Wrought iron patio furniture is an investment that lasts a lifetime. Some great tips on how to clean and repaint wrought iron patio furniture.
If you don’t take care of it properly, it could end up looking like junk. Learn how to keep your wrought iron patio furniture looking great! Wrought iron patio furniture has been around for centuries, and it’s still popular today. It’s durable, easy to maintain, and looks good in any garden setting.
Let me show you how to clean and repaint wrought iron patio furniture. You’ll love these tips on painting wrought iron patio furniture.

supplies
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- Wire Brush
- Steel Wool
- Orbit Sander
- Sand Paper
- Protective Eyewear
- Gloves
- Mask (if sanding)
- Tack Cloths for Metal
- Rust-Oleum 241526 Comfort Grip (this is the ticket!)
- Rust-Oleum 215215-6 PK Stops Rust Reformer Spray Paint, Black ( Pack of 6 )(used two one the bench, 1 can for each chair and 2 cans for table)
- Rust-Oleum 249127 Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover, 12 Oz, Flat Black (used two one the bench, 1 can for each chair and 2 cans for table)
- Plastic Bucket (for washing)
- Canvas Drop Cloth (4 x 12 or 4 x 15)
You can click on any of the photos below to purchase:
Cleaning & Painting Tutorial for Wrought Iron Outdoor Furniture
Wrought iron is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture because it’s weatherproof and durable. But before you start painting, read this blog post to learn how to prep your wrought iron furniture properly.
1. Remove dirt with soap and water.
If you’re cleaning your wrought iron patio furniture, use warm soapy water (use a mild soap detergent such as Dawn Dish Soap) and a soft cloth. You’ll need to scrub off any rust stains first.
Then rinse the piece thoroughly with clean water. A garden hose works perfect for this step.
2. Remove any rust

Scrub off rust with steel wool or wire brush. With a wire brush remove any chipping paint or rust area.
You may need to use an orbit sander to clean up arm rests with chipping and flaking paint. It is important to remove any loose paint to prevent rust from reappearing on the surface. Also, it will help to make the surface smooth for the paint. The paint will have a better bond to the surface.
3. Clean with tack cloth
Use a clean tack cloth and wipe down your furniture to remove debris from sanding and scrubbing. You want a clean surface when priming the furniture.
4. Lay down a canvas drop cloth
Protect your lawn by laying down a canvas drop cloth. It can be reused for other painting projects.
5. Prime

Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer is going to instantly cover rust and add a protected, paintable surface!
If you do not own a Rust-Oleum 241526 Comfort Grip, you need to snag one. Believe me when I say it is the ticket when using spray paint.

This paint is for use on exterior or interior rusted metal surfaces only. It is a water-based film forming product converts rust into a paintable surface.
First, apply two coats of primer to the entire piece. Then, let each coat dry completely before applying another coat. This will help prevent rust and other damage.
To prevent drips, move your spray can in a back and forth motion.
6. Wait

It dries to touch in 20-40 minutes and per can covers up to 12 sq ft. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next coat.
For best results, let your wrought iron furniture completely dry over night after the last coat of primer has been applied. It creates a flat black finish that can be painted 24 hours following application with any oil-based top coat.
7. Paint
Now let’s make some magic and make the dull wrought iron furniture look new. Your wrought iron patio furniture is going to be an investment that lasts for many years.
You will need to apply two coats of Rust-Oleum 249127 Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover, 12 Oz, Flat Black. To prevent drips, move your spray can in a back and forth motion.
Let each coat dry completely before applying the next coat. You should apply two coats.
8. let dry overnight
After the final coat dries completely, let it sit overnight before using. If you’re painting outside, make sure to cover any exposed areas with plastic sheeting to protect them from rain.

It is amazing how a little elbow grease and paint can make old furniture look new again. Many more years of enjoyment from this glider.

The Ballard Design table that is 15-years old looks new again. This furniture is well constructed furniture to last a lifetime.
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Remember you can save money but restoring your items. It just takes a little bit a work and some extra time.
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Have a wonderful day, sweet friend!

Allyson says
It looks brand new again! I agree, the comfort grip attachment is a must have. I’d like to invite you to the Home Matters Link Party Thursday 9pm (est) through Monday. Hope to see you share you links each week! @ Southern Sunflowers .com
Tammy says
Allyson, thank you so much. I will definitely join your link party.
Jennifer Howard says
This came out so good!! Also, why don’t I have one of those spray paint can thingys????
Tammy says
Jennifer, you need to get one! It’s the ticket! You will not have clogging issues and so easy on the hands.
Leslie Watkins says
It looks fabulous! Great job! That spray handle looks amazing! I’m following your tips soon!
Tammy says
Oh good, Leslie. I am so glad you told me the other day that Gary has one of those spray handles. It is the ticket! I love it. You can buy them in a pack of two. I highly recommend it and the Rust-Oleum paints listed in the post.