Are you looking for ways to store your garden furniture during the off-season? Here are some tips and ideas on properly storing outdoor furniture to keep it in good condition.
Properly storing garden furniture is essential to ensure its longevity and appearance. Whether your furniture is made from wood, metal, plastic, or fabric, taking the proper steps to protect it from harsh weather conditions, dirt, and wear can save you time and money in the long run.
This guide on how to store garden furniture will provide you with practical tips and techniques to keep your garden furniture in great condition during the off-season so it’s ready to use when the warmer months return. Let’s get started!
What Are the Benefits of Properly Storing Garden Furniture?
Before we dive into the tips for storing your garden furniture, let’s take a quick look at some of the benefits that come with proper storage:
- Prolong Lifespan: Protecting your furniture from damaging weather conditions and wear can prolong its lifespan and save money on repairs or replacements.
- Saves Space: By storing your furniture correctly, you can free up space in your garden or patio for other activities.
- Maintains Appearance: Proper storage prevents discoloration, rusting, mold growth, and other damage that can affect the appearance of your furniture.
What Will You Need?
Before you start storing your garden furniture, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Cleaning Supplies: Depending on the material of your furniture, you may need to use specific cleaning products to remove dirt, stains, and debris.
- Protective Covers: Invest in good quality covers to protect your furniture from dust, moisture, and sunlight.
- Storage Containers: Sturdy plastic containers or bags are ideal for storing smaller items such as cushions and accessories.
- Oil or Varnish (for wooden furniture): Applying a protective coating can help preserve the natural beauty of wooden furniture.
Once you have all the necessary supplies, you can start preparing your furniture for storage.
8 Easy Steps on How to Store Garden Furniture
Step 1. Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly:
Start by properly cleaning your garden furniture to remove all dirt, grime, and debris that may have accumulated over time. Use appropriate cleaning supplies based on the material of the furniture. For instance, mild, soapy water works well for plastic and metal furniture, while specialized wood cleaners should be used for wooden pieces.
Ensure all surfaces, including cushions, are thoroughly cleaned. If your cushions have removable covers, wash them according to the care instructions provided. For stubborn stains or mildew, use a mixture of water and white vinegar as a natural cleaning solution. Allow everything to air dry completely before moving on to the next step, as any residual moisture can lead to mold or damage during storage.
Step 2. Inspect for Damage:
Before storing your garden furniture, scrutinize each piece for any signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or loose screws. Address any issues you find to prevent them from worsening during storage. For wooden furniture, look for splintering or warping, and consider sanding or applying a protective sealant if necessary. If you notice rust on metal furniture, remove it using sandpaper or a rust remover, and apply a touch-up paint or protective coating to prevent further corrosion. Tighten any loose screws or bolts to ensure everything is secure. This step will help preserve the quality of your furniture and ensure it’s ready for use when the season changes.
Step 3. Choose a Suitable Storage Location:
Select a storage location that will protect your garden furniture from harsh weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight. Ideal options include a garage, shed, or basement, but if indoor storage isn’t possible, consider investing in high-quality, waterproof furniture covers. Ensure the location is dry, well-ventilated, and pest-free to minimize the risk of damage. For stackable furniture, organize and stack items carefully to maximize space while preventing scratches or dents. Proper storage will extend the life of your furniture and keep it in great condition for future use.
Step 4. Regular Maintenance During Storage:
Even while your garden furniture is in storage, routine inspections and maintenance can help ensure its longevity. Check periodically for any signs of moisture, mold, or pest activity, especially if the storage area is damp. Wipe down furniture surfaces as needed to keep them clean and dust-free. If any issues arise, address them promptly to avoid further damage. Staying proactive with maintenance will make preparing your furniture for the next season easier.
Step 5. Preparing Furniture for Use After Storage:
When the time comes to bring your garden furniture out of storage, a little preparation will ensure it’s ready for use. Begin by carefully unstacking and unpacking items, checking for any signs of damage or wear that may have occurred during storage. Clean each piece thoroughly with appropriate cleaning solutions for the material, removing any accumulated dust, dirt, or mold. Inspect hinges, bolts, or screws and tighten or replace them as needed to ensure stability. Finally, apply protective treatments, such as wood sealants or metal rust inhibitors, to keep your furniture in excellent condition throughout the season. With these steps, your garden furniture will be ready to enjoy again.
