Care Guide: Rope Garden FurnitureUpdated 8 hours ago

Caring for your rope garden furniture

Rope furniture — typically featuring a woven synthetic cord over a powder-coated aluminium frame — offers a beautiful textural alternative to traditional rattan or solid-material furniture. The rope weave is durable and weather-resistant by design, but it does benefit from regular care to keep it looking its best and to maximise its lifespan.

Routine cleaning

Brush down rope furniture regularly with a soft-bristled brush to remove dust, pollen, and loose debris from the weave. For a deeper clean, use warm soapy water and a soft brush, working the solution gently into the weave and across all surfaces. Rinse thoroughly with a gentle garden hose to remove all soap residue. Allow to dry fully in open air before use or covering.

Important: Do not use a pressure washer on rope furniture. A pressure washer at close range can force moisture deep into the rope core and may damage the weave or the underlying frame fixings over time. Use a garden hose only.

Dealing with stains

For food or drink spills, blot immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth to remove as much of the liquid as possible before it sets. Once blotted, clean the area with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry in the open air. For more stubborn staining, a mild upholstery cleaner suitable for synthetic fibres can be used — always test on a small, inconspicuous area of the weave first before applying to the affected area.

The aluminium frame

The powder-coated aluminium frame beneath the rope weave is exceptionally durable and rust-resistant. Wipe down any exposed frame sections with a damp cloth and mild soap as part of your regular cleaning routine. Rinse and dry after cleaning. Inspect all joints and fixings at the start of each season and tighten any that have worked loose.

Please note: Although the aluminium frame will not rust, the screws and fixings used in construction may occasionally be made from other metals. Check these at the start of each season and treat any surface rust with a rust remover before it has a chance to spread.

UV exposure and fading

Rope furniture can be susceptible to UV fading over extended periods of direct sun exposure. The colour and vibrancy of the rope weave will gradually diminish if left in direct sunlight for long periods without protection. Positioning furniture in partial shade during the hottest months, or using a parasol, will significantly slow this process. Using furniture covers when the furniture is not in use will also help.

Please note: UV fading and weave brittleness caused by prolonged weather exposure are considered normal wear and tear and are not covered under guarantee. Consistent use of furniture covers is the most effective way to extend the life and colour of the weave.

Furniture covers

Cover rope furniture with quality, breathable furniture covers whenever it is not in regular use — including overnight during summer. Breathable covers allow air circulation while protecting against rain, dew, pollen, and UV. Avoid non-breathable or PVC-backed covers, as these trap moisture against the rope and frame and can cause mould and accelerate deterioration.

Winter storage

At the end of the season, clean the furniture thoroughly, allow it to dry completely, and store in a covered, dry and sheltered environment if possible — a garage or shed is ideal. If storing outdoors, ensure good quality breathable furniture covers are properly secured. Never put rope furniture away dirty or damp.

Important: Always ensure rope furniture is completely dry before covering or storing. Mould can develop within the rope weave if moisture is trapped, and once established it is difficult to remove fully.

What to avoid

✕Don't pressure wash — use a garden hose only

✕Don't use bleach or harsh chemical cleaners on the weave

✕Don't cover or store while damp — allow to dry fully first

✕Don't use PVC-backed or non-breathable covers

✕Don't leave in direct sunlight for prolonged periods without protection

✕Don't drag across paving or decking — always lift to reposition

Seasonal maintenance checklist

Work through this at the start of each season to keep your rope furniture in top condition.

Brush down the full weave to remove any dust, debris, or pollen that has accumulated
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry fully
Inspect the weave for any signs of fraying, brittleness, or UV damage
Wipe down all exposed frame sections with a damp cloth and mild soap
Check and tighten all frame fixings and joints
Inspect fixings for any surface rust and treat promptly if found
Check furniture covers for tears or damage and replace if they no longer offer full protection

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