How to clean a plastic garden table?

One of the most commonly used materials in garden furniture is plastic, which is very common in chairs, coffee or dining tables or even outdoor side tables. This material is characterised by its resistance, versatility and good value for money, as well as its low maintenance.

However, it is advisable to clean them periodically to avoid the accumulation of dirt, premature deterioration or loss of colour. But do you know how to clean a plastic garden table easily and effectively?

In this post, we will tell you the best tricks to make your plastic table look as good as new, with a special focus on how to clean a white plastic table, as well as how to clean very dirty tables. In addition, we’ll give you some simple tips on how to keep your plastic outdoor tables in good condition for many years to come.

What materials do you need to clean a plastic terrace table?

Before getting down to work, you should make sure you have the necessary materials at hand:

• Warm water, as well as a bucket or other container to prepare the mixture.
• Neutral soap that will not damage the material.
• Soft sponge or microfibre cloth, which allows you to rub without scratching the table.
• Soft bristle brush, very useful for cleaning areas with more encrusted dirt or difficult corners.
• Dry, clean cloth to dry the surface after cleaning.
• Cleaning vinegar, recommended if the table is white and has a yellowish tone.
• Baking soda, effective for stubborn stains that cannot be removed with regular soap.
• Diluted ammonia, in cases of stubborn dirt or accumulated grease.
• Cleaning gloves, especially important if you are going to use abrasive products such as ammonia.

If the list seems long, don’t worry: the last mentioned products are only necessary for deep cleaning. For routine maintenance of your plastic tables, water, soap, a sponge or cloth, a soft-bristled brush and a dry cloth will suffice.

How to clean plastic garden tables step by step?

If you want to know how to clean a plastic terrace table quickly, easily and effectively, just follow these steps to get the best result:

• Remove all objects from the table: before starting, completely clear the surface, removing tablecloths, flower pots, plates or any decorative elements that may get in the way during cleaning. You should also make sure you have enough space to carry out the process comfortably.
• Remove dust and loose debris: Next, you can use a dry cloth or soft bristle brush to remove any dust, dry leaves or dirt on the table. This step is very important to prevent the dirt from mixing with the water when scrubbing.
• Prepare a mixture of warm water and neutral soap: the best option for cleaning your plastic terrace table on a regular basis is still the typical mixture of warm water with a few drops of neutral soap, as it does not damage the material and is sufficient to clean the usual dirt.
• Clean the surface: soak a sponge or cloth in the mixture and rub the entire table, including the edges and legs, repeating the process until the entire surface is clean. For areas where dirt is more encrusted, you can use a soft-bristled brush.
• Rinse with clean water: with the dirt removed, it’s time to rinse the table with plenty of water to remove any remaining soap residue.
• Dry your table: use a dry cloth to remove the moisture. You can also leave it to air dry, although it is advisable to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight while it is still wet, unless it has a specific anti-UV treatment, such as the polypropylene tables we sell at Home Zentrum.

How to clean a white plastic table?

In case you are wondering how to clean white plastic tables, you should know that this colour requires special attention as any dirt, marks or yellowing is much more visible than on furniture of other colours.

In order to maintain its original appearance, you should therefore take these particularities into account:

• Use only mild products, such as neutral soap diluted in water, as aggressive detergents can cause yellowing over time, especially if the table is exposed to the sun.
• Avoid abrasive tools, such as metal scouring pads or hard sponges. Even moderate friction can leave visible marks on a white surface.
• Make sure the surface dries thoroughly after cleaning, as prolonged dampness can cause stains or greyish marks on white plastic.
• Do not expose the table to the sun immediately after cleaning, especially if it is still damp, as the combination of water and UV rays can lead to discolouration if the furniture is not properly treated.
• Check the edges, joints and grooves, where dirt tends to accumulate, which contrasts especially on white furniture.

If you follow these tips, you will know how to clean a white plastic table so that it looks as good as it did on the first day. Keeping your table looking good will make it easier for you to integrate it into any style of garden decoration, small or large, giving your outdoor space a unique and well cared for look.

How to clean a very dirty plastic garden table?

Occasionally, tables may have stains that are difficult to clean or that are particularly stuck to the surface. In this case, you will have to carry out a more thorough cleaning, for which you have different alternatives:

• Ammonia diluted in water: this is a very useful mixture for removing grease, food residue and stubborn dirt. To make it, mix one part ammonia with five parts water, apply it with a soft brush or sponge and then rinse the surface thoroughly. Don’t forget to wear gloves to protect your skin, as ammonia is an abrasive product.
• Cleaning vinegar: ideal for cleaning a yellowed plastic table and restoring it to its original white. The mixture should be equal parts vinegar and warm water and should be applied to the stained surface. For maximum effectiveness, you can leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
• Baking soda: in case the stains do not come out with any of the above methods, one trick is to apply a mixture of baking soda and water to the soiled areas. Wait a few minutes and then gently scrub using a soft bristle brush; finally, rinse with clean water.

Tips for keeping your plastic table in good condition

Now that you know how to clean white plastic tables and even how to remove particularly stubborn stains, let’s finish the article by giving you the keys to keeping your table perfect for as long as possible:

• Clean regularly to avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt that can damage the surface.
• Opt for materials such as polypropylene, which is of higher quality and resistance and has greater durability against sun exposure and daily wear and tear.
• Opt for good quality furniture that has been treated to prevent damage caused by UV rays, such as those we sell at Home Zentrum.
• Do not use abrasive products or hard scouring pads that can scratch or damage the material.
• Avoid leaving very hot objects on the table, as they can damage or deform the plastic.
• If you want to avoid cleaning during the months when you are not using the garden, protect the table during the winter or during periods of inactivity with covers that prevent the accumulation of moisture and dirt.

Are you looking for an outdoor table for your home or business? Whether you are looking for outdoor dining furniture or a coffee table or side table, at Home Zentrum we have a wide catalogue where you can find various alternatives with the best quality-price ratio. Contact us if you have any questions!