To keep your aluminum furniture and wrought iron furniture looking its best for years to come, we recommend some minimal care. Use the information below as a guide for spot cleaning your metal outdoor furniture.
Aluminum is an ideal material for outdoor furniture. It is strong, non-rusting, and retains its good looks through blistering summer suns, drenching thunderstorms, and vigorous romping children. Quality aluminum furniture is durable and can last for a decade or more. It is lightweight, making it easy to move, and requires minimal maintenance.
Regular washing and thorough rinsing of the aluminum frame with mild liquid detergent and warm water will remove surface dirt, outdoor contaminants and body oils. The periodic application of a good automobile wax on aluminum frame (smooth finishes only) will help extend the life and beauty of your outdoor furniture. Do not wash your furniture by placing it into the swimming pool or use any harsh abrasives or cleaning solutions and do not store your furniture or table tops in a position that will allow moisture to accumulate inside the tubing or on the top where it may freeze during the winter months.
On textured finishes, periodically apply mineral or baby oil. The multi-step finishing process results in a stain resistant finish. Severe stains may require light sanding and touch-up painting. The finish is formulated and baked on to make it highly resistant to insect repellents and suntan lotions. To avoid discoloration, clean the frame as soon as possible after exposure to these chemicals.
Wrought iron is pure iron that is combined with a glass-like material that, when heated, can be hammered into shape. Outdoor furniture from Summer Classics and others, are hand forged with superior steel, using the same process as blacksmithing. The results create a textured mill scale finish, the same texture found in fine antique iron ornaments and horseshoes.
Clean with warm, soapy water. Damage to the paint finish may cause corrosion, touch up with paint immediately. To maintain the gloss on non-textured finishes, protect with a fine automotive wax. On textured finishes, periodically apply mineral or baby oil. Severe stains may require light sanding and touch-up painting. The finish is formulated and baked on to make it highly resistant to repellents and lotions. To avoid discoloration, clean the frame as soon as possible after exposure to these chemicals. In cold climates, be sure to drain any water accumulated inside the frames before storing for the winter.