Preparing your Garden for Spring: Get your Furniture Ready for the New Season
Are you ready? It's official—it's time for the big clean. That's right: the days finally start to get longer, the temperatures get (slightly) warmer, and the sun begins peeking out from behind the clouds a little more frequently.
One thing is for sure: Spring clean season is officially upon us! And that means it's time to step outside again.
A time of new beginnings and fresh blooms, preparing your UK garden for spring is just as important as the rest of your home. As we tidy away the last remnants of winter, it's time to get the spring garden furniture out of hibernation and give it a new lease of life. By the time summer rolls around, you'll be reaping the rewards.
Read on to discover:
- When it's the best time to prepare your garden for spring in the UK
- How to clean and maintain your spring garden furniture
- How to use garden furniture to enhance your outdoor space with Harbour Lifestyle's range of premium garden furniture and accessories
When to start preparing your garden for spring
In the UK, the last few weeks of winter and the first month of spring are perfect for showing your garden some TLC and starting your spring garden prep. While it may still seem a little early (it’s still pretty chilly in the UK), getting a head start can make all the difference.
When March and April roll around, any trees or shrubs in your outdoor space could do with a good pruning. Now that the frost has finally lifted, you can start prepping the soil and tidy up any flower beds or herbaceous borders in time to plant your first spring bulbs. As one of the most important aspects of your outdoor space, it’s also a good idea to start thinking about getting your garden furniture out of storage and ready for the warmer days ahead.
How to prepare your garden for spring in the UK: cleaning and maintenance
From cleaning your patio to dusting off outdoor furniture, let’s explore exactly what to do to prepare your garden for spring.
Uncover your sets and brush away any dirt, debris, spider webs and leaves
Palma Rope Rectangular Corner Dining Set with Rising Table in Grey (Left Hand) - £3,799
If your garden furniture has been kept safely away in storage, take it out and gently remove the covers. Before you get carried away and give your furniture a deep clean, you’ll need to brush off any loose dirt and debris, such as spider webs, leaves, and dust, from the surfaces. Don’t forget to get into all those nooks and crannies, either! We want the most thorough spring clean possible.
Clean the frames and table tops using warm soapy water
Monterrey 8 Seat Rope Rectangular Ceramic Firepit Dining Set in Grey - £3,799
Using a mild mix of warm water and soap, wash the frames down with a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching or damaging the surface. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft towel to prevent water spots.
Use cleaning kits made specifically for the materials
Do you have sleek aluminium furniture? Or maybe a rustic wicker set? Depending on the material, your spring garden furniture will require specific care if you want to maintain its longevity and keep it looking spick and span.
We recommend investing in a cleaning kit specially designed for the garden furniture you own. Garden furniture usually comes with cleaning products and tools that protect the materials while giving it a thorough clean.
Rattan
Antigua Bistro Set with Ceramic Top in Stone Grey - £799.99
Rattan is best cleaned with mild, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Gently wipe the surface and go over any intricate weaves and crevices.
You don’t want to get the rattan too wet, so avoid using too much water and leave it out to dry naturally in the sun or in a well-ventilated area.
Want to find out more? Check out our guide for a deep dive into rattan garden furniture maintenance.
Rope
Merano 2 Seat Sofa Set and Coffee Tables in Latte - £2,999
Rope furniture may seem delicate, but high-quality options are made to be strong and weather-resistant. Even so, a mild solution of soap and water is the safest bet to avoid damage.
Using a soft cloth and light pressure, wipe down each of the rope sections and rinse gently with water before allowing them to air dry. You can also use a mist spray to spot-clean specific areas. Avoid using abrasive materials, hard brushes or excessive scrubbing, as these can fray the rope fibres.
Aluminium
Panama Luxury Outdoor Large Corner Group Set in Charcoal - £3,799
For aluminium garden furniture, remove any fabric cushions and wipe down the frame using a soft cloth and some warm, soapy water or car shampoo if you have any. You can also use a soft brush and gently wash it with a garden hose before drying.
Don't use a pressure washer under any circumstances and avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the powder coating. Wear and tear can cause the aluminium metal to dull, so you'll also want to think about using a very light coat of car wax to get it looking its best, shiny self.
Wood
Julia 6 Seat Rectangular Dining Set in Volga Grey - £4,499
Once you've removed the dirt and grime that has accumulated over winter, use warm water and soap or a specialised wood cleaner to gently clean wooden frames and remove any scuff marks or stains. Avoid harsh chemicals that will damage the wood, and consider using a protective oil or sealant once dry to protect it from the elements and parasites and enhance its natural colour.
If you've noticed any rough edges or splinters, use sandpaper to smooth it down and treat mildew spots that may have appeared from the winter rain and snow with vinegar and baking soda. For more tips, check out our wooden furniture care guide.
Tidy up any dead leaves, flowers and foliage
Spring cleaning isn’t just for your furniture. Remove any dead leaves, flowers and foliage that have accumulated around your garden over the past weeks and months.
Not only are they messy in appearance, but they can also carry bacteria that can ruin your lawn and plants. It will also prevent rot and mould from growing near your furniture. Use a rake or a leaf blower to make a quick job of it.
