Now that you've found the perfect bench, the question is how to maintain it for the best possible longevity. Depending on the material, there are different ways to care for your outdoor bench, however, a little soap and water can work wonders on any type of outdoor bench.
Water world
Many people find that using a power washer on a low setting does a fantastic job of keeping an outdoor storage bench clean with minimal scrubbing required. If a power washer isn't in your budget, you can use a regular garden hose and a soft- to medium-bristle brush to help clean out the grooves and crevices that dirt likes to hide in. First you'll want to spray down your bench with water. Then with a few drops of soap mixed in a gallon of water, scrub the garden bench to work all the debris out. Rinse with water from your hose, being careful to rinse all soap residue off completely, to avoid a soapy film buildup.
Finish up
If you have a wooden bench, wood cleaner is also a good option for maintenance. Just be sure to let your wooden bench dry completely before applying any finish. Depending on the look you want in your outdoor bench, refinishing can be helpful on a routine basis, or just when you think you need an updated look. Many people enjoy the naturally weathered look of a bench that hasn't been refinished. |  |
House of wax
For a metal bench, soap and water will usually do the trick. Most metal benches today are made to be rust-resistant, but for a little extra TLC, you might want to use pasted wax or naval jelly to bring out shine and help preserve your wrought iron bench.
Cushion care
Always remove any bench cushions from your outdoor bench before cleaning. Most bench cushions can be spot-cleaned with a little soap and water. To treat mildew, spray a solution of 2 cups detergent, 1 cup bleach, and 1 gallon of water over your bench cushion and allow it to soak for half an hour. Then wipe the surface clean with a rag and rinse entire cushion thoroughly with water.
With these simple steps, you'll be able to enjoy your beautiful outdoor bench for years to come.
