How To Remove Mildew From Wood Patio Furniture

How to Remove Mildew From Wood Patio Furniture

Mildew is a common problem for wood patio furniture, especially in humid climates. It can cause the wood to become discolored, weakened, and even rot. If you have mildew on your wood patio furniture, don't worry! There are a few simple steps you can take to remove it and keep your furniture looking its best.

What Causes Mildew?

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows in moist, shady areas. It thrives on organic matter, such as wood, and can quickly spread if not treated. Mildew spores are always present in the air, but they only become active when they find a suitable environment to grow. Conditions that promote mildew growth include:

High humidity
Lack of sunlight
Poor air circulation
Moisture or condensation on the furniture

How to Remove Mildew From Wood Patio Furniture

To remove mildew from wood patio furniture, you will need the following:

A soft brush or sponge
A bucket of warm water
A mild detergent
A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 4 parts water)
A garden hose or pressure washer

Once you have gathered your supplies, follow these steps:

Prepare the cleaning solution:

In the bucket of warm water, add a few drops of mild detergent. Stir to combine. 2.

Apply the cleaning solution to the furniture:

Using the soft brush or sponge, apply the cleaning solution to the mildewed areas of the furniture. Be sure to scrub gently to avoid damaging the wood. 3.

Rinse the furniture:

Once you have applied the cleaning solution, rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water from a garden hose or pressure washer. 4.

Apply the bleach solution:

If the mildew is still visible after rinsing, you can apply a bleach solution to the affected areas. To make a bleach solution, mix 1 part bleach with 4 parts water. Apply the bleach solution to the mildewed areas and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. 5.

Rinse the furniture again:

Once the bleach solution has sat for 10-15 minutes, rinse the furniture thoroughly again with clean water. 6.

Dry the furniture:

Once the furniture has been rinsed, allow it to dry completely in the sun or in a well-ventilated area.

Prevention Tips

Once you have removed the mildew from your wood patio furniture, it is important to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are a few tips:

Keep your furniture clean: Regular cleaning will remove dirt and debris that can attract mildew.
Store your furniture in a dry place: When not in use, store your furniture in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Cover your furniture: If you cannot store your furniture in a dry place, cover it with a tarp or furniture cover.
Avoid using harsh chemicals: Using harsh chemicals to clean your furniture can damage the wood and make it more susceptible to mildew.

By following these tips, you can remove mildew from your wood patio furniture and keep it looking its best for years to come.