Salt, sand, and sunscreen don’t belong on your patio seats
Florida summers are made for long, sunny days by the ocean — and it’s no surprise that the mess from the beach often follows you home. Whether it’s salt spray in the air, fine sand stuck to towels, or sunscreen-streaked arms on chairs, your outdoor furniture takes a hit after every visit to the coast.
If your patio set includes rattan or synthetic wood (which is common in coastal homes for its weather resistance), giving it the right post-beach cleanup makes a huge difference. Not only will it last longer — it’ll stay looking fresh and guest-ready all season.
Why Beach Residue is Tough on Outdoor Furniture
You might think these materials are “made for the outdoors” — and they are. But exposure to salt, sand, and oils can still cause trouble:
- Salt crystals can dull finishes or leave behind a powdery film.
- Sand works its way into weave patterns and joints, grinding down surfaces over time.
- Sunscreen and body oils leave greasy smears and discoloration, especially on lighter faux wood.
That’s why a quick rinse with the hose isn’t always enough.
What You’ll Need (and What You Should Skip)
You don’t need expensive products — just the right ones.
Use:
- A soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth
- Mild dish soap
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- A spray bottle or bucket
- Optional: a soft toothbrush for tight spaces
Avoid:
- Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners
- High-pressure washers (unless used carefully from a distance)
- Abrasive scrubbers that can scratch plastic or resin
Step-by-Step: How to Clean After a Beach Day
1. Dry brush first
Before anything else, use a dry brush to remove loose sand and debris. Pay attention to corners, crevices, and joints. This prevents grit from scratching the surface during cleaning.
2. Mix your cleaning solution
Combine warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap and, if you like, a splash of white vinegar. This breaks down sunscreen oils and salt residue effectively.
3. Scrub gently but thoroughly
Dip your cloth or brush into the solution and wipe down all surfaces, including under the arms and along the legs of chairs or tables. Don’t forget undersides where salt-laden moisture can collect.
4. Rinse and dry
Use a garden hose or a bucket of clean water to rinse off all soap. Then dry with a soft towel — or let it air-dry fully in the shade. Don’t leave it dripping in full sun: water droplets can cause spotting on synthetic wood.
What to Do Weekly During Beach Season
If you live near the ocean or visit often, your furniture deserves more than occasional care.
- Rinse it lightly every few days during humid weeks
- Wipe down any sunscreen-smudged areas after use
- Keep furniture under shade or covers when not in use
- Elevate feet off salty concrete or sand whenever possible
A five-minute wipe-down after beach days saves hours of deep cleaning later — and keeps your space looking sharp for guests or renters.
