How to Recondition Dried Wooden Patio Furniture

Rinse the surface of the furniture with water, using a fine jet spray to loosen soil and debris.

Clean the surface with wood oil soap such as Murphy's mixed with water. If you have a specific type of wood such as teak, use a cleanser made for it. Gently scrub the top, sides and corners with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse well and dry thoroughly with a towel, then let the furniture air-dry for 24 hours.

Examine the wood for calcium deposits or other signs of hard water buildup. If they are present, you may need to use a rubbing compound to gently buff them out. Compounds containing pumice or rottenstone should be gentle enough; avoid products with harsh chemicals. Rub the compound into the entire piece of furniture so it gains an even finish. Do not buff so hard that you scratch the finish.

If your furniture is teak, rub in teak oil with a rag. Use car wax on other types of wood; avoid car wax/cleaner combos and opt for the straight wax. Look for a wax with ultraviolet protection.

Follow up this routine by cleaning your wooden patio furniture every two weeks with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. Dry the wood thoroughly after washing or when furniture has had a bout in the rain.