Guide · Care
How to clean and care for aluminium and powder-coated planter boxes — simple routine care, coastal cleaning, keeping drainage clear, and what to avoid. POBOX planters are made to be low-maintenance.
In short
Powder-coated aluminium planters are low-maintenance — they won't rust or rot, and generally need only an occasional wash to keep the finish looking its best.
A little routine care — a gentle wash, keeping drainage clear, and a more frequent rinse near the coast — keeps a planter performing for decades.
Answers
Wash with mild soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse — that is usually all that is needed. Avoid abrasives, solvents and harsh chemicals, which can dull the powder-coat. POBOX planters are made to be low-maintenance.
Very little — aluminium won't rust or rot, so there is no sealing or painting; an occasional wash keeps the finish looking its best.
Near the coast, rinse planters more often with fresh water to remove salt build-up, and specify a coastal-grade powder-coat; otherwise care is the same gentle wash. POBOX specifies coastal-grade finishes for seaside sites.
Avoid abrasive pads and scourers, solvents, and harsh or acidic cleaners, which can scratch or dull the powder-coat. Mild soapy water and a soft cloth are all that is needed.
No — powder-coated aluminium doesn't need sealing or repainting like timber or raw steel; the finish is durable and UV-stable, and if it is ever damaged the powder-coat can be refreshed.
Keep drainage outlets clear of soil and debris so water moves away cleanly; this protects the planting, the finish and any surface below. POBOX details drainage and liners as part of the planter.
With basic care, powder-coated aluminium planters last decades — they won't rust or rot and the finish holds up outdoors. See the aluminium planter boxes guide and our installation, maintenance & warranty page.
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