Caring for Victorian Cast Iron Outdoor Furniture

Cast Iron

• Because producing cast iron requires the pouring of molten metal rather than forge-heating and hammering like wrought iron, the Victorians quickly began using this material to create sharply detailed designs and shapes in various architectural endeavors. After initially using cast iron for fences, columns and the like, Victorian industry began turning out elaborately decorated cast iron furniture.

Outdoor Cast Iron Furniture

• The metal was expensive, but an ordinary person in the Victorian era still might have encountered cast iron furniture because its first use was in public spaces such as parks. Introduced into the United States in the mid-19th century, cast iron seating was also found in cemeteries. Because the casting process made intricate detailing relatively easy, cast iron furniture suited the ornate designs popular during the period. Well-to-do Victorians soon placed outdoor cast iron furniture in private gardens, where tables, chairs and settees featured designs based on nature. This furniture often boasts vines, flowers and ferns in its details, perhaps with feet resembling roots.

Care

• While Victorian outdoor cast iron furniture requires little cleaning, it does need preventative maintenance to keep it in good condition. Cover the furniture in late fall before wintry weather sets in. Use a waterproof material to protect it from the elements. If the furniture is not too heavy, consider putting it indoors, such as in a shed or garage, until spring.

Rust

• Cast iron is subject to rust, the reason for protecting it from winter's ice and snow. Rust results from oxidation of the iron when exposed to water and air. Catch rust early and you can save your furniture, but untreated rust causes serious damage. Remove rust using natural products, such as white vinegar. Let the vinegar stay on the rusty area for several minutes as it helps eat it away. Then use a wire scrub brush to remove the rust patches. You may also try baking soda, making a paste with water and applying it to the furniture. Leave the paste on until the rust begins to loosen, then use the scrub brush on it. Always use gloves when cleaning rusty items.