But with spring around the corner, Brits across the country will be preparing their outdoor spaces for more frequent use. 

One furniture specialist has shared his tips and tricks to help revamp your grubby table and chairs in time for the warmer weather following four simple steps.

Matthew Lock, director of luxurious garden furniture specialists Luxus Home and Garden, said springtime is the perfect excuse to deep clean and prepare your garden for sunny weather.

He says the first step is to inspect and access your furniture before giving it a good deep clean with warm soapy water and a bristle brush.

Then he suggests carrying out any repairs on the outdoor seating to make sure it’s safe and durable for the rest of the year.

Next, Matthew says a lick of paint or covering it in a fun fabric can help make it look brand new again.

Lastly, the director suggests covering the furniture in a protective sealing can help maintain its life and shield it from moisture and UV rays.

Matthew said: “Winter can be a challenging time for garden items if left outside to face the harsh weather conditions. 

“However, spring is in sight and it’s a great opportunity to give garden furniture a deep clean and prepare your outdoor space for the brighter days ahead. 

“Inspect each item carefully for any damage and carry out any work needed to ensure it is structurally sound and rough edges are sanded properly. 

“A deep clean with warm, soapy water and a soft bristle brush can make a world of difference, while an equal parts white vinegar and water solution can be used to tackle stubborn dirt or grime. 

“When the item has dried, it may be worth applying a protective sealer, which is recommended every 12 to 18 months, depending on the type of wood. 

“With winter on its way out, it’s worth taking a little time now to give garden items a new lease of life as we prepare to spend more time enjoying our outdoor spaces.”

Here are Matthew’s four top tips on how to revive your winter-beaten garden furniture.

Deep clean to banish dirt and grime  

Outdoor furniture can be exposed to a range of dirt, grime, algae and bird mess in the darker months. 

Tackle stains with a soft bristle brush or cloth and a solution of warm, soapy water. Particularly stubborn dirt can be banished with an equal parts white vinegar and water solution. 

It’s important not to use harsh chemicals such as bleach, while pressure washers on a high setting can cause chips and cracks, so care should be taken. 

Carry out necessary repairs  

Rough edges, chips and cracks are not uncommon with wooden items, so it’s worth tackling these early to avoid bigger problems down the line. 

Pay close attention to joints to make sure the item’s structural integrity is good, and sand down any blemishes to ensure a smooth finish. 

Metal furniture can be prone to rust, which can often be tackled with a wire brush and rust remover. 

A fresh coat of paint or new fabric  

Exposure to the harsh winter elements can leave outdoor furniture in need of a facelift. 

A new coat of paint or fabric can make a big difference, giving it a fresh look and feel and this can also be useful if you want to give your whole garden a new theme or aesthetic. 

You may also consider purchasing some new cushions to give an old item a new look. 

Don’t forget the protective seal  

Protective seals play an important role in maintaining an item’s lifespan and keeping and shielding it from moisture and the sun’s UV rays. 

Different types of wood can require an oil to add some colour, so make sure you choose one that is suitable for your wood and taste. If you prefer your wood to grow old gracefully, we suggest you keep your surfaces clean, which will enable the wood to possess an even patina throughout. 

If you decide to treat your wood, the general rule is to apply a protective coat every 12 or 18 months, depending on its usage and condition.