If you live in the Phoenix or Scottsdale area, you already know how hot the summers can be and how the harsh rays of the sun can beat down on your patio. If you want to enjoy your patio furniture for many years to come, you need to take special precautions to keep it looking like new.

The good news is most quality patio furniture, including the patio cushions you sit on, have already been chemically treated to resist fading and keep stains from setting in. Even so, the harsh Arizona sun can sometimes overcome that protection. That is why it is important to take proactive steps to protect the furniture frames, the cushions and everything else that makes your patio such a special place to be.

Here are some tips to keep your patio furniture looking like new for many years to come.

• Refinish your wooden patio furniture with a stain designed to resist the harsh rays of the sun. Choosing a UV-resistant stain can keep the vibrant colors on your patio furniture from fading and keep the wood in top shape as well.
• Use covers to protect your patio furniture when not in use. Cushion covers can keep your upholstery from fading, while chair and lounge covers can protect the wood from sudden summer thunderstorms.
• Consider storing your patio furniture indoors if you do not plan on using it for a while. While many residents of Phoenix and Scottsdale use their patios year round, others find the hottest months of winter too much to take. If you plan to give your patio a break this summer, storing it in a garden shed is a great way to protect it from the harsh rays of the sun.
• Clean your furniture regularly. Allowing dirt to set in can make sun damage worse. Clean the upholstery on your patio furniture regularly using a stiff bristle brush to keep dust and dirt away. Clean up stains promptly using a combination of cold water and a mild cleaning solution.
• Do not power wash your patio furniture or use harsh cleansers. Harsh cleansers can scratch the surface of the wood and leave tiny cracks in the upholstery. Power washers can damage the surface of both the frame and the upholstery.
• Watch for mold and treat it promptly. Mold is a more serious problem in more humid parts of the country, but that does not mean your Phoenix or Scottsdale patio furniture is immune. Watch out for signs of mold – and treat it immediately.

For residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale and other warm climates, the patio is often the most active part of the home. If you love your patio, you will want to take steps to keep your furniture looking like new. The tips listed above can help you do just that and keep your outdoor furniture looking its best for many years to come.

Our outdoor patio furnishings are built to withstand the harshest elements the weather can bring and are made to last without compromising style and luxury. Shop at All American Fine Outdoor Furnishings for the highest quality in patio sets and accessories and lounge luxuriously in your back patio for any occasion without worry on wear or long-term damage. Call us at (877) 930-7070 or visit a store near you today!