As summer winds down and winter approaches, it’s time to prepare your patio furniture for colder weather. Proper patio furniture maintenance will prevent damage from moisture, freezing temperatures, and prolonged exposure to the elements, keeping your patio furniture looking new. Here’s a guide on how to care for your outdoor furniture and store it safely so it’s ready for use when the warm weather returns.
Why Patio Furniture Maintenance Matters
Though often not at the forefront of our minds when it comes to prepping for winter, outdoor chairs, couches, and accessories require our attention before the first snow hits. Outdoor furniture is designed to withstand varying weather conditions, but winter’s harsh elements can cause wear and tear that shortens its life. The mixture of moisture and freezing temperatures can cause rust, mold, warping, cracking, and more. Prepping and storing your furniture properly is an investment in its longevity and ensures it’s ready for spring without needing major repairs or replacements.
How to Prep Patio Furniture for Winter Storage
Here are our tips for prepping your patio furniture for winter:
Clean Thoroughly Before Storing
Cleaning is the first step in prepping your furniture for storage. Dirt, debris, and moisture can lead to mildew, stains, and corrosion if left on your furniture during the winter. Here are some tips for cleaning your outdoor furniture based on its material:
Metal Furniture
Use a mild soap and water solution to clean metal frames. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can strip protective coatings that prevent rust. After cleaning, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Wood Furniture
Wooden furniture should be cleaned with a soft brush and a mild soap solution. Be careful not to use too much water, as moisture can warp wood. If your furniture is untreated, consider applying a protective sealant or oil to guard against moisture and cracking. Be sure the surfaces are thoroughly dried before storing.
Wicker Furniture
Use a vacuum or soft brush to remove dirt from the crevices. Wicker is susceptible to mold, so ensure it’s completely dry before storing. For deeper cleaning, wipe down wicker pieces with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Plastic Furniture
Plastic is generally low maintenance, but dirt and grime can accumulate over time. To avoid cracking in the cold, clean with a solution of warm water and dish soap, then rinse and dry completely.
Protect with Covers
Whether you’re storing your patio furniture indoors or outdoors, consider investing in high-quality outdoor furniture covers. These covers protect against dust, moisture, and snow and are designed to fit snugly over your furniture, keeping it dry and free from debris throughout the winter. Look for waterproof covers with ventilation flaps to reduce the likelihood of condensation and mildew.
Store Indoors When Possible
If you have space, storing your patio furniture in a garage, shed, or basement is the best way to protect it from winter damage. Indoor storage provides a controlled environment free from snow, moisture, and freezing temperatures. The Arrow Sheds Lexington Steel Shed is a great way to protect your patio furniture during winter while giving you a place to store other lawn and outdoor equipment.
Outdoor Storage Options
If storing furniture indoors isn’t feasible, outdoor storage can still be effective with the right precautions. Use high-quality furniture covers or tarps to keep your patio furniture from rusting or accumulating mold. Place furniture on wooden pallets or bricks to keep it off the cold, wet ground. This prevents moisture from seeping into the legs and causing rust or rot. Small outdoor storage cabinets, like the Suncast Stow-Away Horizontal Shed, are great for holding small items like outdoor pillows and cushions year-round.
Caring for Cushions and Fabrics
Speaking of cushions and pillows, these materials require extra care before winter storage. Here’s how to prep them for cold weather and storage:
Clean
Remove dirt, dust, and stains by washing cushions with a mild detergent. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for machine-washable items, or use a soft brush and soap for spot cleaning.
Dry Completely
Moisture trapped inside cushions can lead to mildew during storage. Make sure everything is thoroughly dry before packing.
Store Indoors
Like the rest of your patio furniture, cushions and fabrics are best stored indoors, in waterproof bins or bags. If you must store them outside, use a moisture-resistant storage box.
Maintenance for Spring Readiness
Proper winter storage doesn’t just protect your furniture during the cold months; it also makes spring setup much easier. Here are a few final tips to ensure your patio furniture is ready for use as soon as the weather warms up:
Inspect and Repair
Before storing your furniture, check for any damage, rust, or loose parts. Address these issues now to prevent them from worsening over the winter.
Oil Moving Parts
For pieces like patio umbrellas or rocking chairs, lubricate any moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation in the spring.
Touch Up Paint
If your metal or wooden furniture has chipped paint or finishes, consider touching it up before storage. This extra layer of protection will help further prevent rust and weather damage.
Prepping your patio furniture for winter storage is essential for preserving its longevity and ensuring it’s ready for use when warm weather returns. By cleaning thoroughly, using protective covers, and storing it properly, you can prevent damage from the harsh winter elements.
Shop Omni Outdoor Living Today!
For more patio furniture maintenance solutions, visit Omni Outdoor Living and explore their wide range of protective covers, storage sheds, and other outdoor furniture accessories to keep your outdoor setup looking its best year after year.
