Wondering how to maintain that wood picnic table of yours? With a few simple tasks, you can keep it in tip-top shape year after year.

How to care for your picnic table in three easy steps:

Thoroughly clean your picnic table.

Use a power washer or hose to spray off dirt and grime. Remember to spray the benches and legs in addition to the tabletop. Use a wood cleaner to remove any stubborn dirt stains left after spraying.

Apply a finish.

If you haven’t applied a finish to your picnic table before, or it’s been at least two years since you’ve done it, now is a good time. It will help prevent rain, snow and moisture from soaking into the wood. Choose from a stain, paint or waterproofing sealer; which you choose depends on the look you want and the protection you need. Apply the finish following the manufacturer’s instructions. Looking for some inspiration? Check out our blogs on how to stain a two-tone picnic table and how to paint a kid's picnic table.

Keep it clean.

If you store your picnic table outside, keep an eye on it when it’s not in use, especially during the fall and winter seasons. Buildup of foliage, ice or snow can trap in moisture, which can lead to mildew and rot. Brush off any buildup and clear the area around the picnic table legs on a regular basis.

As with most outdoor wood products, proper care and maintenance of your wood picnic table throughout the year is essential to its lasting performance.

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