trim climbing plants back to avoid moisture sitting against the timber for long periods.

Warranties typically cover manufacturing defects and structural integrity, but not natural weathering, colour change, or damage from improper care. Keep records and follow care guidance to support warranty coverage.

If timber furniture becomes heavily weathered, stained, or rough, professional restoration can sand and refinish it to restore appearance. Depending on exposure and maintenance, this can be beneficial every 5–10 years.