Mildew is an unsightly and smelly fungus that can quickly take over outdoor furniture. It thrives in damp, warm and humid environments, which makes it difficult to keep out of your outdoor furniture if you live in an area with a lot of moisture. Mildew can also cause damage to your furniture, so it’s important to remove it as soon as you notice it.
The first step in getting rid of mildew from your outdoor furniture is to clean the surface with soap and water. You can use a sponge or scrub brush to gently scrub the surface until all of the visible mildew is gone. Make sure that you don’t use too much pressure when scrubbing, as this could damage the finish on your furniture.
Once you’ve removed the visible mildew, you’ll need to treat the surface with a fungicide or mildicide. These solutions are available at most hardware stores and should be applied according to the instructions on the label. After applying the solution, let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with clean water.
To help prevent mildew from coming back, make sure to keep your outdoor furniture dry. If possible, you should move pieces away from areas where moisture accumulates such as near sprinklers or swimming pools. After cleaning your furniture with soap and water, consider applying a protective sealant or coating that will help repel moisture.
Conclusion: Getting rid of mildew from outdoor furniture can be a challenge but with some diligent cleaning and preventive measures, you can have your furniture looking like new again in no time. Start by cleaning off any visible mildew with soap and water, then treat the surface with a fungicide or mildicide solution before rinsing off thoroughly. Finally, protect your furniture by keeping it dry and applying a protective sealant or coating when necessary.
