How To Clean Plastic Deck Chairs: A Personal Experience
Summer is here, and it’s time to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. One of my favorite things to do is sit outside on my plastic deck chairs and soak up some rays. But after a long winter of neglect, my chairs were looking pretty grimy. I decided it was time to give them a good cleaning, and I learned a lot about how to clean plastic deck chairs in the process.
The Basics of Cleaning Plastic Deck Chairs
Before you start cleaning your plastic deck chairs, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Plastic chairs are a popular choice for outdoor furniture because they are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. However, over time, they can become stained, discolored, and even develop mildew.
The good news is that cleaning plastic deck chairs is a simple process that can be done with a few common household items. You’ll need:
- Vinegar or dish soap
- Baking soda
- A scrub brush or sponge
- A hose or bucket of water
Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Plastic Deck Chairs
Follow these simple steps to get your plastic deck chairs looking like new:
- Remove any loose dirt or debris from the chairs with a brush or broom.
- Mix a solution of 1 cup vinegar or 1 tablespoon dish soap and 1 gallon of water.
- Dip a scrub brush or sponge into the solution and scrub the chairs thoroughly, paying extra attention to any stained or discolored areas.
- Rinse the chairs with a hose or bucket of water to remove the cleaning solution.
- If there are any stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda on the affected area and scrub with a brush or sponge. Rinse with water.
- Allow the chairs to dry completely in the sun before using them again.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Cleaning Plastic Deck Chairs
Here are some additional tips and ideas for cleaning plastic deck chairs:
- Use a pressure washer on a low setting for an even deeper clean.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to the cleaning solution for a fresh scent.
- Use a magic eraser to remove scuff marks and other stubborn stains.
- For mildew, mix 1/3 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water and scrub the chairs with a brush or sponge. Rinse with water.
- Try using a steam cleaner for an eco-friendly cleaning option.
- Use a car wax or furniture polish to protect the chairs from future stains and discoloration.
- If you’re short on time, use a pre-made cleaning solution specifically designed for plastic furniture.
- Clean your chairs at least once a year to keep them looking their best.
- Store your chairs in a dry, shaded area during the winter months to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Consider investing in chair covers to protect your chairs from the elements and reduce the need for cleaning.
Pros and Cons of Cleaning Plastic Deck Chairs
Like any cleaning task, there are pros and cons to cleaning plastic deck chairs.
Pros:
- Easy and inexpensive to clean.
- Can be done with common household items.
- Keeps chairs looking new and extends their lifespan.
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming, especially if chairs are heavily stained or mildewed.
- May require multiple cleanings to remove stubborn stains.
- Some cleaning solutions may be harsh and can damage the chairs if not used correctly.
My Personal Review and Suggestion for Cleaning Plastic Deck Chairs
After cleaning my plastic deck chairs using the steps and tips outlined above, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and effective the process was. My chairs went from looking dingy and worn to bright and shiny in no time. I highly recommend using a vinegar or dish soap solution for general cleaning, and baking soda for stubborn stains. The addition of essential oils made my chairs smell great, and using a furniture polish helped protect them from future stains and discoloration.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I use a power washer to clean my plastic deck chairs?
A: Yes, but be sure to use a low setting to avoid damaging the chairs.
Q: How often should I clean my plastic deck chairs?
A: It’s recommended to clean your chairs at least once a year, but more often if they are heavily used or exposed to the elements.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my plastic deck chairs?
A: Yes, but be sure to dilute the bleach with water and use caution when handling it. Never mix bleach with other cleaning solutions.
Q: Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my plastic deck chairs?
A: Yes, but be sure to use a low setting and avoid holding the steam too close to the chairs to prevent damage.