How to Clean Polywood Furniture and Keep It Looking New?

Polywood furniture is designed to last, but dust, grease, mildew, and stains can make it look worn over time.

If left uncleaned, these buildups don’t just affect the appearance—they can lead to fading, surface wear, and long-term damage.

This guide will show you how to clean Polywood furniture like a pro, so you can keep it vibrant and functional without scratching or dulling its finish.

Before You Clean: Assess the Situation and Gather the Required Tools

Different messes need different solutions. Here’s how to diagnose your Polywood problem:

• Light Dust & Pollen → A quick rinse will do.

• Food Stains (BBQ, wine, grease) → Needs a mild soap mix. 

• Mildew & Mold (humid climates, shady areas) → Vinegar or bleach (but only on white Polywood!).

• Salt Buildup (coastal areas) → Regular rinsing prevents corrosion.

• Tree Sap, Bird Droppings, or Stubborn Stains → Requires scrubbing and patience.

  
  

Now that you know what you’re dealing with, let’s go step by step.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Keep it simple and safe for HDPE:

• Soft-bristle brush: Nylon or polyester, 1-2” wide, for slats and crevices.

• Microfiber cloths: Traps dirt, won’t smear.

• Bucket: For soap mixes.

• Hose: Low-pressure rinse (or a pressure washer under 1,500 PSI).

• Mild dish soap: Dawn or similar—1-2 tsp per gallon of water.

• White vinegar: Diluted 1:1 with water for grease or mildew.

• Bleach: Household (6%), 1:2 with water, for mold on white pieces only.

• Plastic polish: Like 303 Aerospace Protectant, for shine (optional).

Avoid: Steel wool (gouges), Magic Erasers (dulls texture), ammonia (degrades plastic), or acetone (melts it). Bleach on colored Polywood fades it fast—stick to white.

Step-by-Step Guides to Clean Polywood Furniture

Step 1: The Quick & Easy Clean (For Regular Maintenance)

If your Polywood furniture just needs a refresh:

• Hose it down. A light spray removes loose dirt, dust, or pollen.

• Wipe with a microfiber cloth. This prevents streaks as it dries.

• Air dry. Done in 10 minutes.

  
  

Why This Works: Polywood is non-porous, so most dirt doesn’t stick. A simple rinse is all you need for upkeep.

Step 2: The Soapy Scrub (For Food, Grease & Everyday Stains)

Spilled ketchup, sunscreen, or coffee? Here’s how to clean it without damaging the surface:

• Mix a gentle soap solution. (1 tsp dish soap per 1 gallon of warm water).

• Dip a soft brush or microfiber cloth and gently scrub the stain.

• Rinse thoroughly with a hose. Leftover soap can attract dust.

• Air dry. Check for any missed spots.

Pro Tip: A soft toothbrush helps get into grooves or textured surfaces.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning (For Mildew, Mold, or Heavy Grime)

If your Polywood furniture has been neglected for months (or looks like it’s growing its own ecosystem), try these methods:

Option 1: Soap & Brush (Most Safe & Effective)

• Follow the Soapy Scrub method above but scrub with a bit more pressure.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry.

  
  

Option 2: Vinegar Mix (For Grease & Mold Prevention)

• Mix 1:1 white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

• Spray, let sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe clean.

  
  

Option 3: Bleach (For White Polywood ONLY – Use with Caution!)

• Mix 1 part bleach with 2 parts water.

• Apply for 5-10 minutes max. (Too long = discoloration).

• Rinse completely and dry.

  
  

Warning: NEVER use bleach on colored Polywood—it will fade fast!

Step 4: Spot Treatments (For Tough Stains & Sticky Messes)

• Grease (BBQ, sunscreen, oil stains): Dab with 1:1 vinegar-water mix, wipe after 5 minutes.

• Tree Sap: Scrub with dish soap & warm water, or gently scrape with plastic (never metal).

• Bird Droppings: Let dish soap sit for a few minutes before scrubbing to avoid smearing.

Pro Tip: Always test a small hidden spot first before using any cleaner.

Step 5: Avoid These Common Mistakes!

• Power Washing Too Hard – Over 1,500 PSI can damage the surface. Keep it under 1,200 PSI and hold it at least 10 inches away.

• Using Steel Wool or Magic Erasers – These scratch the finish, making it rough and dull.

• Leaving Bleach on Too Long – More than 10 minutes = permanent discoloration.

• Forgetting to Rinse After Cleaning – Soap residue attracts more dirt over time.

Bonus: How to Keep Your Polywood Looking New for Years

• Cover It When Not in Use. Breathable covers prevent dust & UV damage.

• Hose It Off Monthly (Especially Near the Coast). Salt buildup can corrode hardware.

• Polish Every 3-4 Months. A plastic protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant adds shine and UV resistance.

• Store It in the Garage Over Winter (If Possible). Less exposure = less cleaning.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Polywood furniture is built to last—but only if you take care of it. With the right cleaning routine, you won’t just remove stains—you’ll prevent them from sticking in the first place.

Tried these steps? Let me know what worked—or what stubborn stains are still giving you trouble! I’ll help you troubleshoot.

For more tips on maintaining your outdoor space, check out our guide on How to Clean Outdoor Furniture.