How to Clean Cast Iron Table Legs
One of the great things about cast iron is that it lasts longer than alternative metals, and it's extremely durable.
However, as with any type of furniture, metal furniture can collect dust and grime, so we would like to share with our readers today how you can properly care for your cast iron table legs.
Step 1: Fill two buckets or spray bottles with warm water.
You’ll need to both wash and rinse your cast iron table legs. One of your buckets or spray bottles will be reserved for just rinsing, and this one will be filled with only water. Ensure your water temperature is not too hot for you to hold or so hot that it causes your skin to burn.
If you are cleaning a table or bench that is inside, we recommend using a spray bottle.
If you are cleaning outdoor furniture, it will probably be easier to use a garden hose to rinse these items.
Step 2: Add vinegar or soap to water.
You don't need to purchase an expensive cleaner. Just use a distilled white vinegar or mild cleansers such as dish soap or a household cleaner to gently clean the iron without damaging it. You want to avoid antibacterial soaps or cleansers that contain bleach.
For indoor cast iron table legs - we recommend using vinegar for a milder cleaning option. If you are cleaning wrought iron kept indoors, distilled white vinegar can be substituted for soap. Add 1/2 cup (118 mL) white vinegar to 1⁄2 gallon (1.9 L) (1892 mL) of water.
For outdoor cast iron furniture - vinegar will probably not be strong enough to eliminate all of the dirt, so we recommend using a household add 1 tbsp. (14 mL) of soap to 1 qt. (946 mL) of water. If using a household cleaner, use 1/4 cup (59 mL) to 1/2 gallon (1892 mL) of water.
Step 3: Remove non-metal items from your table.
If possible, you want your piece to be completely bare so you can clean all of the table legs. So, we recommend taking off any cushions, pillows, or coverings.
If your cast iron table legs are made out of several different types of materials, such as a bench with a wooden seat and iron sides, you won't be able to isolate just the iron part of your furniture piece. If this is the case, clean carefully in the places where the two materials meet. You can also try wrapping the non-wrought iron parts of your piece in plastic wrap.
Step 4: Soak a sponge or washcloth with your cleaning solution.
We suggest don't squeezing the excess water from your sponge as you will need plenty of soapy water to ensure that you reach every nook and cranny of your wrought iron item. If you are using a spray bottle, spray the sponge or cloth with your cleaning solution until it’s thoroughly dampened.
Step 5: Start scrubbing!
You will start cleaning your cast iron table legs to remove dust and dirt with the soapy sponge. Make sure to wipe your metal table legs in a circular motion, working in small sections at a time, to fully clean the item.
Step 6: Rinse off the vinegar or soapy mixture.
Dip a clean sponge or cloth into your reserved bucket of water. Wipe your cast iron table legs again to rinse off the cleaning solution and dirt.
Remember that if you are washing your wrought iron outside, it may be easier to rinse with a garden hose.
Hopefully, this won't be the case, but if you find that the water in your bucket becomes excessively dirty, you may want to dump the dirty water and refill the bucket with fresh, clean water.
Step 7: Allow your cast iron table legs to dry out completely.
For outdoor pieces, you can just let the sun do the work as long as it's a sunny day. For indoor items, you will want to wipe your piece with a clean and dry cloth to remove all the excess moisture. Don't skip this last step because iron can rust.
Do you have additional questions about how to care for or maintain your cast iron table legs? Please feel free to contact us!
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