The most effective way to remove stubborn stains from plastic patio furniture

Photo: Warmer (Shutterstock)

When it comes to outdoor furniture, plastic may not be the most glamorous option, but in most cases it's one of the easiest materials to maintain. Wood can rot, splinter and become weathered; cast iron can rust and upholstery, even that designed for outdoor living, needs extra care.

For the most part, plastic patio furniture simply needs to be washed, and most of the time rinsing it off with a garden hose will suffice. But sometimes light-colored plastic furniture ends up with a stain that won't budge. Here's how to get rid of stubborn stains on plastic garden furniture.

How to remove stains from plastic patio furniture

Although plastic outdoor furniture is easier to clean than other materials, stains can still develop, especially from grass, grease and dirt. Here are some ways to get rid of them:

Dish soap: Add a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of warm water, then wash the furniture with the solution, using a cloth or sponge. If scrubbing the stained area with a sponge doesn't work, try a soft-bristled brush. Vinegar: Add about 1/4 cup of white vinegar to a bucket of warm water and use a soft-bristled brush to work on stains. Baking soda: Rinse the furniture with water, then sprinkle baking soda on the stains and let sit for a few minutes. Use a sponge to scrub the stains. Only use baking soda on white plastic furniture, as it may lighten the color. Laundry detergent: Add 1 tablespoon to a bucket of warm water, then use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub the stains with the solution. Bleach or oxygenated/non-chlorine bleach: Add 1/4 cup to a bucket of hot water; wear rubber gloves to scrub the stain with a sponge or brush. Use only on white furniture.

Once you have removed the stains using one of the above methods, rinse the chair with a hose, then let the piece of furniture air dry.