How to Winter-Proof Your Patio Furniture in 7 Easy Steps
How to Winter-Proof Your Patio Furniture in 7 Easy Steps
As the weather cools down and fall gives way to winter, it’s time to think about how to protect your patio furniture from the elements. Taking the time to properly store and care for your outdoor furniture during the colder months will help ensure it stays in great shape, ready for use when spring returns. Here's a simple guide to help you put your patio furniture away for the fall and winter.
1. Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly
Before putting your furniture away, start with a deep cleaning. Dirt, grime, and moisture left on your furniture can cause damage over time, especially when exposed to freezing temperatures. Here’s a quick cleaning guide based on material:
• Aluminum Furniture: Wipe down metal pieces with soapy water, then rinse and dry them thoroughly
• Resin Wicker: These materials can be fragile, so use a soft cloth or brush and mild detergent. Vacuum with the brush attachment as needed.
• Cushions and Fabrics: Check the tags on your outdoor cushions to see if they’re machine washable. If not, use a fabric-safe cleaner and ensure they are fully dry before storing to avoid mildew.
The 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner is a versatile, pH-neutral, and water-based solution designed for safe, effective cleaning on all fabrics and surfaces. Fragrance-free and free of solvents or dyes, it’s perfect for daily use and tough enough to tackle grease, stains, and spots. Recommended by Sunbrella, this cleaner is safe for synthetic, natural, and delicate fabrics, leaving them brighter and refreshed without harsh chemicals, caustics, or acids.
2. Invest in High-Quality Furniture Covers
If you don’t have indoor storage space, the next best thing is to invest in durable, weather-resistant covers. This is one of the most effective ways to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements. Furniture covers act as a barrier, shielding your patio pieces from rain, snow, dust, bird droppings, and UV rays.
Here are some tips for using furniture covers:
• Measure your patio furniture accurately to ensure the covers fit.
• Choose covers made from durable, water and UV-resistant materials.
• Secure the covers properly to prevent them from blowing away in windy conditions.
• Remove any cushions or fabric components before covering the furniture separately.
• Make sure that your furniture is completely dry before covering to avoid condensation.
• Never cover furniture like firepit tables is the furniture is too hot.
3. Stack and Store Properly
Once cleaned, stack or fold your furniture as compactly as possible to save space and keep it organized. If you’re storing furniture in a shed or garage, place items on pallets or wooden blocks to keep them off the cold floor. For those without indoor storage, placing your covered furniture in a corner of your patio where it will be least exposed to the wind and elements is a smart move.
4. Remove and Store Cushions Separately
Always store outdoor cushions separately from the furniture. While most cushions are designed to be weather-resistant, they will last much longer if kept in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Place them in breathable bags or containers, and if you can, store them in your basement or attic.
5. Take Care of Your Patio Umbrella
Don't forget about your patio umbrella! Clean it with mild soap and water, then leave it open until it's completely dry. If you have a cover designed specifically for umbrellas, use it. Otherwise, wrap the umbrella in plastic or a tarp to protect it during the off-season. Store the umbrella in a dry area where it won’t be crushed or bent.
6. Inspect for Repairs
Before putting your furniture away, take the opportunity to inspect it for any damage. Fall is a great time to fix anything that might be broken—whether it’s tightening screws on metal frames or replacing missing feet on your chairs or table. This way, your furniture will be ready to use as soon as warm weather returns.
7. Don’t Forget About Smaller Items
Planters, lanterns, rugs, and other patio accessories also need to be cleaned and stored. Remove batteries from outdoor lanterns and lights to prevent corrosion, and store outdoor rugs in a dry, cool place to avoid mold and fading.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to extend the life of your patio furniture and keep it looking as good as new year after year. Preparing your outdoor pieces for fall and winter doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take some attention to detail. With a little time and effort, your patio will be ready to go when spring rolls around, and you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space without any extra hassle.
