Ah Spring! That time of year when all of the amateur gardeners, weekend warriors and otherwise outdoorsy fix it types venture outside to conquer the great outdoors.
"Roll out the lawn furniture Ethel; we're going to have a barbecue!" Except...
Where, exactly did we put the lawn furniture, gloves, tools, charcoal starter, barbecue, lawn mower... ?
That's the trouble with all this outdoor activity stuff - unless you want to buy everything all over again, you need to have stored it properly and actually remember where you put it!
Whether you were organizational royalty last fall White glove storage and delivery, or you just stashed and dashed, there are still some things you need to do to maintain those items you only use when the weather is nice.
Here are some helpful tips for your outdoor "stuff."
Patio Furniture
Sun, rain, outdoor pools, and lotions can all cause havoc on your outdoor furnishings. The good news is that you have options. Finding replacement parts (glides, springs, etc) is usually an easy task at the local hardware store. Even the slings can be replaced with kits you can find online.
If properly stored, furniture pads can be dusted off (or if it's made of the right material. rinsed off) and look as good as new. If your cushions are in good shape consider using a spray on protector made for outdoor furniture. Sometimes it's just time for something new. Furniture pads, covers and pillows made for the outdoors are an affordable way to update your outdoor "look."
The actual frames can be updated too. Tired looking frames can be sanded and painted. Use a coat of anti rust paint on wrought iron. Is the aluminum looking dull? Wash it and coat it with car wax.
Simple fixes can make such a difference!
Barbecue Maintenance
Your barbecue should be cleaned thoroughly twice a year. Start by combining part distilled white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle, and then coat the interior of the grill. Close the grill lid and allow it to stand for one hour. This solution will break up that burned on "gunk," so that it is easier to remove with a grill brush. You can wipe it clean with a wet cloth.
Use a sponge and dish soap to clean the grate, or you can use a commercial spray on grate cleaner or oven cleaner. Just be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Do not use oven cleaner on any surface other than the grate, because it can damage painted surfaces.If your barbecue has rust on the outside, use a fine steel wool pad to gently rub the rust spots away. After you've removed the rust, spray with paint made specifically for grills.
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