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Before you stash that hammock, take time to clean it first. Spots on outdoor furniture will be easier to remove now than next spring. Plus, timely cleaning ensures you'll have attractive pieces that can be pulled out of storage and used on those occasional warm winter days.
- Basic cleaning: Using a nylon-bristle brush, wash dingy umbrellas or cushions with a mild hand dishwashing soap; then rinse thoroughly and air dry. Cool water is preferable for cushions because most of the fabric on outdoor furniture is not preshrunk. Use hot water to clean vinyl strapping and vinyl-coated fabrics, and seal with a vinyl protectant.
- Brown spotting on chaise lounges: These spots, a chemical reaction to the sun's ultraviolet rays, are easy to remove with hot soapy water if you catch them when they first appear. Once they get on straps, however, they are impossible to remove.
- Rust spots: To remove light rust spots from wrought-iron furniture, apply a rust dissolver with a metal brush; then apply a primer and touch-up paint.
- Hammocks: Both polyester and cotton hammocks need extra care to survive a cold, wet winter. Submerge the hammock in a bathtub filled with warm water. Scrub away any grimy spots or blights with mild dishwashing detergent and a nylon-bristle brush. Allow the hammock to air dry fully. Then put it away in a dry, sheltered place. Don't roll it up or you may find mildew when you unfurl it next spring. Instead, fold it in half and hang it by its end rings.
- Wood furniture: Gently wipe away surface dirt with a mild all-purpose cleaner or sand away embedded grime. Follow with exterior penetrating oil to keep the surface looking lustrous.
- Umbrellas: While some set covers have slits to allow a wrapped umbrella to stay put, it's best to bring the umbrella inside for winter. A strong wind can wreak havoc with an umbrella — even when it's down.
- Chairs: Stack or place chairs where they won't blow away during fierce storms.
- Grills: Clean and cover your grill and move it to a protected place.
Now go make yourself a nice cup of tea.
