Mesh patio chairs are a popular choice for outdoor seating because they’re comfortable and easy to clean. However, over time dirt and rain can accumulate on the mesh, making them difficult to keep looking new. In this article, we’ll show you how to clean mesh patio chairs quickly and efficiently, so they look good as new! Keep reading to learn more.
Nowadays, most people opt for mesh patio chairs because they offer a high comfort level. They are also easy to clean and maintain. But, like any other type of outdoor furniture, they can get dirty over time. When that happens, you need to know how to clean them properly to keep them looking new. Many people think that pressure washing is the best way to clean mesh patio chairs. However, this is not always the case. Pressure washing can damage the mesh material and cause it to deteriorate over time.
A Detailed Guide on How to Clean Mesh Patio Chairs
Method 1: Use a Brush and Soapy Water
The first method is pretty simple. You’ll need a brush and some soapy water. The brush will help loosen any dirt or debris stuck to the mesh, while the soapy water will break down any oils or grime.
What You’ll Need:
- A brush
- Soapy water
- A hose
Step 1: Determine the Type of Mesh
Before you start cleaning, you need to determine the mesh type on your chairs. This will help you choose the correct cleaning method and avoid damaging the material.
There Are Three Types of Mesh
- Polypropylene
- PVC
- Olefin
Step 2: Loosen the Dirt
Start by using the brush to loosen any dirt or debris stuck to the mesh. Be sure to brush in different directions to ensure that all the dirt is loosened. If there are any stubborn areas, you can use a hose to spray them down.
Step 3: Apply Soapy Water
Once the dirt is loosened, it’s time to apply some soapy water. Use a mild soap and mix it with water in a bucket. Then, using a sponge or cloth, apply the soap mixture to the mesh.
Step 4: Rinse the Soap Off
After you’ve applied the soap, rinse it off with a hose. Be sure to remove all traces of soap, as this can cause damage to the mesh.
Step 5: Let the Chairs Dry
Once you’ve rinsed off the soap, let the chairs dry in the sun or air dry them. Please do not put them back in storage until they’re completely dry, as this can lead to mildew growth.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If your chairs are made of polypropylene mesh, you can use a pressure washer to clean them. Just be sure to hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the mesh to avoid damaging it.
- You can also use a bleach solution to clean PVC and Olefin meshes. Mix one part bleach with three parts water, then apply it to the mesh with a sponge or cloth. Rinse it off with a hose and let the chairs dry in the sun.
- To prevent mildew growth, you can mix one part vinegar with four parts water and spray down the chairs after each use. This will also help repel dirt and debris.
- For extra protection, you can buy a mesh patio furniture cover. This will keep your chairs clean and dry when they’re not used.
Cleaning your mesh patio chairs doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By following these simple steps, you can keep them looking like new for years to come.
Method 2: Use Vinegar and Water
If your chairs are exceptionally grimy, you may need to use a more robust solution than soap and water. Vinegar and water are a safe, natural way to clean outdoor furniture.
What You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup of warm water
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Garden hose
Step 1: Before You Start
Before you begin cleaning your chairs, take a few minutes to assess the condition of the mesh. If the mesh is in good condition, you can proceed with cleaning it. However, if the mesh is frayed or otherwise damaged, you should replace it before proceeding.
Step 2: Make Your Solution
Mix 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup warm water, and one tablespoon dish soap in a small bowl or container.
Step 3: Clean the Chairs
Dip your sponge or cloth into the vinegar solution and use it to scrub the chairs. Be sure to focus on especially dirty areas.
Step 4: Rinse the Chairs
Rinse them off with a garden hose once you’ve finished scrubbing the chairs.
Step 5: Let the Chairs Dry
Allow the chairs to air dry completely before using them again.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If your chairs are made of aluminum, you can use a mild abrasive cleaner to remove stubborn dirt and grime.
- If you have plastic mesh chairs, avoid using harsh cleaners or scrubbing too vigorously, as this could damage the material. Instead, stick to soap and water or a vinegar solution.
- For best results, clean your mesh patio chairs regularly. After each use, a quick wipe down will help keep them looking their best.
Method 3: Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to clean mesh patio chairs. It works by absorbing dirt and grime and then breaking it down so that it can be easily removed. Baking soda effectively cleans mesh patio chairs because it is a mild abrasive. This means removing any build-up of dirt and grime without damaging the material.
What You’ll Need:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Sponge
- Brush
Step 1: Determine the Type of Dirt
The first step in cleaning mesh patio chairs is determining the type of dirt you’re dealing with. If the chairs are only lightly soiled, you can skip this step. However, if the chairs are heavily soiled, you’ll need to choose a cleaning method appropriate for the type of dirt.
Step 2: Make a Baking Soda Paste
The next step is to make a baking soda paste. To do this, mix equal parts baking soda and water. Once the paste has been made, apply it to the mesh patio chairs using a sponge or brush.
Step 3: Let the Paste Sit
Once the paste has been applied, let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the baking soda to absorb the dirt and grime.
Step 4: Rinse the Paste Away
After the paste has had a chance to work, rinse it away with a garden hose or pressure washer. Be sure to rinse the chairs thoroughly to remove all of the baking soda.
Step 5: Dry the Chairs
Once the chairs have been rinsed, allow them to air dry. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a towel to dry them off.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If the chairs are still dirty after following these steps, you may need to repeat the process.
- You can also use a commercial cleaner designed explicitly for mesh patio chairs. But, again, be sure to follow the directions on the bottle.
- If the chairs are made of aluminum, you can use vinegar to clean them. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and follow the same steps as above.
Cleaning mesh patio chairs don’t have to be a difficult task. You can easily remove any build-up of dirt and grime by using baking soda. Be sure to follow the steps above so that your chairs look new again.
Method 4: Use Bleach for Stubborn Stains
Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, but it can also damage your patio chairs if not used correctly. Follow these steps below to clean your mesh patio chairs with bleach safely.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 gallon of hot water
- 1 cup of bleach
- A large brush or sponge
- Protective gloves
Step 1: Choosing the Right Bleach
There are many types of bleach on the market today, but not all of them are created equal. For example, when cleaning mesh patio chairs with bleach, you’ll want to use chlorine-based bleach. This type of bleach is more effective at removing stains and killing bacteria.
Step 2: Prepare the Bleach Solution
Before you begin cleaning, you’ll need to prepare the bleach solution. In a large bucket, mix 1 gallon of hot water and 1 cup of bleach. Stir the solution until the bleach is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Protective Gear
When working with any cleaning agent, it’s essential to take proper safety precautions. For example, when using bleach to clean mesh patio chairs, wear protective gloves to avoid skin irritation.
Step 4: Apply the Bleach Solution
Using a large brush or sponge, apply the bleach solution to the stained areas of your mesh patio chairs. Allow the solution to sit on the stains for several minutes before rinsing it off with clean water.
Step 5: Repeat as Needed
If the stains are still visible after the first application, you may need to repeat steps 4 and 5 until they disappear.
Additional Tips and Advice
- When using bleach, always be sure to ventilate the area well to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- If you’re cleaning a large number of mesh patio chairs, you may want to consider investing in a pressure washer. Pressure washers make applying and removing the bleach solution from your chairs easy.
- Be sure to rinse your chairs thoroughly after cleaning with bleach. Residual bleach can damage the fabric on your chairs over time.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to clean mesh patio chairs take a few minutes this weekend to give them a good scrubbing. Your furniture will look better, but it will also be more comfortable to sit in. Enjoy your deck or patio space, knowing that your chairs are clean and fresh!