Step 6. Use Furniture Covers:
Investing in high-quality covers is one of the best ways to protect your garden furniture from harmful weather conditions. Choose covers made from waterproof and UV-resistant materials that are specifically designed for outdoor furniture. Ensure the covers fit snugly and allow for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. When covering larger items such as tables or chairs, consider using tie-down straps or clamps to keep the cover securely in place.
Step 7. Disassemble If Possible:
For furniture that can be disassembled, taking it apart before the off-season can significantly extend its lifespan. Start by carefully removing any detachable components such as cushions, legs, or tabletops, following the manufacturer’s instructions if available. Store screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled bags to avoid losing them and make reassembly easier.
By reducing the size of the furniture, it becomes easier to store it indoors or in a sheltered area, protecting it from prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions. Disassembling also prevents potential strain or warping of joints that might occur from wind pressure or uneven ground surfaces during storage. Taking the time to disassemble allows for more compact and protective solutions, ensuring your garden furniture remains in excellent condition year after year.
Step 8. Regularly Check on Stored Furniture:
Even after storing your garden furniture, performing regular checks throughout the off-season is essential. Inspect the storage area for signs of dampness, pests, or any other conditions that might damage the furniture. Ensure covers remain securely in place and make adjustments if they have shifted.
Checking periodically allows you to address any issues early, such as tightening loose screws, reapplying protective treatments, or relocating items to a safer spot if needed. This proactive maintenance minimizes potential damage and ensures your furniture is ready to use when the season changes.
By following these steps, you can adequately store your garden furniture and ensure it remains in excellent condition for many seasons.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Leaving Furniture Exposed to the Elements: Prolonged exposure to rain, snow, or direct sunlight can cause damage to your garden furniture. Metal pieces may rust, wood can warp, and fabrics may fade. Always store furniture in a sheltered area or use protective covers.
- Neglecting to Clean Before Storage: Dirt, mold, and mildew can accumulate over time if you store dirty furniture. Ensure thoroughly cleaning all pieces before putting them away to avoid long-term damage.
- Using Improper Storage Locations: Avoid damp or poorly ventilated areas like basements or outdoor sheds prone to moisture. These conditions can lead to deterioration, particularly for wooden or fabric furniture.
- Skipping Regular Maintenance: Storing your furniture without checking for repairs or necessary maintenance can lead to more significant issues. Tighten loose screws, repair cracks, and treat the materials with protective coatings if needed.
- Stacking Improperly: Stacking heavy furniture carelessly can cause cracks, scratches, or deformation. Use care when arranging your storage space, and ensure that lighter or more delicate items are appropriately supported to prevent damage.
What Type of Protective Covers Should You Use?
When protecting your outdoor furniture, choosing the right type of cover is crucial. Here are a few options to consider:
- Waterproof Covers: These protect furniture from rain, snow, and other moisture. Look for materials like polyester or vinyl that can resist water.
- UV-Resistant Covers: If you live in a sunny area, UV-resistant covers can help prevent fading and damage from prolonged sun exposure.
- Breathable Covers: Fabrics like canvas or cotton allow air circulation while keeping out dirt and debris. These protect wooden or fabric furniture from mildew and mold growth.
- Custom-Made Covers: For irregularly shaped or oversized furniture, investing in custom-made covers that fit perfectly and provide the best protection may be best.
Remember to always check the dimensions of your furniture before purchasing a cover and make sure it fits snugly for maximum protection.
Conclusion
How to store garden furniture is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain its appearance.
Start by cleaning your furniture thoroughly to remove dirt, moisture, and other residues that could lead to damage over time. Once clean, dry the furniture altogether to avoid mold and rust. Use high-quality protective covers, like the ones mentioned above, to shield your furniture from the elements. Store your furniture in a shed, garage, or another sheltered area, especially during extreme weather conditions.
For smaller items, consider storing them indoors to minimize exposure. With these steps, your garden furniture will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
