How to Care for Outdoor Furniture Through the Seasons

Tommy Bahama Outdoor furniture, carried by Sutter & Vale in its outdoor collection, is built for year-round exposure. Its aluminum frames resist rust, and performance fabrics like Sunbrella shed moisture and UV damage. With a few straightforward habits tied to each season, the furniture stays in excellent condition for years.

What Materials Do I Need to Understand Before I Start?

Knowing your materials shapes every care decision. Tommy Bahama Outdoor pieces use lightly-textured graphite aluminum frames, all-weather wicker, and performance acrylic fabrics including Sunbrella.

• Aluminum frames: Will not rust. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse and dry.
• Sunbrella and performance acrylic fabrics: Resist fading, mildew, and moisture. Clean with mild soap and lukewarm water. Air dry completely before storage or covering.
• Open-cell reticulated foam cushions: Drain and dry quickly after rain, as found in the Sand Dune lounge chair and wicker seating pieces. Stand them on edge to help water escape faster.
• All-weather sling material: Wipe clean. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which can degrade the weave over time.

What Should I Do at the Start of Spring?

Spring is inspection time. Pull furniture out of storage or remove covers and look at every surface in good daylight.

Check frame joints for debris that collected over winter. Wash fabric with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and let it dry before use. Tighten any loose hardware. If you notice scuffs on the aluminum, a small amount of car paste wax will protect the finish through the coming months.

How Do I Maintain the Furniture During Summer?

Regular light cleaning through summer prevents buildup that is harder to remove later.

Hose down frames and fabrics every few weeks. For heavier soil on sling chairs, such as the graphite-frame arm dining chair, a soft brush with soapy water works well. Rinse completely and let pieces dry in open air. Move cushions under cover during extended storms. Apply a fabric protector approved for acrylic textiles once or twice during the season.

What Is the Right Way to Prepare for Fall and Winter?

A thorough clean before storage is the most important step of the year. Dirt and moisture left on surfaces over winter accelerate wear.

1. Wash frames, fabrics, and cushions as you would in spring.
2. Dry everything completely, including foam cores, before covering or storing.
3. Store cushions indoors or in a ventilated outdoor storage box.
4. Cover frames with breathable furniture covers. Waterproof covers trap condensation; breathable ones allow airflow and reduce mildew risk.
5. In climates with hard freezes, store lightweight aluminum pieces upright inside a garage or shed to prevent water from pooling in joints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave Tommy Bahama Outdoor furniture outside all winter?

The aluminum frames and performance fabrics are built to handle exposure, but a dry, covered storage arrangement extends the life of cushions and finish considerably. In mild climates, breathable covers over the frames and indoor cushion storage is a practical middle ground.

How do I remove mildew from Sunbrella fabric?

Mix one cup of bleach and one quarter cup of mild soap per gallon of water. Apply, let it soak for fifteen minutes, scrub lightly with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. Always let the fabric dry completely in open air after treatment.

How often should I clean the aluminum frames?

A full wash two to three times a year, at the start and end of the outdoor season and once mid-summer, keeps frames looking their best. Spot-wipe as needed after dusty or rainy periods.

The Sutter & Vale Team