Removing green algae from your garden furniture

Green deposits on garden furniture and garden furniture covers are caused by moisture, shade, and dirt. Fortunately, they are easy to remove with the right tools and techniques. You can use cleaning vinegar, soda or green soap. In this blog, you will discover how to remove and prevent green deposits in 5 simple steps.

What are green deposits, and how do they form?

Green deposits are layers of algae and moss that grow in damp, shady areas. They are most common in autumn and winter, when rain and a lack of sunlight encourage their growth. Green deposits are actually a collective term: algae and mosses live in symbiosis, with the algae feeding the moss and the moss protecting the algae. It is similar to weeds and tends to return every year.

Want to prevent green deposits? Make sure your garden furniture is placed in a sunny spot. Sunlight is the best natural remedy against algae and moss.

How do you remove green deposits?

Option 1: Use cleaning vinegar or natural vinegar

Cleaning vinegar is a powerful and inexpensive way to remove green deposits. Follow these steps:

1. Use cleaning vinegar for strong materials and natural vinegar for delicate surfaces like natural stone.

2. Apply the vinegar directly to the affected areas.

3. Allow it to soak in for 15 minutes.

4. Scrub with a brush or sponge and rinse with water.
   Vinegar is effective because the acids kill algae and moss.

Option 2: Make a solution with soda and soft soap

A more eco-friendly method involves using soda and soft soap:

1. Mix 2 cups of soda and 2 cups of soft soap in a bucket of warm water.

2. Scrub the surface with a stiff broom, brush, or sponge.

3. Leave to soak for 15 minutes.

4. Rinse off using a garden hose.

Option 3: Use a special green deposit remover

For stubborn green deposits, a ready-to-use green deposit remover is effective:

1. Apply the product to dry surfaces for best results.

2. Use a watering can, broom, spray bottle or pressure sprayer depending on the surface.

3. Let it work for several days in dry weather.
   This method is ideal for patios, decking, and teak garden furniture. It can also be used to clean protective covers that have turned green.

Option 4: Deep-clean lounge cushions

1. For Sunbrella cushions:

   • Make a solution with bleach and mild soap.

   • Let it soak in for 15 minutes.

   • Scrub with a brush or sponge and rinse thoroughly.

2. For standard cushions (Acrylic or Dralon):

   • Use water, mild soap or a general cleaner.

   • Gently scrub with a sponge or brush.

   • Let it soak in for 15 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
     Tip: Prevent green deposits on cushions by storing them in storage boxes or cushion bags.

Important: Avoid using a pressure washer!

Although tempting, a pressure washer can damage garden furniture and protective covers. Instead, opt for gentler methods such as vinegar, soda, or mild cleaners.

Extra Tip: Prevent green deposits by storing garden furniture and cushions in a dry, sunny spot. For optimal protection, consider using furniture covers or storage boxes.

How can you prevent green deposits on garden furniture?

Prevention is often easier than removal. Here are a few effective tips to keep green deposits at bay and your garden furniture and covers in top condition:

1. Protect your garden furniture and cushions

Use protective covers for your garden furniture and cushions. These covers prevent organic dirt from accumulating and shield your furniture from moisture that encourages green deposits. At the Garden Furniture Cover Shop, you will find a wide range of covers, including ones for garden sets and lounge sets that are both waterproof and breathable—ideal for preventing green growth. 

2. Keep your garden clean

Green deposits form due to organic material such as leaves, twigs, dust and insects. These elements serve as nutrients for algae and moss. Regularly sweep your terrace and use joint sand to reduce the chances of green growth. For joints, use boiling water or a hoe to keep them clean.

3. Ensure good drainage

Standing water is a major contributor. Check that your terrace drains properly and that drains are not blocked by leaves or debris. Proper drainage helps prevent green deposits.

4. Let the sunshine in

Prune trees and shrubs that create too much shade to allow more sunlight on your terrace and furniture. Sunlight slows the growth of algae and moss, which do not thrive under UV radiation.

5. Use green deposit removers with preventative effects

Some green deposit removers, such as those by HG, have a preventative effect by soaking into the material. This slows down the growth of new algae and moss on patio tiles, decking and protective covers.

With these simple measures, your garden and furniture will stay clean and free of green deposits for longer. Don’t have a garden set cover or a lounge set cover yet? Browse our collection and keep green deposits at bay!

Also read our tips on cleaning your garden furniture cover and winterising your lounge set.

Frequently asked questions about green deposits on garden furniture

What is the best method to remove green deposits?

Using cleaning vinegar is effective and eco-friendly. For persistent deposits, you can also use a pressure washer.

Can green deposits be prevented?

Yes, store your furniture in a dry place, use furniture covers and regularly treat your furniture with a protective coating.

Can green deposits damage garden furniture?

Yes, prolonged exposure can affect the surface, especially on wood and metal furniture.