Garden gnomes are an essential decorative element for our outdoor spaces today. However, like any other element exposed to the elements, they must be cleaned regularly. This will help them last as long as possible. Depending on the material they are made of, however, they must be cared for in different ways.
Easier with plastic gnomes
Have you decided to place plastic gnomes in your garden? Then you will find it easy to care for them. Thanks to their smooth surface, they are not easily covered in green algae. Depending on the level of dirt, even a conventional dishwasher can deliver excellent results.
If your garden gnomes are made of cheap plastic, you can even make do with soapy water. Soak them in this water before washing them with a soft cloth. Then rinse them with a watering can before drying them in the air or with a cotton cloth.
More effort with glazed terracotta gnomes
Glazed terracotta garden gnomes must be cared for more regularly and thoroughly. This will allow you to enjoy their natural appearance for as long as possible. A bucket of water should be kept ready for their care. Although it is not strictly necessary, you should also add a small amount of conventional cleaning agent. The care should proceed as follows:
- Soak the gnomes
- Wash with a sponge to remove dirt
- Rinse with water
- Dry in the air
What about terracotta gnomes?
If your collection consists mainly of terracotta gnomes, you will need to take a little more time to care for them. First, soak them for several hours in a bucket of water. You do not need any detergent for this process. However, you should add some citric acid and concentrated vinegar to the water. This will help your gnomes rid themselves of impurities while they are soaking. After that, you only need to rub them with a brush before drying them in the sun.
Choose the right time!
You may be wondering why we have not talked about caring for plaster garden gnomes. The answer is simple: they are the most delicate option in this area. A few weeks exposed to the weather can be enough to break them completely.
Experts recommend late autumn as the ideal time for a major annual cleaning. At this time, the frost will not be long in coming, and the garden gnomes can be moved to a sheltered place. So take advantage of this opportunity to thoroughly clean every member of your collection. Do not bring the gnomes back into your garden until after winter!