Keep expensive weather-resistant furnishings looking fresh and new for many years. These tips are provided by the American Home Furnishings Alliance:

Aluminum frames: Clean with mild soap and water. For non-textured surfaces, apply an automotive wax every few months. On textured finishes, periodically apply baby or mineral oil.

Occasionally spray oil lubricant on chair swivels or glides.

Tempered-glass tabletops: Clean regularly with a soft cloth, a mild detergent and warm water. Buff dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Or, commercial glass cleaners can be used.

Outdoor wicker: Vacuum gently or brush with a soft-bristle brush. Hose off every few weeks and clean periodically with mild detergent and water. Rinse; air-dry.

Vinyl straps: Wash with mild detergent and warm water, using a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse well. Remove scuff marks by rubbing with toothpaste on a dry cloth.

Remove mildew with a solution of warm water, mild detergent and bleach (no more than 1/4-cup to 3 gallons of water). Apply vinyl protectant to the straps after cleaning.

Sling furniture: Wash with mild soap and water. Rinse; air-dry.

Cushions: Vacuum to remove organic material and prevent decay. Clean by sponging with mild detergent and warm water. Rinse well and air-dry.

For mildew, use a solution of 1 cup bleach and a squirt of detergent per gallon of water. Scrub with a sponge or soft brush. Rinse with clean water and air-dry. Always test an inconspicuous spot first to make sure the color won’t fade. Bleach may not be suitable for some fabrics.

Wrought-iron and steel: Clean with warm, soapy water. To maintain the gloss on non-textured surfaces, apply automotive wax. On textured finishes, periodically apply mineral or baby oil.

If rust develops, clean area by sanding lightly, then wipe down and apply touch-up paint (ideally provided by the manufacturer).

Hardwoods: Clean with mild detergent and water. Rinse well. Some manufacturers recommend an occasional application of oil.

Teak and Jarrah woods can stay outdoors year-round. Teak ages to a mellow gray color. Shops that sell teak often supply the proper oil for rubbing into the wood.

Pine, oak and cedar should be stored over winter.

Painted woods will require painting every year or so, but each coat should be thin so paint buildup doesn’t happen too soon.

Umbrellas or canopies: Scrub with a long-handled brush, mild soap and water. Spray silicone on the joints of wire frames. Use wax or furniture polish on market umbrellas with wood poles and ribs.