Jet wash the patio or decking to spruce it up
Monterrey 8 Seat Rope Extending Dining Set in Grey - £2,999
After the wet and muddy rainy months, your patio or decking probably doesn't look its best. Give it a spruce with a jet wash to instantly remove dirt, grime and moss and leave it looking (almost) as good as new.
Repaint fences, sheds and wooden furniture
Like it or not, this time of year is perfect for getting those boring but essential maintenance jobs out of the way. During the long winter months, paint on fences, sheds, and wooden furniture can chip, stain and fade. Give them a fresh lick of paint to bring them back to life and brighten the entire garden.
Start by smoothing the surface before applying a primer, and finish with two coats of weather-resistant paint or stain in the colour of your choice.
Get your outdoor kitchen clean and ready to use (and stock the fridge, ready for impromptu guests!)
Juno Pro 16" Gas Pizza Oven - £429.00
With the season of outdoor cooking slowly creeping up, you want to be ready for the first BBQ of the year at a moment's notice. So it's time to get your outdoor kitchen sparkling and back in working order again for al fresco spring gatherings.
Give all the surfaces, grills, and appliances a thorough wipe and a good clean, and make sure that everything is in good working order. Now for the fun part— slowly stock up your outdoor fridge with your favourite refreshments and snacks. You never know when a guest could pop over.
Pressure wash durable fabrics
Luna 8 Seat Outdoor Fabric Oval Ceramic Dining Set in Oyster Grey - £2,849.00
Even if you covered them up and put them away in storage, your outdoor cushions or fabrics could probably do with a good refresh.
Pressure wash your durable fabrics to remove dirt and mildew, but use a gentle setting to avoid damaging the material and leave them in a sunny spot to air dry. If your sofa and chair cushion covers are machine washable, throw them in the wash with a good fabric conditioner that smells like spring.
Scrub and wash away stubborn stains
Bay Corner Group Set with 4 Waist Pillows Teak Table in Olive Green - £3,499
Tackle stubborn stains using powerful cleaning agents. Just make sure to read the instructions and check that the cleaning agent is suitable for your specific spring garden furniture.
For lighter stains and a more natural approach, use age-old recommended ingredients from around the house, like white vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar acts as a disinfectant, while the reaction with baking soda lifts stains. Soak your sponge or cloth in the solution, rub it gently into the stains, and watch the magic happen.
Clean wooden table tops
Quay 6 Seat Rectangular Dining Set in Linen - £1,649.00
Easily clean your wooden tabletops with soap and water and a microfibre cloth to pick up dirt particles. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly to prevent water damage. Consider using a wood conditioner or spray polish to give it back its lustre and gloss if the wood looks a bit weathered and dull.
Enhance your outdoor space with spring garden furniture
Add a touch of colour with rugs, throws and scatter cushions, focusing on pastel colours for spring
Hatia Double Sun Lounger with Side Table in Latte - £1,899
Agora Scala Coral Bolster Scatter Cushion - £24.99
Acrisol Bouquet Multi Bolster Scatter Cushion - £24.99
There’s a reason why pastels are associated with spring. Light, soft and calming, colourful rugs, throws and scatter cushions in beautiful pastel colours inject a big fat dose of spring into your garden. Adding texture and interest, they’re easy to change and cost-effective to update.
Bring your lighting out from the shed or garage
Bob Large Table Light in Charcoal - £69.99
Grab your lighting out from storage to up the ambience in your garden and bring the sparkle back to your outdoor evenings. Or better yet, treat yourself to some new eye-catching hanging fire lanterns or solar lanterns for an eco-friendly alternative to create a magical and inviting atmosphere.
Get parasols out for shade as it starts to get sunny
Siesta Premium 3m Cantilever Parasol with Wood Effect in Charcoal - £1,599
Don’t get us wrong, we love the sun. But as it starts to shine brighter and stronger, adding a stylish parasol while you spend more time outdoors just makes good sense. From cantilever parasols for maximum sun coverage to classic wooden styles for an injection of vintage flair, protect your skin from the sun under a stylish parasol that matches your aesthetic.
Buy garden seating to make an inviting outdoor space
Riviera Luxury Large Outdoor Corner Group Set in Latte - £2,799
Comfortable and stylish garden seating is one investment you won’t regret, transforming your garden into the perfect spot for afternoon leisure and socialising. Consider options like lounge chairs, benches, day beds, corner sofas or even hammocks — whatever suits your lifestyle best.
Add an outdoor dining table for get-togethers and family meals
Palma 8 Seat Rope Rectangular Teak Fire Pit Dining Set in Grey - £4,499.00
You can’t have an outdoor gathering without a dining table. A focal point for family meals and soirées, choose a table that fits your space and garden style to encourage al fresco dining throughout the upcoming spring and summer months.
Go for a rustic, wooden aesthetic
Lavenham Corner Sofa Set in Linen - £2,999
Embrace the rustic charm and style of old English countryside cottages with the addition of some beautiful wooden furniture. Exuding a timeless allure, this natural material adds warmth to any space. Enhance the rustic vibe using furniture with a weathered finish to create a cosy and earthy outdoor setting.
