As summer fades and the leaves start to turn, many homeowners ponder how to store patio furniture for the winter. Maybe you dream of a perfectly organized garage where everything has its place and the furniture can fit, as well. Maybe you don’t have any indoor space to store outdoor furniture making you wonder how to keep it protected from ice and snow. It can seem like a logistical puzzle, but figuring out how to store patio furniture for winter can be easy.
With some careful planning, a little cleaning, and a few smart storage strategies, you can easily protect your outdoor furniture from the winter elements. Trust me, come springtime, you’ll be so grateful you put in the effort to store everything properly. For the best in quality and service, trust our top-rated Bucks County pool companies to transform your backyard into a personal oasis.
Preparing Your Patio Furniture for Storage
Before you think of storage, take the time to give your furniture a thorough clean. According to Terry Lin, co-founder and chief design officer of Outer, a sustainable outdoor furniture company, giving your furniture a light clean at the end of each season is important. This will not only remove any dirt and grime that can build up and be more difficult to remove over time, but it’ll also help ensure your furniture is fresh and ready to go next spring.
Cleaning Your Patio Furniture
Furniture frames can be cleaned with a mix of mild soap and water and a soft sponge. Be sure to leave time for more intricate frames like wicker to dry. If you’ve had your furniture for a long time and the finish has started to dull, try a product like Rust-oleum Recolor to buff some life back into the frame.
Sling fabrics can also be hosed with water and gently scrubbed with mild soap and water. Cushions should be completely wet and cleaned with mild soap and water or a more appropriate stain treatment for common stains like moss, bird droppings, tree sap and spilled food or drink. To keep pests away from fabric cushions, store them in a sealed container inside and away from the elements.
Cleaning your outdoor furniture is also a good time to inspect for any missing pieces like protective leg inserts and table caps. These items can be replaced through the manufacturer or purchased from a hardware store.
When storing patio furniture, consider space-saving strategies like stacking chairs or using vertical space with furniture covers secured by bungee cords. Even indoors, heavy-duty, waterproof covers with air vents protect furniture from dust and moisture. For tight garage spaces, wall-mounted shelving or racks are great for storing folding chairs or smaller items like umbrellas. Ensure shelves are sturdy enough to hold the weight of your furniture. If these options don’t work, you can leave your furniture outside on your patio with a protective cover. Ensure the longevity of your pool with our professional Bucks pool service, offering everything from cleaning to repairs.
Storage Bins for Cushions and Accessories
Purchasing clear storage boxes with airtight lids or outdoor cushion storage bags is advised because it’s important to keep cushions dry and safe. Use clear bins to keep things neat and accessible, and don’t forget about smaller items like throw blankets and outdoor rugs. While standing shelves or ceiling garage storage makes the most of available space by keeping large objects off the ground and smaller accessories neatly arranged, adding plastic sheeting or old blankets to the garage floor provides further moisture protection.
Make sure your garage or basement is well-aired to keep mildew and bugs away. If moisture is a problem, install a fan or open the door on mild days. Before storing cushions, apply anti-mold spray, paying special attention to edges and seams. Seal vents and garage doors to keep pests out, and scatter mothballs or cedar blocks to keep animals from destroying your furniture.
Another option is to purchase an outdoor storage container that can hold cushions and other outdoor materials outside and away from the elements. Lots of storage containers can double as seating or a serving table for parties during the summer season.
As we head into colder months, figuring out how to store patio furniture can feel overwhelming, but it isn’t a complicated process. It involves cleaning your furniture well, utilizing proper storage techniques, and considering preventive measures against pests and mildew. Come spring, you’ll be grateful for your foresight and able to enjoy those warmer days with furniture that’s in tip-top shape.
So, put on your comfy clothes, grab a bucket and cleaning supplies, and make space for a season of comfy living. Complete your outdoor space with our stylish and durable deck furniture in Buckingham, PA, perfect for entertaining or relaxing.