Outdoor furniture requires special care and maintenance to withstand the elements while retaining its beauty and function. Properly storing outdoor furniture is key to protecting your investment and extending its lifespan. Follow these tips to safely store your outdoor furniture during the off-season or when not in use.
Clean Thoroughly Before Storing
Before storing, thoroughly clean the outdoor furniture to remove dirt, debris, pollen, and mold. Use a hose to rinse away surface dirt. For a deeper clean, use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth or brush. Allow the furniture to air dry completely before storing.
Check for Damage
Inspect each furniture piece carefully looking for any damage or wear. Touch up paint chips, sand rough areas, and replace loose screws and hardware. Addressing damage right away keeps it from worsening over time.
Protect Surfaces
Apply protective covers or UV resistant sprays to help guard against sun damage and prevent fading. Wax wood furniture to lock in moisture. Purchase poly furniture covers or use breathable materials like cotton sheets to allow ventilation and prevent mildew buildup.
Disassemble When Possible
Take apart furniture components when you can without the need for tools. This allows for easier cleaning, saves space, and prevents strain on joints over time. Label pieces for easy reassembly later.
Store Indoors When Possible
The ideal storage place is indoors, in a garage, basement, or shed. Indoor storage protects furniture from temperature extremes, moisture, and UV rays. Place indoors on pallets or blocks to prevent moisture damage from concrete floors.
Use Outdoor Storage Strategically
When indoor storage is not an option, strategically place furniture together to best withstand the elements. Place near a fence or wall to block wind. Elevate off the ground and cover securely with waterproof, breathable covers. Ensure water drains away from the storage location.
Cushion Care
Remove cushions and cushions covers from furniture frames before storing. Wash cushion covers if removable. Store cushions upright on shelves in a dry location. Consider using breathable garbage bags over cushion foam to prevent mildew if covers cannot be washed.
Avoid Direct Contact with Concrete
Do not allow furniture to sit directly on concrete during storage as moisture can damage finishes and lead to mold growth. Place on wooden pallets or blocks to allow air circulation beneath. Waterproof tarps can also create a moisture barrier between furniture and concrete.
Prepare for Next Season
Assess furniture at the end of each season to determine if repairs or deep cleaning are needed before using again. Any issues found at the beginning of a season are easier to remedy than later once furniture is set up and being used again. Addressing problems at storage time makes furniture ready to go for the next year.
Storing outdoor furniture with care and maintenance in mind will help safeguard your investment. Follow these tips each season to keep your outdoor furniture looking its best and extending its lifespan. With proper storage your outdoor furniture will last for many years of enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Storing Outdoor Furniture
How to store outdoor furniture?
The best way to store outdoor furniture is to clean it thoroughly, disassemble pieces if possible, and find an indoor location like a garage or shed. If indoor storage isn’t possible, place furniture together in a strategic outdoor location protected from wind and elevated off the ground.
What is the best way to protect outdoor furniture when not in use?
Using furniture covers, applying UV protective sprays, and washing/waxing pieces helps protect outdoor furniture when it’s not being used. Removing cushions and cushion covers for separate cleaning and storage will also extend their lifespan.
How do I prepare my outdoor furniture for winter storage?
Inspect for damage, clean thoroughly, disassemble if possible, and find an indoor storage location. If storing outdoors, place furniture together in a protected area and elevate off concrete. Ensure water will drain away from the storage location.
What can damage outdoor furniture in storage?
Exposure to weather extremes like moisture, excessive sun, heat, and cold can damage furniture in storage. Mildew, mold, and pests are also concerns. Keeping furniture clean, dry, and pest-free helps avoid these issues.
Should outdoor furniture cushions be stored differently than frames?
Yes, cushions and cushions covers should be removed from frames and stored separately, if possible indoors. If covers are removable, launder before storage. Place cushion foam vertically on shelves or cover with a breathable material like a garbage bag.
How often should I clean my outdoor furniture before storing for winter or long-term?
Outdoor furniture should be thoroughly cleaned at the end of each season before storing. This includes washing cushions covers, wiping down frames, and a deep clean if necessary. Addressing issues before storage keeps problems from worsening over time.
Conclusion
Storing outdoor furniture with care ensures it stays looking beautiful season after season. Take time at the end of each season to clean pieces thoroughly, make any needed repairs, and find suitable covered storage, whether indoors or outside. Pay particular attention to properly storing cushions. With proper maintenance and strategic storage, your outdoor furniture will last for many years to come.