Living in Jacksonville means soaking in warm weather and sunshine for most of the year. With pools being a popular backyard feature, keeping the surrounding area in great shape becomes just as important as maintaining the water itself. Pool furniture often gets overlooked in this process, especially when it comes to dealing with the effects of chlorine exposure. Over time, that same chlorine that keeps your pool clean can quietly damage your chairs, tables, and lounges.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just spending a quiet afternoon by the water, durable furniture helps make those moments more enjoyable. The problem is, chlorine doesn’t just stay in the pool. It splashes, drips, lingers in the air, and it ends up affecting whatever it touches, including your patio setup. Knowing what to watch out for and how to minimize damage can extend the life of your outdoor furniture by several seasons.
Understanding Chlorine And Its Effects
Chlorine plays a key role in pool care. It helps break down bacteria, keeps algae away, and makes the water safe to swim in. But while it’s great inside the pool, it can be pretty harsh on materials outside of it. When chlorine mixes with water and sunlight, it becomes more reactive. That’s when it starts to cause problems.
Different materials react in different ways. Some wear down faster, some fade, and others start to rust or warp. The closer your furniture is to the pool, the more it’s exposed. Even when chlorine doesn’t splash directly, vapor and mist from pool use can settle onto nearby surfaces. This kind of repeated exposure adds up, especially in a humid place like Jacksonville where outdoor furniture stays outside most of the year.
If you tend to leave your pool chairs or dining sets uncovered and close to the edge of the water, they’re more likely to absorb chlorine residue regularly. And if they’re not cleaned off often, that residue breaks down coatings, paint, and even the structure of the furniture itself.
Types Of Pool Furniture Affected By Chlorine
Not all pool furniture is built the same. The type of material used can make a big difference in how it holds up to chlorine. Here’s a quick breakdown of how common materials respond:
1. Metal Furniture
Chlorine and metal don’t mix well, especially if there’s any damage to the furniture’s protective finish. Once chlorine seeps in through scratches or cracks, it encourages rust to form. This happens quicker when the metal pieces are close to the pool with constant exposure to moisture. Even aluminum, which is treated to prevent corrosion, may show signs of wear over time.
2. Wooden Furniture
Wood brings a warm, natural vibe to the pool area, but it needs extra care. Chlorine can stain and dry out wooden furniture, causing it to warp or splinter. It pulls out natural oils that normally help protect the wood. Without regular oiling or sealing, wood furniture can fade and become brittle much faster than expected.
3. Plastic and Synthetic Furniture
Plastic furniture offers some resistance but isn’t completely safe. Over time, exposure to chlorine can cause colors to fade and some plastics to become brittle. Cheaper materials might show cracks, while synthetic wicker can start to unravel. Prolonged contact with chlorine, especially under strong sunlight, takes a toll on these surfaces.
Protecting Your Pool Furniture From Chlorine Damage
Chlorine damage isn’t impossible to prevent. With a few routine habits, you can help keep your furniture in good shape all season.
1. Cleaning Tips
Clean off chlorine regularly. Wipe down your metal, plastic, or synthetic furniture with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving behind any residue. For wooden items, use cleaners made for wood and avoid harsh chemicals that may react with residual chlorine. Cleanings should happen at least once a week during pool season.
2. Use of Protective Covers
Covers can add years to the life of your furniture. Invest in breathable, water-resistant covers that fit your furniture. These help reduce the impact of pool chemicals, sunlight, and even rain. Make it a habit to cover everything when it’s not being used, especially if it’s close to the water.
3. Placement and Storage
If possible, move your pool furniture a few feet from the edge. This simple change keeps it out of the splash zone where chlorine levels are higher. During stretches when the pool won’t be used, like during rainstorms or vacations, store furniture in a shaded or covered spot such as a shed or garage.
4. Routine Maintenance
Doing a quick check every couple of weeks can catch damage early. Look for signs of rust, splinters, or cracking. Fixing those small issues as they show up will make your furniture last a lot longer and help prevent further chlorine damage.
Best Materials For Chlorine-Resistant Pool Furniture
Some outdoor furniture is built to handle tough conditions better than others. When you shop for new pieces, focus on materials that hold up well around pools.
1. Treated Metals and Aluminum
Furniture made from powder-coated aluminum or other rust-resistant metals often performs well. The protective layer helps prevent oxidation and corrosion, both of which chlorine speeds up. These options tend to require less maintenance and stay looking good longer.
2. Synthetic Rattan and High-Quality Plastics
Synthetic wicker made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a solid choice. It’s more durable, colorfast, and better equipped to handle chlorine and UV rays. Other plastics might work too, but avoid low-quality resins that easily crack or bleach.
3. Treated Woods
Some woods stand up better in pool areas. Teak and cedar are naturally durable and can be treated to handle water and chemicals better. Regular oiling helps maintain their strength and appearance. If you want wood furniture by the pool, make sure it’s properly sealed or pre-treated for outdoor use.
Palm Casual carries chlorine-resistant options that make sense for poolside settings. With the right materials, you won’t have to worry as much about fading, rusting, or damage over the summer months.
A Poolside Setup That Keeps Its Shine
Taking care of your pool furniture is easier than it sounds. By picking the right materials and sticking to a simple routine, you can keep your setup looking sharp for years. Chlorine might be tough on surfaces, but a little bit of effort goes a long way.
Whether you’re relaxing with a book or throwing a weekend pool party, your outdoor space should be comfortable and inviting. Choosing furniture that holds up to chlorine helps keep everything in top shape. Protect what you’ve invested in, and you’ll get plenty of stress-free seasons out of your poolside furniture.
To ensure your pool furniture withstands chlorine exposure and remains a beautiful part of your outdoor space, consider choosing materials that offer better resistance. For those in sunny spots, explore options for rust-free patio furniture in Orlando. Palm Casual has you covered with durable and stylish choices perfect for your poolside oasis.
