Plastic chairs can become discolored and grimy over time, making them look less than appealing. Whether it’s due to exposure to the elements, food spills, or just regular use, cleaning plastic chairs can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can restore your plastic chairs to their original brightness. Here are some tried and true tips for whitening your plastic chairs perfectly.
Why Plastic Chairs Get Dirty
Before we dive into the cleaning tips, it’s helpful to understand why plastic chairs get dirty in the first place. Common reasons include:
Sun Exposure:
UV rays can cause plastic to discolor and become brittle.
Dirt and Grime:
Outdoor use exposes chairs to dirt, mud, and pollen.
Food and Drink Spills:
Stains from food and beverages can leave unsightly marks.
Effective Cleaning Methods
1. Baking Soda and Water Paste:
INGREDIENTS:
Baking soda
Water
A sponge or brush
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make a Paste:
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a thick paste.
Apply to Chairs:
Spread the paste over the dirty areas of the chairs.
Scrub:
Use a sponge or brush to scrub the paste into the stains.
Rinse:
Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
2. Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution:
INGREDIENTS:
White vinegar
Baking soda
Warm water
A spray bottle
A sponge or brush
INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix the Solution:
Combine equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
Sprinkle Baking Soda:
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the chairs.
Spray the Solution:
Spray the vinegar solution over the baking soda. The mixture will fizz and help lift dirt and stains.
Scrub:
Scrub the chairs with a sponge or brush.
Rinse:
Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth.
3. Bleach and Water Mixture:
INGREDIENTS:
Bleach
Water
A bucket
Gloves
A sponge or brush
INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare the Mixture:
Mix 1/4 cup of bleach with a gallon of water in a bucket. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
Apply to Chairs:
Dip a sponge or brush into the bleach mixture and scrub the chairs.
Rinse:
Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any bleach residue.
Dry:
Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
4. Magic Eraser:
INGREDIENTS:
A magic eraser
Water
INSTRUCTIONS:
Wet the Eraser:
Dampen the magic eraser with water.
Scrub:
Gently scrub the stained areas of the chairs.
Rinse:
Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
Maintenance Tips
Regular Cleaning:
Clean your plastic chairs regularly to prevent dirt and stains from building up.
Cover When Not in Use:
If possible, cover your chairs when they’re not in use to protect them from the elements.
Store Indoors:
Store your plastic chairs indoors during the off-season to prevent discoloration from prolonged sun exposure.
Conclusion
With these expert tips, cleaning and whitening your plastic chairs can be an easy and satisfying task. Whether you use natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar or opt for a magic eraser, your plastic chairs will look as good as new in no time. Incorporate these cleaning methods into your routine to keep your outdoor furniture looking bright and inviting all year round.