Select light colours and aluminium furniture for a bright, inviting design
Lima Deluxe Aluminium Swing Seat in Latte - £2,199.00
Aluminium garden sets in light colours reflect sunlight and create a fresh and airy atmosphere. Think tables, chairs and sofa frames in whites, creams or pastels. Plus, aluminium is durable and lightweight, making it ideal for outdoor use. Name a better garden furniture material—we’ll wait.
Position your patio furniture set to utilise the sun’s rays
Monterrey 6 Seat Rope Teak Firepit Bar Set in Grey - £3,699
Consider areas of sunlight and shade in your outdoor space and arrange your patio furniture to take full advantage of the suns rays throughout the day. Position comfortable bistro chairs in the morning sun while you enjoy that first dose of caffeine. Meanwhile, your dining set can bask in golden hour light for magical suppers during sunsets.
Once cushions are in place, zhuzh them up so they’re plump and keep their shape
Acrisol Helix Gris Claro Medium Scatter Cushion - £24.99
Agora Scala Celeste Medium Scatter Cushion - £24.99
Agora Lines Marino Small Scatter Cushion - £14.99
Sometimes, it’s the little things that add an extra touch of comfort and luxury. Give your cushions a good fluff every morning and evening to help them keep their shape and look fresh, cosy and more inviting.
Add vibrancy by planting seasonal flowers
Kalama 4 Seat Round Dining Set with Teak Table in Latte - £1,299
Spring is the time for new beginnings and flowers. Lots and lots of flowers. Incorporate traditional seasonal blooms like daffodils, tulips and crocuses to create an eye-catching display that adds an extra dash of colour and vibrancy to your flower beds.
No lawn? No problem – get creative and plant your bulbs in colourful pots that you can dot around your patio or decking area.
Add spring patio furniture, like a dining set, sofa or recliner
Quay Sun Lounger In Linen - £449.00
Spring calls for newness — like some fresh spring patio furniture. Add a new dining set, a cosy sofa or a couple of loungers to your garden. Feel like being bougie? Treat yourself to a daybed or hanging chair to create the ultimate chill zone to enjoy the blooming surroundings and fresh spring weather.
Get a pergola to enjoy your garden during spring, whatever the weather
PergoSTET 3m x 3m Steel Square Pergola in Grey - £1,429
Pergolas are an undeniably beautiful and elegant structure with the power to transform any garden. Not only do they create an inviting extension of your home, but they also provide stylish shelter that can be used for dining, relaxing or entertaining, whatever the weather.
Perfect from those unpredictable spring showers, they offer protection from the rain while letting in the sun's warmth. Decorate with some climbing plants or string up twinkly lights to make it beautiful and inviting, day or night.
Build an outdoor kitchen for hosting meals now that the weather is getting warmer
Kamado BBQ 22" Ceramic Grill in Black - £849
Now that the weather’s warming up, it’s the perfect time to invest in a DIY project and build that outdoor kitchen you’ve always longed for.
Great for al fresco dining and hosting, an outdoor kitchen will allow you to cook your meals in the fresh air and engage with your guests, rather than keeping you isolated indoors. Plus, you won’t get any of that smokey smell in the house. Add a grill, fridge and some storage for convenience. Oh, and maybe a pizza oven — that counts as an essential, right?
Looking for inspiration, take a look at our outdoor kitchen ideas guide.
Choose durable Luna outdoor fabrics that will stand the test of time and brighten up your outdoor space
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Sofa Set with Coffee Table in Oyster Grey - £4,999
Frequent outdoor furniture replacements are a thing of the past thanks to durable Luna outdoor fabrics that can be left outside all year round.
These multi-taskers can withstand the elements, like harsh exposure, rain, wind and mildew. And they look good at the same time, retaining colour for years to come. Do you know what that means? Less time having to prep your garden come next spring!
Select stylish rattan furniture
Tuscany 3 Seat Rattan Sofa Set in Cool Grey - £2,999.00
Rattan garden furniture is one of the most popular options for outdoor garden furniture — and for good reason. Known for its elegant and timeless design, it’s an absolute classic for spring thanks to its lightweight material and durability. Available in various sizes and styles, a touch of rattan will add the sophistication to your outdoor space that you’ve been looking for.
Prepare your garden for spring with Harbour Lifestyle
Now you know when to prepare your garden for spring, as well as what to do to get everything looking in ship shape. Whether you have wooden, aluminium or rattan sets, get them ready for the new season and longer and warm days ahead with our top tips for cleaning and maintenance. But preparing your garden for Spring is so much more than that. Embrace the refresh that spring brings and take it one step further by creating an inviting and vibrant outdoor space you can use all spring and summer long.
From adding a splash of colour with pastel cushions and season blooms to investing in a stylish yet functional pergola or rattan set, these simple yet effective changes can transform the look and feel of your garden. Embrace the season of renewal with Harbour Lifestyle and our wide range of high-quality, luxurious garden furniture and accessories that reflect the joy of spring. From aluminium to rattan and wood — we have it all.
