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:
- (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.
- Mix the dish soap and water in the bucket.
- Use the brush or cloth to scrub the soapy water over the lumber.
- 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:
- Mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water in a spray bottle or bucket.
- 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.
- Gently scrub textured areas with the soft-bristle brush to remove built-up debris.
- 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:
- Spray all lumber areas of your furniture with slow, even sweeps, keeping the nozzle about 8 inches from the surface.
- 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.