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How to Protect Outdoor Furniture in the Winter

As an outdoor furniture company based out of New England, how to protect patio furniture in winter is one of the most popular questions we get from our customers. While all of our products are designed to withstand harsh weather, it’s important to understand that even the highest quality materials require proper maintenance.

Winter weather can wreak havoc on patio furniture, causing damage and shortening its lifespan. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause wood to warp, metal to rust, and cushions to become moldy. Protecting your patio furniture during the winter months can help to ensure its longevity and keep it looking great for years to come. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to protect patio furniture in the winter. 

Outlined below are the most effective tips we recommend to keep your outdoor patio furniture looking fresh each year:

1. Invest in outdoor furniture covers for winter. The easiest way to protect your outdoor furniture all year long is by utilizing a high-quality outdoor cover. A proper cover will shield your furniture from water, dirt & UV rays while you're away on vacation, right before a big storm, and even throughout the winter months. 

*Pro-Tip: buy a cover with a mesh vent for breathability - this prevents moisture from building up and will keep out mold.

outdoor furniture covers for winter
2. Take extra good care of your cushions. We highly recommend storing cushions indoors during the off-season. Although outdoor fabrics and foam are built to resist the elements, the better you care for them the longer they will last. By sacrificing some space in your garage or basement you'll help your cushions stay soft and comfortable for years to come. Cushions can become moldy and mildewed during the winter if left outside. To protect them, remove them from the furniture and store them indoors in a dry area. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them to prevent mildew growth. If you don't have indoor storage space, you can also cover the cushions with a waterproof cover to protect them from moisture.
 

3. Clean your furniture before you store it. Before storing your patio furniture for the winter, it is important to clean and dry it thoroughly. We have a full guide on how to clean outdoor teak furniture and how. Any dirt, grime, or moisture left on the furniture can cause damage during storage. Use a gentle cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or stains from the furniture. After cleaning, let the furniture dry completely before storing it. Take 20 minutes to make sure your furniture is clean & dry before sending it into hibernation-mode and you'll thank yourself next spring. This will prevent any rust or mildew from forming while the furniture is not in use. It's also a great time to remove any stains from your cushions before they set in.

how to protect patio furniture in winter

4. Protect Teak Wood Furniture. Wood furniture is particularly vulnerable to damage during the winter months. Moisture can cause wood to warp, split, and rot. Here's how to protect patio furniture in Winter: it is important to seal it with a water-resistant finish before storing it. Apply a coat of teak oil, polyurethane, or varnish to protect the wood from moisture. For more instruction on how to seal teak outdoor furniture click here. You can also cover the furniture with a waterproof cover for added protection.

how to protect patio furniture in winter

5. Store Metal Furniture Indoors. Metal furniture can rust and corrode during the winter if left outside. To protect it, store it indoors in a dry area. If you don't have indoor storage space, you can cover the furniture with a waterproof cover. Before storing metal furniture, clean it thoroughly and apply a coat of rust-resistant spray or oil to prevent rust and corrosion.

Last but not least, make sure to use your furniture! Consistent use is one of the best ways to keep your outdoor furniture free of dust, dirt and unwanted pests. 

In conclusion, protecting patio furniture during the winter is essential to prolong its lifespan and keep it looking great. Cleaning and drying the furniture, covering or storing it indoors, protecting wood furniture, removing cushions, and storing metal furniture indoors are all effective ways to protect patio furniture during the winter. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your patio furniture remains in good condition and is ready to use when spring arrives.

We hope these tips help you extend the life of your furniture and enjoy your outdoor space a little bit more!

- Madbury Road

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