How to Clean a Plastic Chair

Clean plastic chairs with bleach and laundry detergent.

Plastic chairs are durable and reasonably priced, which makes them a common choice for patios, decks and outdoor gatherings. Deep clean them before spring and summer every year, and maintain them by wiping them down with a damp cloth. Bleach works best on all-plastic chairs, but test an inconspicuous area first to prevent discoloration on colored chairs. If discoloration occurs, use laundry detergent without the bleach.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Bleach
• Laundry detergent
• Rubber gloves
• Scrub brush
• Garden hose (optional)
• Cloths

Instructions

1. Test a colored chair for discoloration by dipping a cloth into the bleach and applying it onto a small hidden area. Allow the bleach to sit for 20 minutes and check the area for any color change. If discoloration occurs, do not use bleach and increase the amount of laundry detergent to 2 tbsp.

2. Fill a bucket with 3/4 cup bleach, 1 tbsp. laundry detergent and one gallon of warm water. Put on the rubber gloves. Move the chair to an outside area with access to a garden hose. If you don't have a hose for rinsing, a clean bucket of water will work too.

3. Dip the scrub brush into the bucket, and wash the chair from top to bottom. Concentrate scrubbing on stains and extremely dirty areas. Allow the cleaning solution to sit on the chair for 15 minutes.

4. Rinse the chair with a garden hose or empty the bucket and refill it with clean water. Pour the water over the chair or dip a cloth in it and wipe over the entire surface. Dry the chair with a new cloth or allow it to air dry.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Pristine Plastic Chairs
• Creative Homemaking: How to Clean a Plastic Lawn Chair
• Patio Furniture USA: Plastic Patio Furniture Care Tips