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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.

 

Cleaning Steps

Supplies Needed:

  • Dry vacuum cleaner
  • Mild dish soap
  • Bucket (about 1-2 gallons capacity)
  • Soft-bristle brush or washcloth
  • (Optional) Liquid bleach

Basic Lumber Cleaning Instructions:

  1. Remove loose dirt and debris with a dry vacuum.
  2. Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket.
  3. (Optional): To sanitize, add bleach to the mixture. Recommended ratio: 1 part bleach to 2 parts water.
  4. Apply the soapy water to the lumber and let it sit for a few minutes.
  5. Use a soft-bristle brush or cloth to scrub the surfaces, loosening any dirt or debris.
  6. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the furniture 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 remain, repeat the manual cleaning steps 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.
  • For a natural alternative to bleach, try using 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.