Outdoor Table Care & Maintenance

How to Clean and Care for Your Outdoor Table (Through Every Season)

Sun, rain, pollen, and food spills all take a toll on outdoor furniture. A little seasonal care keeps your table looking new and standing strong for years instead of seasons.

The regular wipe-down

Wipe the table with mild soapy water and a soft cloth every week or two, and clean up food and drink spills as they happen. Regular cleaning stops grime, pollen, and stains from building up and becoming hard to remove.

Care by material

• Aluminium: wash with mild soap; dry to avoid water spots — no rust worries.
• Teak & hardwood: clean gently and oil once or twice a year to keep the colour and prevent drying.
• Wrought iron & steel: watch for chips in the coating; touch up rust spots quickly to stop spread.
• Glass tops: use glass cleaner for a streak-free finish; check fixings are tight.
• Resin/rattan: rinse with a hose and wipe; avoid harsh abrasives.

Protect it from the weather

• Use a fitted, breathable cover when the table isn’t in use.
• Store or cover it over winter, or bring folding tables indoors.
• Keep wooden tables out of constant direct sun to limit fading.

Keep it steady and safe

• Check and tighten bolts and fixings at the start of each season.
• Replace worn leg caps and re-level wobbly legs with pads.
• Inspect glass tops for chips and cracks before heavy use.