Seeing mildew on your vinyl garden bench can be disappointing, but don't worry—it's a common and fixable problem. Mildew thrives in damp, shaded areas, and vinyl, while durable, is not immune. Here’s a safe and effective way to restore your bench to its former glory.
First, gather your supplies. You'll need white vinegar or a mild detergent, a bucket of warm water, a soft-bristled brush or sponge, a garden hose, and optionally, a pressure washer on a low setting. For stubborn mildew, a commercial cleaner designed for vinyl or outdoor plastics is a good option.
Start by rinsing the bench thoroughly with your garden hose to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents scratching during scrubbing. Next, create your cleaning solution. A simple and effective mixture is one part white vinegar to one part warm water. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that kills mildew spores. Alternatively, use a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water.
Apply the solution generously to the mildewed areas. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate and loosen the mildew. Then, using your soft brush or sponge, gently scrub the surface. Always scrub in a circular motion to avoid leaving streaks. For textured vinyl, pay extra attention to the grooves where mildew loves to hide.
After scrubbing, rinse the bench completely with clean water. If you have access to a pressure washer, use it on the lowest setting from a reasonable distance to avoid damaging the vinyl. Ensure all cleaning residue is washed away.
If mildew stains persist, you may need to repeat the process or use a commercial vinyl cleaner according to its label instructions. Always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Finally, the best defense is prevention. After cleaning, allow the bench to dry completely in the sun. To inhibit future mildew growth, consider applying a protectant spray designed for vinyl outdoor furniture. Regularly wiping down the bench and storing it in a dry place during prolonged wet seasons can also make a big difference.
With these simple steps, your vinyl garden bench will be clean, fresh, and ready for you to enjoy once again.