Cleaning cast aluminum outdoor furniture is not a complicated or time-consuming task. However, if you want it to look its best, regular care is essential!
This metal is no different than any other furniture material in that it requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking and functioning at its best. In this guide, we take a look at how to clean cast aluminum outdoor furniture.
What is the best way to clean cast aluminum?
The good news is that the best cast aluminum patio furniture is low maintenance and easy to clean. Start by removing any cushions. Then hose down the furniture with plain water. This will help remove any loose dirt and debris left behind by the weather or animals. In our experience, bird droppings are one of the worst enemies of metal outdoor furniture.
Here are the three steps and a few tips to help you get the job done quickly and effectively.
1. Regular cleaning
In general, clean your cast aluminum furniture every two weeks, especially if you live in a coastal region. We recommend washing with water to remove dirt, lime deposits, air pollutants, and waterline stains that might damage the surface of the cast aluminum furniture.
Removing tougher dirt
You can also use a mild soap such as dishwashing liquid to get rid of any stubborn dirt. Mix it with warm water and start cleaning. Begin by lightly scrubbing the furniture with warm, soapy water. Use a soft-bristled brush, preferably a nylon and not a metal one.
Dip the brush in the soapy water as needed and gently scrub away any dirt and grime. You don’t want to scrub too harshly, as this may do more harm than good. Remember to scrub in the direction of the aluminum grain.
For tough spots
If you have some tough dirt on your cast aluminum patio furniture, you can use a 1:1 mixture of water and distilled white vinegar to help lift it out of tough spots such as water spots. Simply spray the vinegar onto it and use a clean cloth. Another solution is to use hot water, strong soap, and a soft-bristled brush. Keep in mind that you should scrub in the direction of the grain!
For heavy-duty dirt
If you find it difficult to remove grime and tough dirt then use a specialized cast aluminum cleaner. A good rule of thumb is to avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners. Follow the instructions carefully to make sure it is done correctly.
2. Rinse it off
Once you’ve gone over the entire cast aluminum furniture with the brush and soapy water solution, use either a pressure washer or a garden hose to rinse it off. Make sure to rinse the furniture completely with clean water.
3. Wipe dry
After cleaning, make sure to dry the furniture with a clean, dry cloth. This will also help to restore its sheen and shine. To prevent water spots, do not allow water to pool/stand on the surface of the furniture. Let it dry completely!
What to do after cleaning cast aluminum patio furniture?
Cleaning is the first main step of care and maintenance. It’s important to regularly apply a coat of clear primer or sealant to keep your furniture protected and looking its best. This will help to protect it from the elements and keep it looking great all year round.
If it starts to fade check our guide about how to restore cast aluminum patio furniture. In addition, after some years you might get bored of its color. One way is to create or refresh the visual interest of your aluminum furniture by styling it. Otherwise, you can change its color. We published a guide about repainting cast aluminum patio furniture.
Before painting or restoring make sure to prime it. Priming aluminum for painting is important because it creates a surface to which the paint to adhere. It will also provide more protection from rust and corrosion.
In Sum
With the right cleaning technique, you can easily keep your cast aluminum patio furniture looking like new. It isn’t overly complicated and doesn’t take much time. Follow these steps to clean it and it will stay in excellent condition for years to come!
