30-07-2025
Tesco's 25p bathroom buy will restore patio furniture to its former glory & banishes grime from ‘hard-to-reach' spots
IF your garden furniture is looking a little worse for wear, a simple trick can revitalise it.
And all you need for this DIY hack is a budget-friendly household item.
If you're looking to refresh your patio set-up, repurposing this home essential will do the trick.
One garden furniture expert revealed that a discarded toothbrush will make all the difference in your cleaning caddy.
It can help in restoring weathered garden furniture to its former glory, and save you money on expensive cleaning products in the process.
And with the warm summer weather leading to an increase in al fresco dining and outdoor entertaining, there's no better time to transform your patio furniture.
Since the often damp conditions of the British climate can cause grime to accumulate on wooden furniture, it's important to take action sooner rather than later.
Expert opinion
"The unpredictable British weather can leave garden furniture looking less than its best at times," rarden furniture expert Bradley Spencer told GB News.
To combat dust, dirt, and grime, the pro suggested using gentle cleaning methods for wooden outdoor furniture.
And while a combination of water and mild soap on a sponge can work, dilute white vinegal solution is recommended for "tackling any stubborn dirt".
When it comes to smaller, harder-to-reach spots, an old soft-bristle toothbrush is useful.
According to the expert, it can "remove dirt and loose debris from crevices".
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But make sure you don't damage the wood by scrubbing too hard.
You can pick up a two-pack of toothbrushes for just 25p from Tesco.
After care
After cleaning treatment, give the piece of furniture a thorough rinse with fresh water to eliminate any residual product.
"A regular deep clean can not only protect the longevity and functionality of outdoor items but give them an instant makeover too," the pro said.
And quality timber products can last for decades when properly maintained.
How to clean your garden soft furnishings
CLEANING your outdoor furniture and furnishings is a relatively easy task, and requires household items already in your cupboards.
Here's what you'll need, according to gardening expert Daniela Venturini from Wayfair...
What you'll need include:
A soft bristle brush
A bucket of warm water
Mild laundry detergent or washing up liquid
White vinegar
A clean damp microfibre cloth
A clean dry towel
Clear your furniture of excess debris
Before cleaning your outdoor furniture ensure that the surfaces are free from excess debris and dirt from your garden, and remove any outdoor cushion covers where possible, as this will make the cleaning process much easier.
Wash down furniture with warm soapy water
In a bucket of warm water, add a few drops of mild laundry detergent or washing up liquid to create your cleaning solution. For any tougher stains, such as harsh water stains or mildew, apply undiluted white vinegar to any stains and let it sit for about an hour in the sun.
3. Use a soft bristle brush to rub away stains
Using a soft bristle brush, gently rub your cleaning solution onto your garden furniture in small circular movements. After scrubbing, take a clean damp microfibre cloth and ensure that all detergent and soap suds are removed from your garden furniture.
After cleaning, take a clean towel and absorb the majority of moisture off your garden furniture and then simply leave in the sun to dry.
So to keep them looking prim and proper, experts recommend giving them a thorough cleaning biannually, followed by an application of fresh sealant or protective oil.
And during colder periods, place the furniture under a protective covering or store them in a sheltered space.
"You might be surprised just how much of a difference a deep clean can make to your garden furniture and your entire outdoor space," the pro added.
He also warned against using high-pressure cleaning equipment on timber surfaces.
According to the pro, tools like pressure washers "may cause damage if not done properly".
He explained that the blasts can damage the protective coating, causing the wood to chip and, consequently, be "more vulnerable" to sun and water damage.
More on garden cleaning
Plus, a cheap £2 buy will instantly transform your garden furniture in and lift mildew stains.
And a £1 buy will transform mouldy outdoor furniture, including your cushions.
Another bathroom essential can help to clean your patio and deter pests at the same time.
A 1p hack will leave your garden furniture free of rust and streaks.
Or you can bring your mouldy garden furniture back to life using a £1 Poundland buy.
