Plastic garden furniture is light, affordable and handy for guests, but after a few seasons in the sun it fades. The colour turns pale and patchy, the surface feels rough and dark specks of mould appear in the corners. This happens especially quickly on south-facing terraces and balconies.
You do not have to buy a new set. Thorough washing, removing mould and a refreshing treatment bring back the colour and shine in about an hour.
What you will need
Important: Do not use this method on polycarbonate or clear polystyrene: petroleum-based products can mark them. Work outdoors away from naked flames and test the product on a hidden area.
Step 1
Wash the furniture
Rinse off dust, cobwebs and dirt with warm water and detergent. Sponge the seats and backs and use a brush on textured areas, holes and leg joints. Treating dirty plastic will not give an even colour.
Step 2
Remove the mould
Mix vinegar and water half and half and spray it over every surface. Leave it for 15-20 minutes: vinegar tackles the mould that works its way into micro-cracks after years in a damp shed. Then wipe the furniture with a cloth.
Step 3
Clean with a baking soda paste
Mix baking soda with a little water into a thick paste and work it over the furniture with a soft brush. The paste gently removes the faded top layer without scratching the plastic. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry. The furniture must be completely dry before the next step.
Step 4
Bring back the colour with WD-40
Spray WD-40 Multi-Use onto a clean dry rag or straight onto a section of the furniture, wait a minute and work it in with circular movements. It refreshes faded plastic, evens out patchy colour and restores the shine.
Work section by section so the product does not dry before you spread it.
Step 5
Remove the excess and protect the plastic
Buff every surface thoroughly with a clean dry rag, especially seats and armrests, so nothing transfers to clothing.
For extra protection against rain and moisture, apply a thin layer of WD-40 Specialist Silicone with a cloth, leave it for 5-10 minutes and buff.
Tip: Fading is caused by UV light. Move the furniture into the shade when not in use or cover it with a light-coloured cover, and the refreshed colour will last longer.
What next
Repeat the treatment at the start of the season and in midsummer if needed. In autumn, wash the furniture and store it under cover so frost does not make the plastic brittle, and treat any metal parts with WD-40 Multi-Use.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».