Cleaning & Care

Regular periodic care of your Tropitone furniture will maintain its appearance and functionality better than occasional, heavy duty maintenance. Consider the specific conditions and usage to which your product is exposed so appropriate maintenance is provided. Product failure caused by a lack of reasonable and necessary care and maintenance is not covered by the product warranty.

Frames Acrylic Table Tops Teak Wood
Painted Finishes Cast Aluminum Tables Umbrellas
Fabric Rope Fiberglass Table Tops
Aluminum Umbrella Faux Leather Glass Table Tops
Umbrella Fabric Straps, & EZ Span™ Segments Stoneworks Table Tops
Umbrella Fiberglass Arms Woven Buckets Natural Stone Table Tops
Umbrella Painted Finish Stainless Steel Natural Stone Sealing
Umbrella Steel Base Plates Stainless Steel Stain or Rust Wood Umbrella

 

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Frames

Regularly tighten all hardware to avoid loosening which can lead to bolt failure and product breakage. Replace missing hardware (remove product from service until repaired). Regularly tighten the headrest bolts on all chaise lounges and recliners. Confirm movement is smooth without binding and that the ratchet engages properly at each position.

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Painted Finishes

Painted finishes are used on aluminum seating, tables and umbrellas. Periodically clean the finish with a sponge or soft bristle brush using a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C) . Rinse thoroughly. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. For gloss finishes, we recommend periodic waxing of the frame with a high grade automotive paste wax or the use of a commercially available protectant to help maintain and/or restore the luster of the finish. Protectants can be purchased at most casual furniture retailers.

Caution: In seaside use, salt can accumulate on the finish, leading to finish failure. In indoor pool areas, chlorides can accumulate on the finish, leading to finish failure. In both of these environments, repeated cycles of condensation followed by evaporation cause build-up of these aggressive corrosives. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will remove the concentrated deposits and protect the furniture finish per the above instructions.

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Fabric

The life of your patio furniture fabric largely depends on its care. Clean all spills promptly. Fabric life can be extended by simply rinsing down the patio furniture regularly with water. Certain suntan and sun block products may permanently discolor any fabric. This possibility can be minimized by immediately cleaning after contact. In addition, storing the cushions when not in use will extend cushion life.

Prepare a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (no warmer than 100° F / 38° C). Clean fabric with the solution using a sponge or soft bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Allow to air dry.

Hint: Standing a cushion on its side will help it drain faster.

Caution: Certain suntan and sun block products contain "PABA". PABA is harmful to fabric and can permanently discolor it; therefore, contact with cushions or slings should be avoided. If contact is made, cleaning the fabric immediately with a non-abrasive, mild soap and water solution followed by a fresh water rinse may minimize the possibility of discoloration. Laying a beach towel over the cushions or slings of outdoor furniture whenever you are using the furniture will prolong the fabric life.

  • Do not use a bleach solution unless specifically listed as a cleaning agent for the specific fabric, such as for solution dyed acrylics.
  • Do not submerse or allow cushions to lie in standing water.
  • Do not put cushions into the dryer.
  • Do not use harsh detergents or stiff bristle brushes.
  • Do not use Pine Oil cleaners or abrasive household cleaners.
  • Do not use heat or hot water.

Mildew may form on dirt or other substances deposited upon the fabric. Regular cleaning of the furniture will help to prevent its forming. If mildew does develop, add 1 cup bleach to the cleaning solution. Apply to the affected area and allow to soak in. Scrub with a soft bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary. For stubborn mildew stains, use a household mildew remover - test in an inconspicuous location first. FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.

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Rope

For general or light cleaning, begin by vacuuming or brushing dirt off the rope. Apply a solution of mild detergent and warm water and allow it to soak in. Gently clean with a sponge or soft bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly with clear water and allow the material to air dry. Do not use stain removers. For heavy stains or spot cleaning use the same mild detergent and warm water mixture. Blot the stained area with a sponge or soft cloth working inwards from the outside of the stain. Do not rub it. Once the spot is removed rinse the area to remove any soap residue. Blot any excess moisture with a dry sponge or towel. Allow the material to air dry.

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Faux Leather

Clean all spills promptly. For a quick, easy clean up - use baby wipes. For general cleaning, see the instructions in the FABRIC section.

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Straps, Lacing and EZ Span™ Segments

Vinyl straps, lacing and EZ Span™ segments must be cleaned frequently with a sponge or soft bristle brush using a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C). Rinse thoroughly.
In geographical areas with high concentrations of acid rain, fog and/or smog, vinyl must be cleaned monthly with a lukewarm water and ammonia mixture. Use three parts water to one part ammonia. Rinse thoroughly.
For furniture with woven straps or lacing, be sure to lift and clean beneath the strap and/or lace intersections. Commercial casual furniture cleaners will help lift embedded dirt and oil from vinyl and are available at leading casual furniture dealers. EZ Span™ segments have a slight texture; the segments may be cleaned lightly with a non-scratch scrub sponge or soft bristle brush to lift embedded dirt.

