How to Clean Garden Statues: A Comprehensive Guide
Garden statues, bird baths, and fountains are beautiful additions to any outdoor space, but they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Cleaning garden statues is a simple task that can be done with household supplies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Dish soap
- Water
- Vinegar (optional)
- Soft cloth or scrub brush
- Sprayer nozzle
- Garden hose
Different Materials for Garden Statues
Garden statues can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Bronze
- Concrete
- Wood
- Marble
- Iron
The cleaning method you use will vary depending on the material of the statue.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
1. Rinse the Statue
Start by rinsing the statue with plain water from a garden hose. Use a sprayer nozzle to gently remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Mix a Cleaning Solution
Mix a few drops of dish soap with a bucket of water. If the statue is heavily soiled, you can add a few drops of vinegar to the solution.
3. Clean the Statue
Use a soft cloth or scrub brush to gently scrub the statue with the cleaning solution. Be sure to rinse the statue thoroughly with water after cleaning.
4. Dry the Statue
Wipe the statue dry with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry.
Cleaning Statues Made of Different Materials
- Wooden Statues: Be sure to wash with the grain of the wood and raise the statue off the ground so it can dry thoroughly.
- Iron Statues: Scrape the metal with sandpaper and then, using a wire brush, wash with soap and water.
- Bronze Statues: Apply a thin coat of wax after the statue has been washed and dried. Use a clear wax, not car wax, and buff it once the wax has dried to make your statue shine.
Tips for Cleaning Garden Statues
- Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning garden statues, as they may damage or kill surrounding plants and/or tarnish the statue.
- Don’t attempt to clean statuary, especially concrete sculptures, if temperatures are near or below freezing. Concrete absorbs moisture and is likely to crack as it expands.
- If the sculpture is small and delicate, dispense with the hosing and use a soft paint brush to gently remove dust and debris.
- For heavily soiled statues, you may need to repeat the cleaning process several times.
Protecting Your Garden Statues
Once your garden statues are clean, you can protect them from the elements by applying a sealant. This will help to keep them looking their best for years to come.
Conclusion
Cleaning garden statues is a simple task that can be done with household supplies. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your garden statues looking their best for years to come.
