For everyday spills and messes on indoor or outdoor aluminum furniture, wipe the furniture down with a damp cloth and then thoroughly dry the furniture with a non-abrasive dry cloth.

When used indoors, aluminum dining furniture is relatively easy to maintain. When the finish starts to look a little dull (every few months), completely wash the furniture with warm water, soap and vinegar. Follow up by thoroughly drying the furniture before the next usage.

When using aluminum furniture outdoors, it requires a little more care and upkeep. Instead of waiting for the finish to begin to dull, plan on regularly cleaning outdoor furniture every few weeks with the warm water, soap and vinegar mixture. Substances like suntan oils, dirt, human perspiration and pollutants in the air will start to wear on the protective finish and the regular cleanings will help to keep the surfaces free from these harmful materials.

Once the finish begins to wear away, the furniture will begin to discolor and the surface will develop a pitted, rough surface. Just a regular cleaning will not be enough to get rid of the pitted surface. To return the furniture back to its original finish, use a steel wool pad soaked in soapy water. Polish the furniture with the steel wood pad, rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Whether the furniture is indoors or outdoors, it is a good idea to store it when not in use. Thoroughly wash and dry the furniture before storing it away. After making sure it is completely dry, bring any outdoor furniture inside. If possible, stack chairs and tables to reduce the amount of space needed. Cover all pieces with a tarp, or with a designated furniture cover.

Blair Dovidas, a Product Consultant at Central Restaurant Products says that following these tips will help to protect your investment. "If the customer takes some extra precautions, they can ensure the lifespan and longevity of these pieces," said Dovidas.

We have additional care tips for aluminum outdoor furniture.

About Central Restaurant Products:

Central Products opened in 1981 near downtown Indianapolis and has grown to become one of the nation's leading distributors of quality commercial restaurant equipment and supplies. Our knowledgeable Product Consultants with industry experience are available during convenient hours-phone lines are open for business Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST. They can be reached at 800.222.5107. Shop online; request a 289-page color catalog or sign up for e-mail promotions at centralrestaurant.com