Cleaning Outdoor Wood Furniture. Commercial wood cleaners are also effective for cleaning patio furniture, but be sure to read directions carefully. Protect wood furniture at the start of each season with a sealant that's appropriate to its composition […] Light cleaning of wood outdoor furniture is best done with a cloth moistened with water or a mild soapy solution.
Use a clean cloth as the old one becomes visibly dirty.
Wipe down the entire piece of furniture, making sure you get into the nooks and crannies.
If furniture is really grubby, use a scrub brush or scrub pad during the basic cleaning. Using a scrub brush as opposed to a rag will get into any grooves in the wood to remove buildup. Although sealants help preserve color and protect against wear and tear, they aren't necessary.