As winter approaches, your outdoor furniture needs a little TLC to survive the cold months and come out looking as good as new in the spring. Snow, ice, rain, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on materials like wood, metal, plastic, and fabric. With proper cleaning, maintenance, and storage techniques, you can protect your investment and extend the life of your outdoor furniture. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare your patio pieces for long winter storage.
1. Clean Everything Thoroughly
Before storing, cleaning your furniture ensures no dirt, mold, or mildew lingers over the winter months.
- For wood furniture:
- Use a mild soap and water solution to gently clean the surface. Avoid pressure washing, as it can damage the wood.
- Allow the wood to dry completely before storage.
- For metal furniture:
- Wipe down with soapy water and a soft sponge to remove grime.
- Address any rust spots by scrubbing them gently with sandpaper or a wire brush, then apply touch-up paint or sealant.
- For plastic furniture:
- Use a mix of mild soap and water or a solution of white vinegar to wipe off stains.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads, which can scratch the plastic.
- For fabric cushions:
- Check care labels for washing instructions. Most cushion covers are machine washable.
- For mildew, scrub cushions with a solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water (test on a small area first).
- Let everything dry completely to prevent mold growth during storage.
- Pro Tip: Remove any spider webs or dust from cracks, joints, and under tabletops with a soft-bristle brush.
2. Apply Protective Coatings
Once your furniture is clean and dry, adding protective treatments ensures it’s ready to withstand winter conditions.
- For wood:
- Apply a weatherproof wood sealant or oil (like teak oil) to protect the surface from moisture and cracking.
- For metal:
- Use rust-resistant spray or wax to create a barrier against moisture and prevent rust formation.
- For plastic:
- Apply a layer of automotive wax to plastic furniture to protect it from cracking or fading due to cold temperatures.
- Pro Tip: Check all screws, bolts, and joints for tightness before applying protective coatings. Replace any rusted or damaged hardware.
3. Store Cushions and Fabric Indoors
Fabric components like cushions, umbrellas, and outdoor rugs should never be left outside all winter.
- What to do:
- Remove cushions and wipe them clean. Store them in a dry, temperature-controlled space like a garage, shed, or basement.
- Use storage bags, bins, or vacuum-sealed bags to keep cushions protected from moisture, pests, and dust.
- Roll up outdoor rugs and store them indoors after cleaning.
- Pro Tip: Use moisture-absorbing silica gel packets or cedar blocks in storage containers to keep fabrics dry and odor-free.
4. Stack and Disassemble Furniture
Make your furniture easier to store by stacking, folding, or disassembling it.
- What to do:
- Stack chairs and tables to maximize storage space. Use blankets or furniture pads between items to prevent scratches.
- Fold or collapse collapsible furniture like lounges or folding tables for easy storage.
- Disassemble pieces like umbrella stands or outdoor dining sets to store them compactly.
- Why it helps: Smaller, tightly packed furniture takes up less space and is easier to cover or move to a safe location.
5. Use Quality Furniture Covers
If storing furniture indoors isn’t an option, protective covers are your next best defense against the elements.
- What to look for:
- Durable, waterproof covers made of polyester or vinyl that can withstand snow and rain.
- Covers with vents to prevent moisture buildup and mildew.
- Covers that fit snugly and fasten securely to protect against wind.
- Pro Tip: Elevate furniture slightly off the ground using wooden planks or bricks to keep it away from moisture buildup.
6. Store Furniture in a Protected Area
Choosing the right location for winter storage is crucial to prevent weather-related damage.
- Where to store:
- Indoors: Garages, basements, or sheds are ideal for protecting furniture from snow, rain, and freezing temps.
- Outdoors: Place furniture on a covered patio or deck and use protective covers.
- Avoid storing furniture directly on bare ground, as moisture can seep in.
- Pro Tip: If storing furniture outside, ensure it’s in a shaded area to avoid sun damage on warmer winter days.
7. Protect Glass Tabletops
Glass tabletops are prone to cracks and shattering in freezing temperatures.
- What to do:
- Remove glass tabletops from frames and store them indoors, if possible.
- If leaving them outside, place foam padding or blankets between the glass and the furniture frame for insulation.
- Use a weatherproof cover that protects glass from frost and debris.
- Pro Tip: Label fragile pieces like glass so you know to handle them with extra care in the spring.
8. Take Care of Your Outdoor Grill
If you have a grill on your patio, winterize it to prevent damage.
- What to do:
- Clean grates and remove grease buildup to prevent rust.
- Disconnect the propane tank and store it safely outside.
- Cover the grill with a weatherproof, insulated cover to protect it from snow and ice.
- Why it matters: A clean, protected grill will be ready to fire up as soon as grilling season rolls back around.
9. Elevate and Protect Planters
Garden planters and pots can crack if water inside freezes and expands.
- What to do:
- Empty ceramic and clay pots and store them indoors to prevent cracking.
- Use weather-resistant materials like plastic or resin pots for plants you leave outside.
- Elevate planters on bricks or wooden boards to prevent freezing temperatures from reaching the bottom.
- Pro Tip: Cover remaining plants with burlap or frost blankets for added protection.
10. Do a Final Inspection
Before officially saying goodbye to your outdoor space for the winter, take a few final steps to ensure everything is prepped and secure.
- What to check:
- Look for any signs of rust, damage, or wear that need repair before storage.
- Secure all furniture, covers, and loose items to prevent wind damage.
- Sweep and clean the patio or deck to remove debris that could stain or damage surfaces over winter.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Outdoor Investment
Taking time to properly clean, protect, and store your outdoor furniture this winter will save you headaches—and money—in the spring. By following these steps, you’ll extend the life of your patio pieces, prevent costly repairs, and keep your yard looking fresh and ready for outdoor gatherings when warm weather returns. A little winter prep goes a long way!
