As the weather warms up, it’s time to bring your garden furniture back into action.

But after months in storage or exposure to winter elements, your chairs, tables, and loungers may be looking worse for wear.

Luckily, according to Zara O’Hare from Land of Rugs https://www.landofrugs.com/, you don’t need to spend a fortune on specialist products to restore your outdoor set-up. In fact, a few everyday ingredients, each under £2, can help you clean, refresh, and protect your garden furniture naturally.

Lemon and Salt for Mould and Mildew

“If your wooden furniture has developed green mould or dark mildew patches, lemon juice and table salt can be a powerful combination,” says O’Hare.

Lemon naturally breaks down mould while salt adds scrubbing power. Sprinkle salt over the affected areas, squeeze lemon juice on top, leave for 10 minutes, then scrub with a brush or cloth before rinsing clean.
Bicarbonate of Soda Paste for Stubborn Dirt

For plastic or metal furniture with ingrained grime, bicarbonate of soda is your best friend. Mix it with a little water to form a paste and apply it to stains or dirty patches. It lifts dirt without scratching surfaces. Use a soft cloth or sponge and rinse well with warm water.

White Vinegar Spray for Algae and Stains

Vinegar is a go-to natural cleaner and works wonders on algae-covered or stained surfaces. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, apply generously to affected areas, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe or rinse off. It’s antibacterial and cuts through build-up easily.

Olive Oil Polish for Rattan or Bamboo

To restore the shine and flexibility of rattan, wicker, or bamboo furniture, a quick wipe-down with a mix of olive oil and vinegar (1:1 ratio) can do wonders. Apply with a soft cloth and buff gently.

“It nourishes natural fibres and gives a polished finish without leaving a greasy residue.”

Coffee Grounds for Wooden Scuffs

Don’t toss your used coffee grounds just yet. They can help disguise light scratches and scuffs on dark wood furniture. Mix a spoonful with a few drops of water to form a thick paste, dab it on the scuff, leave for a few minutes, then buff with a soft cloth.

“It’s a gentle way to bring colour back to worn patches.” says Zara.

Final Tip:

Always finish by drying your furniture thoroughly, especially if it’s made of wood or metal. Moisture is the main culprit behind outdoor wear and tear.

“A few minutes of care now can save hours of scrubbing later.”

By using these simple, natural ingredients, you can bring your garden furniture back to life—and all for under £2 per item. Summer-ready doesn’t have to mean spending big.