All Outdoor Furniture Care Guide
Outdoor Furniture Care Guide: Materials, Maintenance & Longevity
Outdoor furniture is designed to perform in open‑air environments, but how you care for it directly impacts how long it lasts and how it looks over time. Just like a car that is washed regularly and kept under cover, outdoor furniture benefits enormously from routine maintenance and protection from the elements.
This guide covers general outdoor care principles, environmental considerations, and material‑specific care for common outdoor furniture components, including steel, aluminium, porcelain, tempered glass, PE wicker, and outdoor fabrics.
General Outdoor Furniture Care for the following materials:
Steel Frames
Aluminium Frames
Porcelain Outdoor Surfaces
PE Wicker
Glassfiber Reinforced Concrete CFRC
Consistent upkeep significantly extends the life and appearance of outdoor furniture.
Best Practices
- Clean furniture regularly to prevent dirt and debris build‑up
- Avoid leaving furniture in pooled water or on damp ground for prolonged periods
- Always cover furniture when not in use, especially during extended periods of non‑use
Simple habits like these help preserve finishes and structural integrity.
Considering Your Outdoor Environment
Always factor in the environment where outdoor furniture will be placed.
Key Environmental Considerations
- Coastal locations with salt spray and salt‑laden air
- High UV exposure from harsh sunlight
- Areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall
Not all materials perform equally in every environment. Selecting the right materials and following appropriate care guidelines is essential for long‑term durability.
1. Steel Frame Outdoor Furniture
All steel frames are double E‑coated before a specially formulated outdoor‑grade powder coat is applied. This is the same corrosion‑resistant preparation used on steel car panels prior to painting.
Important Notes
- Chips or scratches expose bare steel and will cause rust if left untreated
- Steel is not well suited to coastal environments
- Leaving frames in pooled water or damp ground allows moisture to penetrate beneath coatings, leading to corrosion
Maintenance Tips
- Hose down or wash frames regularly using water and a mild detergent
- This removes dirt and debris that can compromise protective coatings
- Always cover steel furniture when not in use for extended periods
2. Aluminium Frame Outdoor Furniture
Aluminium is the best material choice for outdoor furniture in coastal environments.
Benefits
- Guaranteed not to rust
- Lightweight and easy to reconfigure or move under cover
- Long‑lasting compared to many alternatives
Considerations
- Lightweight items may be unsuitable in areas exposed to strong winds
Care Guidelines
- Avoid leaving frames in pooled water or damp ground
- Trapped moisture may cause coatings to separate from the frame
- Clean regularly with water and a mild detergent
- Cover furniture when not in use for prolonged periods
3. Porcelain Outdoor Surfaces
Porcelain is one of the most durable outdoor surfaces available, offering exceptional resistance to environmental stress.
Key Advantages
- Heat, stain, scratch, and UV resistant
- Colour will not fade over time
Care Guidelines
- Avoid using sharp or abrasive objects directly on the surface
- Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent or a glass cleaner
- Do not use chemical or corrosive cleaners, as they may damage the polished finish
Porcelain surfaces retain their appearance with minimal maintenance when cleaned correctly.
Tempered Glass Outdoor Furniture
Tempered glass is strong and safe, but still requires careful handling.
Important Considerations
- Sudden temperature changes may cause the glass to shatter in some instances
- Always use coasters or heat‑proof mats for hot or very cold items
- Avoid placing glass in areas exposed to direct sunlight for long periods
Cleaning
- Use a soft, damp cloth with mild detergent or a glass cleaner
- Avoid chemical or corrosive cleaners, which can damage the polished surface
4. PE Wicker (Synthetic Wicker)
PE wicker is a highly durable synthetic fibre designed to replicate the look of natural wicker while delivering superior performance outdoors.
Key Features
- Subtle colour variation and twisted strands for a natural appearance
- Heat, stain, scratch, and UV resistant
- Colour will not fade over time
Maintenance
- Clean using a soft brush or damp brush with water and mild detergent
- Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry
PE wicker offers excellent durability with very low maintenance requirements.
5. GLASSFIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE (GFRC) PRODUCTS
What Is GFRC Micro‑Cement?
Our GFRC (Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete) products are handcrafted structures made from reinforced concrete, finished with a micro‑cement coating that gives the surface a refined, organic appearance.
