Outdoor furniture enhances the enjoyment of your patio or deck during warm seasons, but proper storage and winterization are crucial for maintaining its quality. To help you protect your outdoor furniture, here’s a step-by-step guide based on expert advice.
Why Winterize Outdoor Furniture?
Winterizing your outdoor furniture is essential to extend its lifespan, save time on spring maintenance, and preserve its aesthetic appeal. Properly winterized furniture can often stay outside during cold months, eliminating the need to find indoor storage space.
Steps for Winterizing Outdoor Furniture
- Clean Furniture Before Storage
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your outdoor furniture. Terry Lin, a co-founder of Outer, recommends using warm water mixed with a mild detergent. For stubborn stains, you may add a small amount of bleach. Use a soft brush to gently scrub the furniture’s frame. This method works for most materials, including teak, plastic, and metal. Avoid power washing to prevent surface damage.
For fabrics, opt for removable cushion covers. These can be easily washed, keeping the cushion inserts intact during storage. Cleaning cushions at least once per season is advisable.
- Choose an Appropriate Storage Location
Deciding where to store your outdoor furniture is crucial. While indoor spaces like garages are common, they might still expose furniture to cold temperatures.
If storing outdoors, choose high-quality furniture covers with the following features:
- Waterproof, fade-resistant, and durable fabric.
- Sloped angles to allow snow and leaves to slide off.
- Buckles and straps for a snug fit, preventing dirt and moisture seepage.
- Waterproof zippers for ease of use.
- Dry vents to prevent moisture buildup and mildew formation.
For cushions or throw pillows, consider storing them indoors. If space is limited or you’re concerned about moisture and pests, vacuum sealing them after ensuring they are clean and dry is a good option.
- Address Any Damage in Spring
Inspect your furniture in spring for any damage. For teak furniture, use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner to restore color, followed by teak oil to prevent cracking. For aluminum, simply rinse with a garden hose. Wrought iron furniture with rust can be treated with a brush to remove rust, and repeat the cleaning process used pre-storage.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your outdoor furniture remains in top condition, ready to be enjoyed again as warmer weather returns.
