How to Remove Stains From Patio Furniture the Right Way, According to Experts

Outdoor seating, particularly patio furniture, is a key component of any alfresco hosting setup. But as with anything that traditionally sits outside (or is frequently used), patio furniture gets dingy impressively quickly. “Outdoor stains are part and parcel of garden living,” says Lowri Allpress, owner of Jo Alexander Garden Furniture. Think, everything from ketchup stains from your last BBQ to sap dripping off your trees—and it can all throw a wrench in your summertime gatherings.

As it does on your indoor pieces, stain removal on patio furniture boils down to the chemistry of pairing the proper solution to the specific material and mess at hand. "Whether it’s a splash of red wine, a dribble of sunscreen, or the inevitable patches of mold after a wet spell, I’ve seen it all," says Allpress. "The key is knowing your material and acting with a bit of care and patience."

How to Best Treat Patio Furniture Stains

Understanding both the composition of the stain and the material of your patio furniture itself is vital in successfully removing the blemish. “Material always matters,” says cleaning professional Scott Schrader.

"Cleaning teak? Always plan to use some type of soft brush with an oxygenated cleaning product. Cleaning powder-coated metal? Stick with a soft, non-abrasive sponge only," Schrader explains. "Plastic or resin? I like to use a Magic Eraser and avoid scrubbing with too much pressure."

Common Patio Furniture Stains and Treatment

Sunscreen, mildew, food grease, and pollen are all common stains on this type of furniture. If the mess is fresh, Schrader recommends blotting—not rubbing—it. Rubbing a fresh stain can push the stain further into the material, and steer clear of steel wool and stiff wire brushes to avoid damage.

For stains that have sat a while, consider pre-treating the spot. “Pre-treat the stain with dish soap diluted with white vinegar, let it dwell for 10-15 minutes, then rinse out detergent and vinegar mix,” Schrader suggests.

With all that mind, find your specific stain below and treat as follows. When finished with treatment, consider applying a fabric guard or UV protectant once your patio furniture is completely dry. This will help protect it against future stains and discoloring.

How to Remove Grease From Patio Furniture

If you find oily sunscreen stains or remnants of last week’s cookout lingering on your patio furniture cushions, pay close attention. “Sunscreen and oil-based stains in general are always a bit tricky to remove as these tend to penetrate fabric and leave a residue,” cleaning and laundry expert Alicia Sokolowski explains. “To successfully get rid of these stubborn stains, use a degreasing dish soap or cornstarch to lift the oil before washing.”

Materials Needed:

• Dish soap or a gentle all-purpose cleaner
• Soft cleaning brush
• Water 
• Baking soda (or cornstarch)
• Microfiber towel
• Vacuum

Instructions:

1. First, blot the stain with the microfiber towel. (This is especially important when preparing fresh stains for removal.)
2. Sprinkle baking soda (or cornstarch) onto the stain, allowing it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
3. Apply a moderate amount of dish soap or all-purpose cleaner to the stain.
4. Gently scrub with a soft cleaning brush or an old toothbrush.
5. Rinse the area with water and allow to air-dry in the sun. 

How to Remove Mold and Mildew From Patio Furniture

If you live in a particularly humid or warm area, your patio furniture may be more susceptible to mold and mildew growth. “Mold and mildew on foam cushions are especially tricky because they can also grow inside,” Sokolowski explains. “If the covers of your cushions are removable, wash them separately and allow the cushions to dry completely, ideally in direct sunlight.”

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar
• Water 
• Oxygen bleach* (optional)
• Soft-bristled scrub brush

*Check the care tag of your patio furniture before use.

Instructions:

1. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water. For tougher jobs, Sokolowski recommends using oxygen bleach instead of vinegar. (Avoid chlorine bleach, which can damage fabric and other finishes.) 
2. Apply your mixture to the stain.
3. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Using the soft brush, scrub the surface.
5. Rinse the stain off. 
6. Allow the area to dry in direct sunlight. 

How to Remove Tree Sap from Patio Furniture 

If your patio furniture is located underneath the shade of trees, you may notice a sticky substance coating the cushioning. This is tree sap, which can be particularly tough to remove. Fortunately, Sokolowski is here to give you the 4-1-1 on cleaning sap off your patio furniture. 

Materials Needed:

• Coconut or olive oil
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Gentle soap
• Soft scrub brush, or an old toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

1. Rub a small amount of olive or coconut oil on the sap.
2. While the oil sits, create a paste of equal parts water and baking soda. 
3. Using the baking soda paste and a soft scrub brush (or toothbrush), gently scrub the sap stain.
4. To rinse, combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the vinegar-water mixture all over the baking soda paste.
5. Wipe everything clean with a microfiber cloth and warm, soapy water. 

How to Remove Rust From Metal Patio Furniture 

Rust occurs when oxygen meets moisture, and it can make patio furniture appear old and dingy in no time. But don’t trash your rusty patio furniture just yet: There’s still hope for restoration. 

Materials Needed:

• Water
• Baking soda
• Soft-bristled scrub brush
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

1. Apply a mixture of equal parts baking soda and water to the rusty areas of your patio furniture.
2. Scrub gently with a soft scrub brush. (An old toothbrush will work just fine.)
3. Rinse the area with water.
4. Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth. 

How to Remove Bird Droppings From Patio Furniture 

While a tad gross, bird droppings are nothing to sweat over. You can remove their stains and clean your patio furniture with this simple method.

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloth
• Gentle all-purpose soap or dishwashing liquid

Instructions:

1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and add the mixture to a spray bottle.
2. Spray the spot and let it sit for 10 minutes. 
3. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth.
4. Rinse well with soapy water.