CARE & MAINTENANCE
Extruded Aluminum
(Brown Jordan, Gloster, Kettler, Meadow Decor, Maze Lounge, Sunvilla, Patio Renaissance)
Aluminum is an ideal material for outdoor furniture. It is strong, non-rusting, low maintenance and very resistant to the weather. Below are a few guidelines, which, if followed, will allow you to enjoy your furniture for many years.
Care & Maintenance
Frames and Finishes
Apply a coat of non-hazing automotive paste wax at the start of each season as well as before putting your furniture away at the end of the season. Wipe down the frames occasionally with water mixed with liquid detergent and rinse thoroughly afterwards. During winter storage, do not store the frames upside down as damage may occur from water freezing inside the tubing.
Many stains can be removed with mild soap (Liquid Ivory or Joy) and water. Use “Soft Scrub” to remove more stubborn stains and light scratches. Industry cleaners are also available.
Touch-up nicks and scratches promptly. When using touch-up paints, please follow instructions and cautions on product labels. Begin by rubbing lightly with a fine steel wool to smooth the surface and improve paint adhesion. Apply thin coats of touch-up paint and allow ample drying time between coats. When complete, wax repaired area with a non-hazing automotive paste wax.
Spray WD 40 oil on chair swivels and glides twice a season to maintain the free movement.
Straps and Lacing
Strapping should be cleaned regularly with a mild soap or detergent and warm water or with a water and ammonia mixture (1 cup ammonia per 3 gallons of water). Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Certain suntan lotions, blocks and insect repellents can permanently discolour vinyl. This problem can be minimized by cleaning the vinyl immediately after contact with an ammonia mixture. (*Use of a beach towel over the vinyl will prolong its life in these situations).
To remove scuffmarks on vinyl straps, apply toothpaste or a gentle commercial non-abrasive cleaner (Bon Ami or Vim) to a clean, slightly damp cloth and rub gently. Restore shine with a non-hazing automotive paste wax. To remove mildew, use a solution of warm water, mild laundry detergent and chlorine bleach (no more than 1 cup to 3 gallons of water). Do not use solvents, scouring agents, carbon tetrachloride, undiluted bleach, janitorial cleaners or gasoline. If in doubt about using a detergent and/or wax choose an inconspicuous area to test the product.
Vinyl Coated Polyester Weaves (slings)
It is important that the sling fabric be cleaned regularly. For best results, gently scrub weekly with mild detergent and warm water. (If you have trouble including this in your schedule, try to make time to hose down your furniture weekly with your garden hose). Regular cleaning will help prevent the possibility of mildew by washing out dirt particles that become trapped in the weave. Allow the furniture to dry thoroughly before storing for the winter.
Stains and mildews can be removed with a solution of warm water, mild laundry detergent (Ivory) and chlorine bleach (no more than 1 cup to 3 gallons of water). Refer to “Vinyl Strap” instructions for greater detail. Always rinse thoroughly after any cleaning.
Certain suntan lotions and insect repellants may permanently discolour any fabric. Cleaning the fabric immediately after contact can minimize this problem. Again refer to “Vinyl Strap” instructions for greater details. Covering the fabric with a towel while tanning is recommended.
Table Tops – Acrylic
Wash acrylic table tops periodically with a mild soap or detergent (Liquid Ivory or Joy) and rinse thoroughly after cleaning. DO NOT use cleaners containing ammonia or solvents. With a lint free, clean cloth, buff dry. Avoid using solvents, scouring agents, janitorial cleaners or gasoline.
Table Tops – Glass
Clean glass table tops regularly with a soft cloth, mild detergent (Liquid Ivory or Joy), vinegar and warm water. With a lint free, clean cloth, buff dry. Commercial glass cleaners may also be used. Avoid using solvents, scouring agents, janitorial cleaners or gasoline.
The use of furniture covers when the furniture is not in use over an extended period of time will minimize the necessity for additional cleaning and extend its life.