With longer days and (hopefully) more sunshine on the way, now’s the perfect time to start preparing your garden furniture for the warmer months ahead. One of the best ways to enjoy the sunshine at home is by stretching out on a comfy sun lounger—cold drink in hand, book by your side, and nothing much to do.

But before you can start soaking up the sun, it’s a good idea to give your garden sun loungers a proper clean. After months of being exposed to the elements—or stashed away in a damp shed—they’ll likely be in need of a bit of TLC. Whether you’ve got a rattan sun lounger, wooden sun loungers, or a teak sun lounger, each type needs a slightly different approach to cleaning.

Here’s a straightforward guide to get your sun loungers looking fresh, clean, and summer-ready.

Start with a Quick Inspection

Before reaching for the sponge and bucket, take a few minutes to inspect your loungers. Check for any signs of damage—cracked frames, rust spots, mouldy fabric, or loose screws. Sorting out small problems now can save you the hassle of dealing with a broken lounger when the weather’s finally nice enough to use it.

Remove any cushions or covers, and give everything a quick brush or vacuum to clear off loose dirt, dust, leaves, and cobwebs.

Cleaning Rattan Sun Loungers

Rattan sun loungers are a popular choice in UK gardens thanks to their stylish, woven appearance and lightweight frames. While most modern rattan furniture is made from synthetic materials that are weather-resistant, it still needs a gentle clean to keep it looking its best.

Here’s how:

  • Mix warm water with a bit of mild washing-up liquid.

  • Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surfaces. For the woven areas, a soft brush or even an old toothbrush works well to reach into the gaps.

  • For tougher dirt in the weave, use a handheld vacuum or blast it with a low-pressure hose (not a pressure washer—it can damage the weave).

  • Rinse gently with clean water and let it air dry in the sun.

If your rattan has a powder-coated frame, check for any chips or scratches and touch them up with matching paint to prevent rust.

Cleaning Wooden Sun Loungers

There’s something charmingly classic about wooden sun loungers. But wood, being a natural material, is more prone to weathering—especially if left outside through autumn and winter.

To clean them:

  • Brush off loose debris and dirt with a stiff brush.

  • Mix warm water with a bit of vinegar or a mild wood cleaner.

  • Scrub gently along the grain using a soft-bristled brush.

  • For mould or mildew spots, you can use a solution of vinegar and water (1:1) or a specialist outdoor wood cleaner.

  • Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

After cleaning, it’s a good idea to re-oil or seal the wood, particularly if it’s looking a bit dry or faded. This not only enhances the look of the wood but also protects it from sun and rain going forward.

Cleaning Teak Sun Loungers

A teak sun lounger is often considered the crème de la crème of wooden loungers—hardwearing, naturally weather-resistant, and beautifully aged over time. That said, teak still benefits from regular cleaning to remove surface grime and prevent uneven weathering.

  • Start with a dry brush to remove loose dirt and dust.

  • Use warm water mixed with a few drops of gentle soap.

  • Scrub lightly with a soft brush or sponge, following the grain.

  • Rinse with clean water and leave to air dry in a shaded area if possible.

Teak develops a silver-grey patina over time, which many people love. If you prefer to keep the original honey-golden tone, you’ll need to apply a teak oil or protector once the lounger is dry.

Cleaning Cushions and Fabrics

Many garden sun loungers come with padded cushions for extra comfort. These can get just as grimy as the frames, especially if they’ve been left out in the rain or have soaked up some sun lotion spills.

  • Check the label—if the cushion covers are removable, pop them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.

  • If not, mix warm water with a mild detergent and use a sponge to spot-clean any marks or stains.

  • Avoid soaking the cushions completely.

  • Leave them to dry thoroughly in the sun to prevent mildew.

It’s always a good idea to store cushions indoors or in a waterproof box when not in use.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Them Looking Great

Once your sun loungers are clean and dry, a little regular maintenance can go a long way:

  • Wipe them down every couple of weeks to prevent build-up of dirt.

  • Store them in a shed or under a proper garden furniture cover during bad weather.

  • Bring cushions indoors when rain is forecast.

  • Touch up chips or scratches in metal frames to prevent rust.

  • Oil wooden and teak loungers once or twice a season, depending on exposure.

Enjoy the Sunshine in Style

Whether you prefer the laid-back look of a rattan sun lounger, the traditional feel of wooden sun loungers, or the luxury of a teak sun lounger, keeping them clean will ensure your garden looks welcoming all season long.

A bit of cleaning now means you’ll be ready for every warm weekend that comes your way—whether it’s sunbathing with a book, sipping drinks with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment outdoors.

So roll out the towels, grab your sunnies, and let the lounging begin.