SPRING CLEANING

It’s been a long winter for all of us—even in parts of the country that aren’t accustomed to prolonged periods of cold. And for those parts of the country, in particular the South, it may be that much of the outdoor spaces which typically get regular use have become messy and are in need of spring cleaning. Debris and particulates from the fallen snow that has melted, or from heavy rains, may have left unfamiliar stains on cushion fabrics, furniture frames, tabletops and paving or decking surfaces. These can all be cleaned.

CUSHION FABRIC

Cushions that have been left outside for the season are inevitably dirty and often have mildew. Sunbrella fabric has a Soil and Stain resistant finish. Before cleaning cushions brush off any excess debris and particulates, Cushions can be cleaned with a solution of warm water and mild liquid soap. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry. For stubborn stains such as suntan lotion, a solution of ½ cup of bleach and 2 cap fulls of natural soap per gallon of water can be sprayed on affected areas and allowed to soak in. Then scrub it with a sponge or soft brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Allow it to air dry. To prolong the life and vibrancy of your cushions a protective fabric spray is available.

FURNITURE FRAMES

Aluminum, Stainless, Resin wicker, recycled Plastic and PVC frames can all be sprayed off with a hose or wiped with a wet cloth. Teak or other wood may be gently power washed prior to applying any oils or varnishes to restore the wood luster.

TABLETOPS

Glass, plastic, aluminum, stone or tile surfaces can be wiped clean. First a mild soap in hot water solution should be poured over the surface so as to completely cover it. Then with terry cloths at the ready, absorb the water and wipe clean. Do not scrub! This will set any dirt into the micro pores of the material. Anything that does not come off with this mild soap solution should be cleaned with a cleaning product appropriate for the the surface.

PAVING/DECKING

A good power wash is a good idea at the beginning of every season, no matter what the winter has been like. There are excellent cleaning solutions that can be applied and let to soak, depending on how intense the staining of the material is.

CUSHIONS

The life of outdoor cushions will depend on the type of fabric, use and care of the cushions. When the cushions finally need to be retired see our easy measuring guide, fabric choices and cushion styles.

Chris Myers is an award winning creative director and founder of Just Terraces. His background as a set designer and art director with The Walt Disney Company give him the skills to evaluate the possibilities and make outdoor dreams reality. Chris’s degree in Landscape Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design ensures he approaches design with a fine art sensibility and with limitless ideas. Chris has designed a line of planters and furniture that have been featured in New York Spaces and Traditional Home magazines and the 2009 Hamptons Show House.