Key Characteristics & Benefits
- Handcrafted finish – Every piece has subtle variations in colour, texture and porosity
- Elegant and natural look – Designed to complement modern and minimalist spaces
- Extremely durable – Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Lightweight – Significantly lighter than traditional stone or solid concrete
- Performance-driven design – Built for strength without sacrificing style
Because each item is handcrafted, small irregularities are expected and celebrated. These differences enhance the character of the piece and do not affect its performance or durability.
Weathering & Long‑Term Exposure
When used outdoors, GFRC Micro‑Cement will naturally respond to environmental elements such as sun, rain, humidity and temperature changes. Natural weathering is normal and expected and adds to the material’s authentic, lived‑in appearance.
To maintain the surface and manage long‑term exposure:
- Understand what reasonable weathering looks like
- Follow the recommended care and maintenance practices
- Clean and seal regularly to preserve the surface finish
With proper care, GFRC Micro‑Cement products will age gracefully while maintaining their structural integrity.
Care & Maintenance Guide
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your GFRC Micro‑Cement products looking their best.
Routine Cleaning
- Clean using non‑bleach liquid dish detergent or mild soap and water
- Use a soft‑bristle brush and gentle circular motion
- Spot clean using a damp, clean cloth or brush
- Always rinse with clean water and dry immediately to avoid water spotting
⚠️ Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this may damage the protective sealant.
Optional Protection: Waxing the Surface
For added protection and a richer finish, we recommend applying carnauba wax (such as Trewax® Clear Paste Wax) every 2–5 months.
How to Apply Wax
- Lightly dampen a clean sponge or soft cotton cloth and wring it out completely
- Apply a thin layer of wax in small sections using circular motions
- Immediately remove excess wax with a dry cloth, buffing gently
- Move to the next section, slightly overlapping the previous area
This process helps protect the sealant while enhancing the surface’s natural appearance.
Usage Recommendations & Best Practices
To protect your GFRC Micro‑Cement surfaces, follow these important recommendations:
Prevent Surface Damage
- Avoid dragging or placing sharp or coarse objects directly on the surface
- Always lift items instead of dragging when repositioning
Heat Protection
- Do not place extremely hot items directly on GFRC tabletops
- Heat may cause sealant discoloration or surface rings
Use Felt Pads
- Apply felt pads to objects that remain on the surface long‑term
- Especially important for natural stone items or objects that retain moisture
Moisture & Rain Care
- Remove items such as vases, candles or planters during rainy conditions
- Standing water trapped underneath objects can mark the surface
Avoid Acidic Substances
Keep surfaces away from:
- Wine, coffee and fruit juice
- Salad dressings, olive oil and tomato sauce
These substances can damage the sealant if left sitting on the surface.
What Not to Use
- Do not use bleach‑based, ammoniated or industrial cleaners
- Avoid harsh solvents or abrasive cleaning tools
- Always rinse off cleaning residue thoroughly
Cold Climate & Winter Storage
In areas with prolonged freezing temperatures:
- Items sitting in standing water may become damaged
- We recommend covering or storing products indoors during winter months
Using Planters & Containers
When using GFRC Micro‑Cement as planters:
- Use an interior container or liner to reduce moisture contact
- Fertilizers and plant food contain minerals (e.g. iron, copper, magnesium, zinc)
- These minerals can react with water and cause staining on the surface
Outdoor Fabric & Upholstered Cushions
Outdoor cushions are made using solution‑dyed acrylic or olefin fabrics, selected for their exceptional outdoor performance.
Fabric Benefits
- Superior resistance to water, mould, and UV fading
- Designed to maintain colour and integrity longer with proper care
Care & Maintenance
- Use protective covers when cushions are not in use for extended periods
- Remove leaves, dirt, and debris regularly to avoid staining
- Clean using water and a mild detergent
Important Notes
- Do not leave cushions out during prolonged periods of rain
- If cushions do not dry completely within a few days, mould may develop
- Always allow cushions to dry thoroughly before covering or storing
Why Outdoor Furniture Care Matters
Outdoor furniture is an investment in both comfort and design. Regular cleaning, proper placement, and protective covers can dramatically extend its lifespan, even in challenging environments.
By understanding material performance and following the appropriate care guidelines, your outdoor furniture will continue to look and perform beautifully for years to come.