How to Store Outdoor Furniture
Wintertime in certain parts of the country can be rough on your outdoor furniture.
Cold, wet weather can damage cushions and upholstery, create rust on metal components and cause cracking in wood and plastics.
Fortunately, some simple steps can help you preserve and protect your outdoor furniture for when the weather warms up and you want to spend some quality time outside again.
Are you ready to explore outdoor furniture options? Rate Outdoors has selected a range of styles and materials for you to choose from. Whether you need seating, dining or lounging options, we have them in materials like wood, acrylic and even lightweight concrete.
Start shopping for outdoor furniture today!
Set up a time to consult with a Rate Outdoors expert and learn how you can create a comfortable outdoor space.
The essential golden rule: Clean and dry everything first
Before you start to put things away, you'll want to be sure everything is clean and dry.
For metal and plastic frames, you can wipe down everything with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Use a wood-safe cleaning solution on most wood surfaces but be careful not to use too much pressure if you're going to rinse with water as it can damage or tear out wood grain.
You can spot-clean cushions and upholstery with warm water and dish soap, then let them dry completely before storage.
Why trapped moisture is your worst enemy during storage
Making sure your outdoor furniture is dry before you store it is a crucial step. Moisture can cause mold, mildew and rust. Wood furniture stored while it is still damp could rot and attract pests.
You might even consider a moisture-absorbing solution like DampRid to help keep your indoor furniture storage area dry during the winter months.
How to prepare different patio materials for storage
Once you clean your outdoor furniture and make sure it's dry, you'll want to decide where and how to store it.
Storing wood and teak furniture without causing cracks
Once wood and teak outdoor furniture is clean and dry, store it in a place that will stay dry and won't get too warm or too cold. Cover your furniture when you can, but avoid plastic because it can trap condensation. Wood subjected to condensation that then dries over and over can crack and split.
Protecting metal and aluminum frames from winter moisture
Metal outdoor furniture can be covered with heavy-duty weather-resistant materials, but you want to ensure it's not too snug. Trapped moisture can lead to rust and other corrosion, so ensure air flow allows covered pieces to dry and stay dry.
Safely tucking away resin wicker and plastic pieces
Plastic and resin outdoor furniture can become brittle and crack with prolonged exposure to inclement conditions. It's best to store it indoors if you can, such as in a garage or shed. If no indoor space is available, try to get it into an enclosed patio and keep it covered.
Tips for storing furniture when you do not have indoor space
Storing outdoor furniture without access to indoor space is a relatively simple process. Here are some steps to follow.
- Ensure your furniture is clean and dry.
- Stow cushions inside or in deck boxes to keep them clean and dry.
- Stack chairs as you can, then cover furniture pieces with heavy-duty vinyl covers.
- Arrange covered furniture so air can move between pieces and under covers to prevent condensation and mold.
Choosing the right storage method for your yard setup
If your yard has the space, a shed or a couple of deck boxes can be storage solutions for outdoor furniture. If you have an enclosed porch or a patio, you can move larger pieces inside or underneath and cover them there during the chilly months.
If your yard is tight and space doesn't allow storage options there, moving larger pieces into your garage could be a solution if you have the space to do so.
Whether you move outdoor furniture inside or leave it in place during the winter months, you'll want to cover it to keep it clean, dry and ready for more outdoor activities when the weather warms up.
Explore Rate Outdoors furniture options
We all love to spend time outdoors when the weather is nice and friends stop by. But is your current outdoor furniture a little worse for wear or looking out of style?
Consider new seating options like an outdoor sofa, sectional or chaise lounges.
And where are you going to eat? How about dining tables, chairs, coffee tables and other accent pieces for your entertaining needs?
Rate Outdoors offers a carefully curated range of styles and materials. You can choose from wood, metal and even some lightweight concrete items, all designed for years of durability, fashion and function.
Are you ready to explore some outdoor furniture options? Shop now to see what will work for your outdoor space and needs!