Caution: Do NOT use abrasive cleaners on vinyl straps, lacing or EZ Span™ segments.

Caution: Certain suntan and sun block products contain "PABA". PABA is harmful to vinyl and can permanently discolor it; therefore, contact with vinyl straps or lacing should be avoided. If contact is made, cleaning the vinyl immediately with a non-abrasive, mild soap and water solution followed by a fresh water rinse may minimize the possibility of discoloration. Laying a beach towel over the vinyl straps of outdoor furniture whenever you are using the furniture will help protect the vinyl from the discoloring effects of PABA.

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Woven Buckets

Clean all spills promptly. Follow the instructions in the FABRIC CLEANING AND CARE section.

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Stainless Steel

Remove cushions, and accessory pillows to prevent staining of fabric, as cleaners used on stainless steel may not be appropriate for fabric. Unsnap back and seat cushions, by gently pulling the snap at the connection to the cushion. Stack on a clean and dry surface.
Apply a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C) using a soft, clean cloth. Rub with the grain of the metal.
Rinse furniture thoroughly with clean water.
Dry thoroughly to prevent streaks, rubbing with the grain. Thorough rinsing and drying will remove detergent and allow the metal to "breathe", preventing corrosion.
Install seat cushions and snap into place. Install back cushions and snap into place. Notice corner module back cushions have a left and right back cushion. Replace accessory pillows.

Caution: Do NOT use the following products on stainless steel - damage may occur:

  • Bleach or cleaners containing bleach (can corrode stainless steel)
  • Hydrochloric acid or cleaners with chloride (can corrode stainless steel)
  • Abrasive pads or cleaners (will scratch or polish finish)
  • Rubbing motion against metal grain (can change finish)

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Stainless Steel Stain or Rust Removal

Should a stain or rust occur on the stainless steel, promptly clean the deposit. Lingering stains can become permanent. Rust can permanently etch or pit the stainless steel.

Apply a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner / polish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Test in an inconspicuous spot to insure original finish isn’t altered. Remember to rub with the metal grain (not in a circular motion). Rinse furniture thoroughly with clean water. Finally, dry thoroughly to prevent streaks, rubbing with the grain.

If the stain or rust remains, you can use a Scotch-Brite® No Scratch Multi-Purpose Scrub Sponge or a Scotch-Brite® General Purpose Hand Pad 7447 to polish the stainless steel. It is critical to rub with the metal grain (not in a circular motion). Rinse furniture thoroughly with clean water. Finally, dry thoroughly to prevent streaks, rubbing with the grain.

Caution: Salt or acid (from coffee, wine, orange juice, tomato juice, lemon, etc) can discolor stainless steel if not cleaned up promptly.

Seaside / Indoor Pool areas: Stainless Steel products used in seaside or indoor pool settings will require more frequent cleaning to remove chloride deposits to prevent corrosion and etching.

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Acrylic Table Tops

Avoid build-up of grease and stains by washing regularly with a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C). Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Hint: Occasional use of a high grade automotive paste wax will help keep the acrylic table looking new.

  • Do not use window cleaners or products containing ammonia or solvents on acrylic tops.
  • Do not use plastic covers over acrylic table tops. The resulting heat accumulation may cause the acrylic to bow.

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Cast Aluminum Table Tops and Aluminum Frames

See Painted Finishes in the Cleaning and Care section.

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Fiberglass Table Tops

Use a glass cleaner with ammonia.

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Glass Table Tops

Use a glass cleaner with ammonia.

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Stoneworks™ Solid Surface Table Tops

Avoid build-up of grease and stains by washing regularly with a non-abrasive sponge or soft bristle brush with a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C). To release embedded dirt, use a vinegar and water solution (equal parts each). Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

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Natural Stone Table Tops

Routine Care:

  • Clean spills immediately
  • Use a soft cloth to wipe stone
  • Use coasters
  • Only use products labeled for natural stone cleaning
  • Protect stone surface from hot items

To clean granite, marble and travertine, apply the natural stone cleaner to the stone surface. FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
Wipe off with a soft, absorbent cloth. For heavily soiled areas, allow cleaner to stand for about one minute before wiping off.

Caution: Alcohol or acid (from coffee, wine, orange juice, tomato juice, lemon, etc.) can etch stone sealer and natural stone if not cleaned up promptly. This will promote staining.

