How Do You Clean Outdoor Painted Wood Furniture?

Outdoor wood furniture, such as chairs and tables, can really spruce up any outdoor living space. But when it comes time to clean outdoor painted wood furniture, it’s important to do so correctly in order to preserve its appearance and function.

The first step is to assess the condition of the furniture. Is the paint chipping or flaking?

If so, it’s best to sand the entire piece down with fine-grit sandpaper until the old paint is completely removed. Once that’s done, use a damp rag to wipe off any dust and debris created by sanding.

If the paint on your outdoor wood furniture looks intact, then you can simply scrub it with a sponge and mild detergent like dish soap. Make sure you rinse off any suds that form as you clean with a garden hose or bucket of water.

Deeper Cleaning
For more stubborn stains like oil or grease, use a mixture of vinegar and water. Apply this mixture directly onto the stain using a soft cloth and let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge. Once you’ve cleaned off all of the residue, rinse with water.

Sealing
Once your furniture is clean, it’s important to seal it in order to protect against weather damage and extend its lifespan. Use an exterior-grade sealer designed specifically for painted wood surfaces; apply two coats according to instructions on the packaging.

Maintenance
Finally, keep your outdoor painted wood furniture looking its best by giving it regular maintenance. Wash away dirt and debris every couple of weeks with a damp cloth, and apply a new coat of sealer every year or two.


In conclusion, cleaning outdoor painted wood furniture is an easy process but requires special attention due to its vulnerable nature against weather damage. Sanding down old paint before cleaning is essential in order for dirt and debris not to get stuck underneath existing layers of paint. After cleaning and sealing appropriately, maintain your outdoor painted wood furniture regularly by washing away dirt with a damp cloth and applying new coats of sealers every year or two.

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Alex Wright