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Lumber Care & Maintenance

Updated

How do I clean and maintain POLYWOOD lumber?

To keep your POLYWOOD lumber in top condition, follow these simple cleaning and maintenance steps.

 

Quick Cleaning Steps

Supplies Needed:

  • (Optional) Dry vacuum or soft broom
  • Mild dish soap
  • Warm water
  • Large bucket
  • Soft-bristle brush or clean cloth
  • Garden hose or clean water source for rinsing

Basic Lumber Cleaning Instructions:

  1. (Optional step) If your furniture is covered with lots of loose debris, such as leaves, dirt, or pollen, remove it with the broom or vacuum. 
  2. Mix the dish soap and water in the bucket.
  3. Use the brush or cloth to scrub the soapy water over the lumber.
  4. Rinse with clean water and allow the furniture to air-dry.

 

Sanitizing POLYWOOD Lumber

To sanitize your furniture and remove tough stains, mold, and mildew, follow these steps.

Supplies Needed:

  • Unscented liquid bleach
  • Water
  • Spray bottle or large bucket
  • Soft cloths
  • Soft-bristle brush

Lumber Sanitizing Instructions:

  1. Mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water in a spray bottle or bucket.
  2. Apply the solution to the lumber directly using the spray bottle (or cloth if you use a bucket) and let it sit for a few minutes.
  3. Gently scrub textured areas with the soft-bristle brush to remove built-up debris.
  4. Wipe the lumber clean with a damp cloth and allow it to air-dry.

Pressure Washing POLYWOOD Lumber

For a deeper clean, you can use a pressure washer on your POLYWOOD furniture.

Supplies Needed:

  • Pressure washer (rated no higher than 1,500 psi), with a 40-degree fan tip

Lumber Pressure Washing Instructions:

  1. Spray all lumber areas of your furniture with slow, even sweeps, keeping the nozzle about 8 inches from the surface.
  2. If stubborn spots persist, repeat the steps for the Quick Cleaning or Sanitizing methods outlined above.

 

Lumber Maintenance Tips

To extend the life of your POLYWOOD lumber:

  • Do not use abrasive cleaning or polishing scrubbers, such as eraser pads, on the lumber.
  • Check your furniture regularly for dirt buildup or damage, and clean it promptly to maintain its appearance.

 

Additional Information:

  • Do not pressure wash cushions, fabrics, or pillows. Refer to our Fabric Care Guide for fabric cleaning instructions.
  • Always keep the pressure washer's wand moving. Spraying one spot continuously can damage the lumber.
  • If using bleach, wear chemical-resistant gloves to protect your skin.
  • Never mix bleach with other cleaning products.
  • Don't use scented or splash-less bleach. These varieties generally contain additives that can leave residues or cause discoloration.
  • For a natural alternative to bleach, try undistilled white vinegar.
  • For more ideas and maintenance tips, visit our Care & Maintenance page.

 

 

FAQs

Q: How often should I clean my POLYWOOD lumber?
A: Clean your lumber regularly, particularly after exposure to dirt, pollen, or harsh weather. A routine cleaning every few months is typically sufficient to keep your furniture in good shape.