British homeowners seeking to renew, refresh and rejuvenate their outdoor spaces need not purchase expensive cleaning equipment to achieve this.
According to one garden furniture expert, an unlikely household item - a discarded toothbrush - offers an ingenious solution for restoring weathered garden furniture to its former glory, at no cost at all.
As households increasingly embrace al fresco dining and outdoor entertaining over the warmer months, maintaining pristine patio furniture is essential.
Unfortunately, Britain's damp and rainy climate often leaves wooden chairs and tables bearing unsightly marks and accumulated grime.
Britain's damp climate has disastrous consequences for garden furniture
|GETTY
Garden furniture expert Bradley Spencer stated: "The unpredictable British weather can leave garden furniture looking less than its best at times."
To combat the accumulation of dust, dirt and grime, the specialist suggested using gentle cleaning methods for wooden outdoor furniture, recommending a combination of water and mild soap, administered with a soft cloth or sponge.
For persistent stains, a diluted white vinegar solution "can also be useful for tackling any stubborn dirt", the expert suggested.
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For smaller, harder-to-reach spots, an old soft-bristle toothbrush is useful, as it can "remove dirt and loose debris from crevices" - just make sure you're not damaging the wood by scrubbing too hard.
Following a cleaning treatment, ensure that you give the piece of furniture a thorough rinse with fresh water to eliminate any residual product.
"A regular deep clean can not only protect the longevity and functionality of outdoor items but give them an instant makeover too," he added.
Quality timber pieces can persist through the decades when properly maintained. To keep them looking prim and proper, experts recommend thorough cleaning biannually, followed by an application of fresh sealant or protective oil.
Quality timber pieces can last for decades when properly maintained
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During colder periods, pieces of furniture are likely to benefit from protective covering or storage in sheltered spaces like sheds, which can help to protect furniture from harsh weather conditions over the winter.
"You might be surprised just how much of a difference a deep clean can make to your garden furniture and your entire outdoor space," Bradley added.
Offering another key tip for garden success, he warned against using high-pressure cleaning equipment on timber surfaces, explaining that tools like pressure washers "may cause damage if not done properly".
Clarifying just what happens when using such a potent tool, Bradley said that the blasts can damage the protective coating, causing the wood to chip and, consequently, be "more vulnerable" to sun and water damage.