Caution: The following should NOT be used to clean natural stone - damage may occur:

  • Bleach or cleaners with bleach
  • Glass cleaners
  • Vinegar
  • Ammonia
  • Cleaners containing lemon or orange
  • Abrasive powders or liquids
  • Scouring pad or scrubbing sponge

Note: If a detergent is used on stone surface, a soap film will develop. Clean with a stone cleaner to remove the soap film. If liquids darken or discolor the stone surface, sealer recoating is necessary immediately. See section below for more on Natural Stone Sealing.

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Natural Stone Sealing

Sealing with quality stone care products will help to protect the granite, marble or travertine from absorbing liquids and staining. In a residential setting, sealing on a semi-annual (twice yearly) basis should be sufficient. In a commercial environment, more frequent sealing will be needed.

Sun exposure and other factors increase sealing frequency. If liquids darken or discolor the stone surface, sealer recoating is necessary immediately. Test by allowing water to remain for ten (10) minutes and observing the stone surface. If the stone darkens or absorbs the liquid, immediate sealing is needed.

FOLLOWING THE MANUFACTURER’S NATURAL STONE SEALER INSTRUCTIONS IS CRITICAL FOR GOOD RESULTS. Sealing with a penetrating (or impregnating) sealer will provide a protective coating to stand up to the daily use of stone cleaners, and normal exposure to liquids while minimizing opportunity for liquids and stains to penetrate the stone. Multiple coats of sealer may be needed on porous stone. Repeat penetrating sealer application until sealer isn’t absorbed by the stone.

When sealing the stone, protect stainless steel frames from the sealer. If the sealer contacts the stainless steel, immediately rinse the stainless steel with clean water, and dry thoroughly. Sealer will prevent the metal from “breathing”, and promote corrosion.
Should your natural stone incur a stain, contact a local stone resource for products and guidance regarding stain removal. Stain removal is difficult – in some cases, only fading of the stain will be achieved. It is far better to prevent stains with proper cleaning and sealing.

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Teak Wood

Periodically clean teak with a sponge or soft bristle brush using a cleaning solution with 1/4 cup (2 oz.) mild liquid soap in a gallon of lukewarm water (100° F / 38° C). Rinse thoroughly.

Teak will naturally weather to a soft grey patina color over time when exposed to the elements. This process could take up to several years depending on your climate. If you desire this natural finish, do nothing to the teak furniture other than periodic cleaning described above.

Mildew may form on teak; regular cleaning of outdoor furniture will help to prevent its forming. If mildew does develop, add 1/4 cup bleach to the cleaning solution. Apply to the affected area and scrub with a soft bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary.

Should you choose to retain the original look of teak, apply a high grade teak wood sealer before the product weathers. FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS. Be aware sealing will become a periodic maintenance task. Some teak sealer manufacturers recommend applying teak oil prior to sealing, which can intensify the color and grain of the wood. If the teak has already weathered and you wish to restore the original finish, apply teak wood cleaner that is designed to restore weathered teak. Tropitone does not warranty the furniture finish when sealed or oiled. Always FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS for application of oil, cleaner and sealer.

Caution: Do not get teak oil, teak sealer or teak cleaner on  the fabric.

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Umbrellas

Always close market umbrellas and patio umbrellas in their stands when not in use. All Tropitone umbrellas must always be closed and removed from service in windy conditions to protect umbrellas against damage from inclement weather, and to protect persons from potential injury due to umbrellas toppling or moving in such conditions. If market umbrellas or patio umbrellas become wet, open for a complete airing and make certain they are thoroughly dry before closing.
Occasional lubrication of the moving parts of market umbrellas and patio umbrellas with a silicon lubricant spray is recommended.

Caution: Do NOT get lubricant on fabric or finish.

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Aluminum Umbrella

If oxidation occurs, you may rub down the affected area with steel wool and follow up with a protective lubricant. Apply the protective lubricant, such as WD-40, to a cloth and then wipe onto the aluminum.

Caution: Do NOT get lubricant on fabric or finish.

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Umbrella Fabric

Follow the instructions in the FABRIC CLEANING AND CARE section.

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Umbrella Fiberglass Arms

Follow the instructions in the FABRIC CLEANING AND CARE section.

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Umbrella Painted Finish

Care for the finish as noted in the PAINTED FINISHES CLEANING AND CARE section.

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Umbrella Steel Base Plates

Steel base plates require regular cleaning and inspection, combined with prompt touch-up to scratches and nicks to help prevent rust from developing.

Should rust occur, use sandpaper to thoroughly remove any rust and apply a metal primer. FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS for use. Then follow the instructions in the PAINTED FINISHES Touching Up Finishes section.

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Wood Umbrella

Scrapes or scratches on wood poles may be touched up with a matching wood stain and covered with marine spar varnish. On an annual basis, lightly sand the exposed wood and varnish with a marine spar varnish. Teak umbrellas should be cared for as noted in the TEAK WOOD section.

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