Expert Reveals March Is Crucial Month for Garden Furniture Maintenance

With sunnier days approaching, a garden furniture expert has issued a timely warning that now is the perfect moment to prepare outdoor furniture for the upcoming season. Magdalena Gierasinska, a specialist from Barker and Stonehouse, emphasises that despite current cool temperatures, March represents the ideal window to refresh and protect various types of garden furniture.

Gierasinska stated: 'Good garden furniture is an investment that will serve you beautifully for years, provided it's cared for properly. The key is regular attention and simple preventive steps to keep it looking its best. However, every material has its own character, and its own care needs.'

She added that with routine care and protection from the elements, homeowners can enjoy their outdoor spaces stylishly season after season. Read on for detailed guidance on which furniture requires immediate attention to shine come summer.

Hardwood Furniture Requires Annual Attention

Hardwood remains one of the most popular materials for outdoor dining sets, but it demands specific maintenance to ensure longevity. Gierasinska explained that hardwood furniture develops a beautiful, natural character that evolves gently over time, often shifting towards a silvery grey tone even when covered.

The expert recommends:

Sanding and re-oiling at least once annually, ideally when first bringing furniture out for spring
Using a breathable, ventilated cover to protect against rainwater marks and sun fading
Storing hardwood furniture in a cool, dry, and airy space during winter months

She noted that a watertight shed or garage provides ideal winter storage conditions for these pieces.

Engineered Wood Needs Gentle Care

Caring for engineered wood and wood-printed finishes requires frequent but gentle maintenance, with March being the optimal starting point. Gierasinska emphasised that understanding different materials' needs is crucial for preserving furniture beauty.

For engineered wood:

Wipe surfaces with a damp, soapy cloth and allow complete drying before use
Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch or dull finishes
Use breathable covers when not in use and store in dry, sheltered spaces during winter
Always remove cushions first to prevent mould or moisture buildup

Teak and Acacia Demand Specialised Treatment

While teak and acacia serve as excellent outdoor furniture materials, they require proper care initiated in March. Teak's wonderful durability benefits from gentle maintenance, including washing with water and a soft brush periodically, plus using specialist cleaner once or twice yearly to restore natural tone.

Important considerations include:

Avoiding power washing that can damage wood grain
Ensuring plenty of ventilation during storage
Covering only when completely dry and removing cushions first
Using protective mats or coasters to prevent surface marks

Acacia furniture requires similar care, with additional precautions against direct sunlight or scorching heat to prevent bleaching. Gierasinska advises against storing acacia in artificially heated areas due to its sensitivity to temperature fluctuations.

Synthetic Rattan, Wicker, and Bamboo Need Regular Cleaning

Among all garden furniture materials, synthetic rattan, wicker, and bamboo products demand the most consistent attention. Regular cleaning every one to three months prevents dirt, pollen, and bacteria from collecting in weaves.

Maintenance tips include:

Using soft brushes or tweezers to remove debris from tight crevices carefully
Rinsing and drying thoroughly in well-ventilated spaces
Avoiding pressure washers or harsh detergents that can weaken finishes
Using trivets or mats for hot or cold items rather than placing directly on furniture

While most synthetic rattan withstands year-round outdoor conditions, Gierasinska recommends moving it to sheltered storage during extreme weather like high winds or freezing temperatures, as cold can make materials brittle over time. Always ensure complete drying before covering and choose breathable protection to promote airflow.

By following these expert recommendations in March, garden furniture owners can ensure their outdoor investments remain beautiful and functional throughout the summer season and beyond.