How To Remove Mildew From Garden Furniture

How to Remove Mildew from Garden Furniture

Mildew is a common problem for garden furniture, especially in humid climates. It can make your furniture look unsightly and uninviting, and it can also be harmful to your health. If you're dealing with mildew on your garden furniture, don't worry - there are several things you can do to remove it.

1. Identify the Type of Mildew

There are two main types of mildew that can affect garden furniture: powdery mildew and downy mildew. Powdery mildew is the most common type, and it appears as a white or gray powder on the surface of the furniture. Downy mildew is less common, and it appears as a yellow or brown discoloration on the leaves of the furniture.

2. Choose a Cleaning Method

Once you've identified the type of mildew, you can choose a cleaning method. There are several different ways to remove mildew from garden furniture, including:

Bleach solution: Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Apply the solution to the mildew with a sponge or cloth. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Vinegar solution: Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of water. Apply the solution to the mildew with a sponge or cloth. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Baking soda solution: Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Apply the solution to the mildew with a sponge or cloth. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Commercial mildew remover: Follow the instructions on the product label.

3. Apply the Cleaning Solution

Once you've chosen a cleaning method, apply the solution to the mildew. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Apply the solution liberally to the mildew, and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time.

4. Rinse the Furniture

Once the cleaning solution has had time to sit, rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water. Be sure to remove all of the cleaning solution, as it can damage the furniture if left on too long.

5. Dry the Furniture

Once the furniture has been rinsed, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel. You can also place the furniture in the sun to help it dry faster.

6. Prevent Mildew from Returning

Once you've removed the mildew from your garden furniture, you'll want to take steps to prevent it from returning. Here are a few tips:

Keep your furniture clean. Dirt and debris can provide a breeding ground for mildew.
Store your furniture in a dry place when not in use. A garage or shed is a good option.
If you live in a humid climate, consider using a mildew-resistant furniture cover.
Inspect your furniture regularly for signs of mildew. If you catch it early, you can remove it easily.