How to Clean Your Plastic Furniture with Vinegar

Plastic furniture is a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to its durability and low maintenance. However, over time, it can become stained and dirty, especially when exposed to the elements. Fortunately, there is a simple and effective solution to restore the shine and cleanliness of your plastic furniture: vinegar! In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of cleaning your plastic furniture with vinegar, leaving it looking as good as new.

Gather Your Supplies

• Distilled white vinegar
• Water
• Bucket
• Spray bottle
• Cloth or sponge
• Rubber gloves
• Baking soda (optional)

To make the cleaning solution, mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of water in a bucket. You can also add a few drops of dish soap for extra cleaning power. Fill a spray bottle with the solution and spray it on the plastic furniture. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe it off with a cloth or sponge. Rinse with water and let it dry.

If you have stubborn stains or oxidation marks on your plastic furniture, you can use baking soda to remove them. Sprinkle some baking soda on a damp sponge and gently scrub the affected areas. Rinse well and dry.

Mix Your Cleaning Solution

Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to mix your cleaning solution. Fill the spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. This mixture will be your secret weapon against stubborn stains and grime.

You will need the following ingredients:

• Distilled white vinegar
• Water
• Dish soap (optional)

Depending on the type and condition of your plastic furniture, you can adjust the ratio of vinegar and water to make a stronger or milder solution. Here are some general guidelines:

• For mildew stains, mix 3/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of water.
• For persistent stains, use pure vinegar without diluting it².
• For coloured plastic furniture, mix 1/4 gallon of warm water with 1/4 cup of vinegar. You can also add a few drops of dish soap for extra cleaning power.
• For oxidation marks, mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of water.

To make the cleaning solution, combine the vinegar and water in a bucket and stir well. If you are using dish soap, add it to the mixture and swish it around. Fill a spray bottle with the solution and spray it on the plastic furniture. Alternatively, you can use a cloth or sponge soaked in the solution to wipe the furniture. Let the solution sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with water and dry.

Prep Your Furniture

Before you start spraying your furniture, give it a quick wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will make the cleaning process more effective and prevent scratching the surface of your furniture.

You will need to do the following steps:

• Remove any cushions, pillows, or covers from your plastic furniture and set them aside. You can wash them separately according to their fabric type and care instructions.
• Brush off any loose dirt, dust, or debris from your plastic furniture using a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth. This will make the cleaning process easier and more effective.
• Rinse your plastic furniture with a hose or a bucket of water to remove any remaining dirt or grime. Make sure to wet the entire surface of the furniture, especially the crevices and corners where dirt can accumulate.
• Place your plastic furniture on a flat surface, preferably in a shaded area, to avoid direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the vinegar solution to evaporate too quickly, reducing its cleaning power.

Your plastic furniture is now ready to be cleaned with vinegar. Follow the instructions in the Mix Your Cleaning Solution and Apply the Vinegar Solution sections to complete the cleaning process.

Apply the Vinegar Solution

Once your furniture is prepped, it’s time to spray it with the vinegar solution. Be generous with your spraying, making sure to cover all the stained areas. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will help to kill any bacteria or mould that may have accumulated on your furniture.

Let it Sit

After applying the vinegar solution, let it sit on the furniture for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the vinegar time to break down the stains and grime, making it easier to remove.

Scrub Away

Using a scrub brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the stained areas in a circular motion. The bristles of the brush will help to lift the dirt and stains, while the vinegar will work its magic to dissolve them. For stubborn stains, you may need to apply a bit more pressure, but be careful not to damage the surface of the furniture.

Rinse and Dry

Once you’re satisfied with the results, rinse off the furniture with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar solution. You can use a hose or a bucket of water for this step. After rinsing, use a soft cloth or towel to dry the furniture thoroughly.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when cleaning your plastic furniture with vinegar:

• Test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discolouration.
• If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn stains, you can apply the vinegar solution directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
• For extra shine, you can polish your clean furniture with a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil.

Conclusion

Vinegar is a versatile and affordable cleaning solution that can work wonders on your plastic furniture. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to remove stains and dirt, leaving your furniture looking fresh and inviting. So, the next time your plastic furniture needs a little TLC, reach for the vinegar and watch the magic happen!