How to Give Your Garden Statues a Fresh New Look

As a homeowner, you take pride in your garden’s appearance. But have you ever stopped to think about the state of your garden statues? Those lovely naked ladies, giant fish, and regal eagles can add a touch of class to your outdoor space, but they can also become dull and grimy over time. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to clean and maintain your garden statues, so they can continue to be a beautiful focal point in your garden.

Before You Start Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning your garden statues, there are a few things to consider. First, think about what your statue is made of. Is it polyresin, concrete, marble, or bronze? Each material requires a different cleaning approach. Next, consider how delicate your statue is. Do you need to use gentle cleaning products and soft brushes to avoid damaging the details? Finally, think about the weather. It’s best to clean your statues when the temperatures are high enough to dry them quickly, so they don’t stay wet for too long.

Basic Cleaning Method

The first step in cleaning your garden statue is to give it a basic wash with a tap or hose on a gentle spray. This will loosen any dirt and grime that has built up on the surface. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to get into any nooks and crannies, and avoid using a power wash, which can damage delicate areas.

For a more thorough clean, mix 3 liters of warm water, 1 liter of all-purpose bleach, and 80ml of mild dish detergent. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the statue. Rinse with a hose on a gentle setting, and dry with a soft cloth to prevent streaks.

Specialized Cleaning Methods

Different materials require different cleaning methods. For polyresin, concrete, or marble statues, use a gentle wash with your cleaning solution and a soft cloth or sponge. For wood statues, scrub in the direction of the grain, and use a towel to aid drying before finishing with air drying. You can also add a coat of polyurethane or similar to preserve and protect the wood.

For bronze statues, use a non-ionic cleaner, water, and spot-free dishwasher soap. Wipe away the grime with a soft cloth, and use a non-wire scrubbing brush to clean hard-to-reach areas. Let the soap sit for a few minutes, then hose off and dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Removing Moss, Mould, and Mildew

If you have older statues that have developed moss, mould, or mildew, you’ll need to use a specialized cleaning solution. Add 150ml of TSP (trisodium phosphate) to your washing mix, and use a stiff brush to gently scrub the affected areas. Wear personal protection equipment, including long pants and sleeves, waterproof gloves, goggles, and a mask, as TSP can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.

Once you’ve scrubbed the entire statue, rinse with a garden hose on a mist or shower setting, and dry with a soft cloth. You can also coat the statue with zinc oxide primer or paint to prevent further growth.

Protecting Your Statues from the Elements

To protect your concrete statues from harsh weather conditions, apply a UV/water sealant as directed, and place your statue on a ventilated surface to dry for 24 hours. You can also add a clear sealer enamel spray for a glossy look, or use a concrete sealer.

Conclusion

Cleaning your garden statues may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s essential to keep them looking their best. By following these simple steps, you can restore your statues to their former glory and enjoy them for years to come.

Garden statues can add a touch of class to your outdoor space

Use gentle cleaning products and soft brushes to avoid damaging the details

Regular maintenance can help prevent moss, mould, and mildew from growing