Care for Resin Chairs
If you're thinking about throwing out your old, stained resin chairs because they didn't cost that much and you want to buy some new ones, think again. You can probably make your chairs shiny and looking like new again with a few simple techniques.
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Orange Oil and Auto Detailer
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You can use orange oil and auto detailer to restore your resin patio chairs to their former glory. Start with the orange oil, using a soft cloth or paper towels to rub it on the surface of the chairs. Don't use abrasive substances like steel wool, because doing so can dull the high-gloss finish of many resin chairs.
If your resin chair happens to have a matte finish with severe stains, test the steel wool on the bottom where it won't show to see if it damages the appearance of the chair before using it on the top of the chair.
After using the orange oil, mist the chairs with some car quick detailer (Meguiars is one such brand found to work) and then wipe it off with a soft cloth.
Bleach Solution
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Sometimes orange oil isn't as effective on white resin chairs, so you can try using a mixture of one part bleach mixed with nine parts water instead. Another formula combines three-fourths of a cup of bleach with a tablespoon of laundry detergent and one gallon of water. Again, you might want to test this solution on the bottom of the chair to be sure it doesn't negatively change the appearance of the furniture.
If it seems to be okay, put on your rubber gloves and grab either a sponge or a soft-bristled brush and start rubbing the solution into the discolored areas of the chair. Do one small area at a time, letting it sit for five minutes before scrubbing it and rinsing well. Continue this procedure until the whole chair is done.
Proper Care and Cleaning
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During the winter and other times when you are not going to using your resin patio chairs, cover them with tarp or move them into a garage or shed to protect them from harsh elements. The longer the chairs go unused, the more likely you are to need to clean them, especially if they have been exposed to moisture or mold.
Before attempting to clean the chairs, move them to an outside location. Begin by dusting them. Then apply a cleaning solution. Besides the ones mentioned earlier, you can mix a gallon of warm water with three teaspoons of liquid dishwashing detergent. Apply this mixture to the chair with a rag or sponge, thoroughly rubbing it down. After that, let the chair sit for 15 minutes before rinsing it off with a garden hose. Continue this process until all the stains are removed and then let the chair air-dry.
Other Suggestions
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Using car wax can also clean resin chairs, but be careful not to overdo it, applying just enough wax so you can buff it out without any remaining residue.
You can also try a mixture of vinegar and water to get grime and dust off the chairs. After you have scrubbed the chairs down, rinse them thoroughly and leave them in the sun to dry.
You might also have some success taking your resin chairs to the carwash and using the high-pressure soap and water to clean them.
If all else fails, you can spray-paint the chair with a color you like that's specifically designed for resin surfaces. Then your chair is bound to have a whole new look.
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