• Getting our gardens summer-ready is on top of people’s lists with Google searches for ‘garden furniture sets’ +50% and ‘garden sofa set’ +40% in the last month alone
• Expert advice on preparing your garden for the summer season 
• Retailer Wilko, experts in garden furniture and design, have revealed the best month to buy garden furniture, before it ‘sells out’

As we prepare for the warmer weather how best can you get your garden summer-ready? 

Whether you’re thinking of upgrading your garden design or are preparing last year’s outdoor furniture for the warmer weather, the experts at Wilko share their advice for getting your garden summer-ready: 

1. Shop early

Retailer Wilko, have analysed last year’s sales data to reveal the best month to start thinking about buying garden and outdoor furniture. 

Based on the data, sales for garden furniture and accessories peak in May so the retailer advises people should place their orders by March to get in early*. 

This way, you have time to find the right style for your space before popular items sell out. 

2. Choose the right furniture for your space

Before deciding on new furniture for your outdoor space make sure to measure your garden and map out where new furniture will sit first to avoid it becoming too crowded. 

If you have a small outdoor space opt for foldable furniture that can be stored against a wall or inside when not in use to help maximise your space. Multi-functional pieces such as ottomans or benches with storage inside are also a great way to make the most out of your small garden too. 

No matter what size your garden is, make sure you zone your garden to allow space for sociable areas, walkways and seating areas, especially if you’re looking to host in your garden.

Bring in wall-mounted planters and hanging mirrors to add decorative touches without using up more floor space. 

3. Bring old garden furniture sets back to life

To bring last year’s garden furniture back to life, give them a thorough deep clean. 

For wooden garden furniture, use mild soap and water to remove any stains from last summer before applying a sealant or protective oil to help your wood retain its colour and keep it in great condition, whatever the weather. 

Just remember, if your wooden furniture set is brand new make sure to leave it outside for around two weeks first to ensure all of its natural oils have been removed before applying protective products. 

You might find metal garden furniture sets have become rusty, especially if they were left out in the rain or not stored properly over the winter months. Wipe these down with soapy water before using a wire brush and rust remover to lift this off. Make sure to use a weatherproof spray to help keep it protected against the rain. 

4. Take a thorough approach for rattan

Removing debris from rattan furniture can be a little trickier as there are so many grooves in the material. 

We recommend using a toothbrush to loosen the dirt before cleaning the furniture with a solution of warm soapy water. Finish with a damp cloth to wipe away any lasting stains. Just make sure to avoid getting the furniture too wet as it can be susceptible to water damage. 

Spray a UV protectant spray over them once you’ve finished cleaning to help prevent fading throughout the summer season. 

5. Take care of fabrics 

If you’ve stored your furniture sets in a damp place over the winter months you might find cushion pads and covers have started to develop mould or mildew on them. 

Make sure to strip cushion covers and clean them on a cold wash and a cup of chlorine bleach. Give the load an extra spin in the washing machine before allowing the covers to completely dry before popping them back onto your cushions. 

Add a stain remover into the wash for that extra sparkle. 

6. Deep clean your patio or decking 

Before unpacking your garden furniture from storage or setting up new furniture, make sure to deep clean your patio and decking first. 

Start by sweeping the area to remove any debris. Once the debris is cleared, use a solution of warm soapy water and white vinegar and gently scrub onto patio slabs to lift any stains. For any stubborn stains let the solution sit for half an hour before using a brittle brush to scrub it away.

7. Remove weeds 

For a beautiful summer garden, spend some time removing weeds before setting up your summer garden layout to get the space looking its best. 

Pull weeds out after it rains as the moist soil makes this an easier job. Pull the weed from the base to help firmly pull it out from the root. 

If you’ve got particularly stubborn weeds, mix vinegar with soapy water and salt and spray the solution onto the weed to help dehydrate them, making them easier to remove. 

To keep your patio and decking weed-free over the summer, stay on top of regular sweeping to help prevent seeds from settling in the cracks of your patio. Making sure to seal any cracks in your patio can help to prevent them from growing here too. 

8. Store furniture throughout the summer months 

While garden furniture can withstand light rain during the summer months, it is advisable to move garden sets inside during heavy downpours or stormy and windy weather. Either cover with a waterproof sheet or move inside to a sheltered spot if you can to help keep your outdoor furniture looking new for longer.  Ready to refresh your garden? Shop Garden & Outdoor from Wilko: https://www.wilko.com/en-uk/garden-outdoor/c/1