How to Clean Your Outdoor Furniture the Eco-Friendly Way (and Why It’s Worth It)
5 minute read
Outdoor furniture does more than just decorate a space—it turns patios, balconies, and gardens into relaxing extensions of your home. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the morning, hosting lunch with friends, or winding down on sunny afternoons, it adds comfort and enjoyment to everyday life.
But rain, dust, and time can take a toll on these pieces. To keep them looking their best, regular cleaning is essential—especially after winter or wet weather.
At ECOS, we believe keeping things clean shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. That’s why we’re sharing a few simple ways to care for your furniture in a more responsible and effective way.
- Choose safer cleaning options
Avoid cleaning with products that have harsh chemicals—they’re tough on materials and can wash harmful residues into our waterways. Look for cleaners that have plant-derived ingredients and are third-party verified for their safety. You can also make your own with household ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, or unscented soap.
- Reuse water when you can
When rinsing or washing your furniture, try using collected rainwater or even water left over from rinsing produce. It’s a small change that helps conserve one of our most important resources. Be sure to check your local rainwater collection laws for any restrictions.
- Switch to reusable tools
Trade disposable paper towels for washable cloths, wooden brushes, or plant-fiber sponges. They last longer and create less waste.
Care Tips by Material
- Wood
Start by wiping down with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly to prevent moisture damage. Follow up with ECOS Furniture Cleaner + Polish – Olive Oil & Citrus, which conditions the surface without harming the environment. If the wood looks dry, rub in a thin layer of natural plant-based oil. - Metal
For wrought iron or metal pieces, ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner made with a base of plant-powered ingredients works well. You can also use diluted white vinegar to remove rust. Dry completely to prevent corrosion.
- Rattan or Natural Fibers
Clean with a soft brush and soapy water. Don’t soak it. A diluted mix of ECOS Dish Soap is ideal for natural fibers like rattan or wicker. - Recycled or Synthetic Plastic
Mix ECOS Dish Soap with water, vinegar, or lemon juice to cut through dirt and bring back shine.
- Glass
For glass tabletops, ECOS Window Cleaner – Vinegar is your go-to for a streak-free finish. - Cushions and Covers
These easily trap pollen, dust, and moisture. Cleaning them helps them last longer and keeps odors at bay.
- Check the label – See if they’re machine washable. If not, hand wash with a soft sponge and mild cleaner.
- Vacuum first – Remove dust and debris before washing so it doesn’t set into the fabric.
- Use gentle laundry soap – Wash with cold or warm water and ECOS Hypoallergenic Enzyme Laundry Detergent, made without dyes or synthetic scents.
- Skip fabric softeners and bleach – These break down fibers and pollute water.
- Air dry outdoors – Let them dry in the shade to prevent fading.
- Refresh between washes – Lightly mist with ECOS Stain + Odor Remover to freshen up fabrics in between full washes.
- Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs tie the whole space together, and they need regular upkeep too.- Vacuum to remove dirt and leaves.
- Wash with cold water and a little ECOS Dish Soap using a soft-bristled brush.
- Rinse with minimal water—collected or reused water is best. You can also hose off synthetic rugs, but use water sparingly.
- Let them dry fully before putting them back.
- Artificial Grass
Whether it’s a small patch on your terrace or a larger area in the yard, this surface needs care too.- Sweep or rake up leaves and debris.
- Wash with a diluted mix of ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner and gently scrub.
- Rinse with a light splash of water and allow to air dry.
Small Changes, Big Difference
Protect and store – When not in use, cover furniture with reusable covers made from repurposed materials or store it indoors. This helps it last longer and cuts down on how often you’ll need to clean.
Repair before replacing – A torn cushion or loose board doesn’t mean it’s time to toss it. Many items can be fixed with a little effort, saving money and resources.
With ECOS and a few thoughtful habits, your outdoor furniture—from cushions to covers—will always be ready for sunny days. At ECOS, we believe home care should support a more mindful lifestyle. Caring for your furniture with intention is one small way to reduce your impact while enjoying every moment outside.
Got your ECOS outdoor cleaning kit ready? Let’s make your furniture shine—responsibly!