Taking Care of Your Bistro Set

Knowing how to care for wood, metal, glass and mosaic tile tabletops helps maintain their beauty over the years.

Bistro tables

Patio Precautions

UV rays, rain, dust, fluctuating heat, and cold all conspire to weather outdoor furniture quickly. Tables made of metal, wood, and wicker stand up quite well to outdoor use, but still need routine maintenance.

Metal Today's metal bistro sets are rust-resistant, but still benefit from seasonal cleaning with water and mild soap. Lightly scrub off any spots of rust with a wire brush or steel wool dipped in a mildly acidic solution, such as distilled vinegar and finish with a coat of paste wax. Commercial rust removers are effective, but are also highly corrosive and require the utmost care and proper protective gloves. Wicker and Wood Wicker was once made of relatively delicate plant materials such as vines or branches, but today's resin wicker looks attractive and is much tougher and easier to maintain. Wicker and aluminum bistro sets require only occasional power washing or hand scrubbing with a cloth or soft brush, water, and nonabrasive cleansers. Vacuuming with a brush attachment removes deep-down dust and dirt from wicker and keeps seat cushions bright and clean.

Wood bistro sets for outdoor use are made of durable teak or eucalyptus, and are sealed or painted for added protection. Dirt deteriorates wood furniture, so regular cleaning a few times a year is key. Use a special wood cleaner and dry completely. Regular examination of hardware and routine sanding, sealing, oiling, or painting will also extend the life of the furniture and keep it looking fresh

Mosaic tile and glass tabletops need much the same routine cleaning as other furniture: regular wipe-downs with water or gentle cleaners and a soft cloth. It is particularly important to check mosaic tiles for cracks and seal any you find with clear glue or sealant to avoid moisture damage to the tabletop. Avoid using overly harsh or acidic cleansers or rough sponges that may scratch the glass or tile.

Finally, the best way to protect any outdoor bistro set is to use fitted covers when not in use.

Indoor Solutions

Bistro tables designed for indoor use also may be made of wood, glass, metal, or mosaic tiles. Regular dusting with a soft cloth is your main defense against wear. Indoor bistro tabletops can also be protected from scratches and spills with coasters, trivets, or place mats. Protect wood floors by putting glides or wool pads under metal chairs and tables, particularly if your set is heavy.

Cleaning your indoor bistro table may be best summed up as using a soft touch on a regular basis. Most tabletops, whether glass, mosaic tile, or wood, are easily cleaned with a soft cloth and water or a very mild cleanser designed for its particular surface after each use. If more rigorous cleaning is needed, use more elbow grease rather than abrasive or acidic cleaners.

Whether your bistro set is glass, metal, wood, or mosaic, treating it with care will be a worthwhile investment, enabling you to enjoy it for years to come.