It happens to all outdoor furniture with time: once majestic sitting in the sun, the elements wear their hardened outer skin down. As the weather takes its toll, what once looked great sitting on your patio or near your garden is reduced to a worn centerpiece; a show of what used to be, but is now in disrepair.

It can happen to all outdoor furniture, no matter how well it is taken care of. Be it weather, pets, or even moisture, all furniture can fall into a state of unseemliness. But it doesn't have to be the end of your furnishings. With a little hard work, and the proper cleaning supplies, your outdoor furniture can be back to new and ready to be back out on your patio in no time!

● There is an old adage that is applicable to this situation: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The best way to keep your outdoor furniture clean is by taking proper care of it in the first place. During the winter, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place – somewhere temperature controlled, if possible. Also, make sure its in a place that pets can't get into: animals love warm, cushioned places, and if they can find a hiding place among your furniture, they will gladly take it. When you are not using your outdoor furniture, take it out of the sun. And try to keep it out of extreme moisture.

● Even if your best efforts are not enough, a little cleaning can make your outdoor furniture look like new. If your outdoor furniture has canvas cushions that can be removed, try throwing them in the washing machine and allowing to air dry – but always follow the instructions on the tag. If that doesn't work, mix a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with a gallon of warm water, and a tablespoon of borax (it doesn't need to be exact). Using a sponge, scrub down the canvas until it looks and smells clean once more. Spray off the wash with a hose, and place out in the sun to dry. For added protection, spray on a fabric protector before your cushions gets too dry.

This mixture will work for all of your canvas on outdoor furniture and accessories. This includes umbrellas and canopies as well – not just your cushions!

● For plastic outdoor furniture, mix three scoops of dish washing detergent with a gallon of warm water. Use a sponge to thoroughly scrub down all your plastic furniture, and place in the sun for drying. Repeat the process until you get your furniture as clean as you want it to be.

● Wood outdoor furniture can be cleaned in much the same ways, if its been properly treated. Mix a little soft cleaner, such as dish washing liquid, with warm water. With a sponge, scrub the wood thoroughly with the solution. If your wood is rough around the edges, or the sponge is catching anywhere, it may be time to consider refinishing your wood. A new finish will not only clean the wood to the core, but will offer long-lasting protection for outdoor furniture for years to come.

Just because it has a little dirt doesn't mean your outdoor furniture is entirely a waste. Rather, it just means that it is time to give it a good cleaning. Repeat these processes as often as you think it needs. Proper cleaning often will guarantee the satisfaction you have with your furniture for years to come.