How to store Garden Furniture for Winter

The British Summer wasn’t the sunniest, warmest or brightest, and it’s certainly coming to end thick and fast! In just a few weeks, the long days will start to shorten to make way for those chilly Autumn evenings, which means it’s time to think about storing your garden furniture for the colder months. Proper care and storage during the Winter months can extend the life of your outdoor furniture, keeping it in prime condition for years to come. Whether you have one of our Pacific Lifestyle Corner Set, the  Bamboo Lounge Set, or one of our popular egg chairs, this guide will help you prepare your garden furniture for Winter and ensure it’s kept in good condition whilst not in use.

Why it’s important to store garden furniture in Winter?

Winter weather can be harsh on garden furniture, with moisture, cold temperatures, and frost causing damage like rust and mould. Protecting the furniture with the right storage, prevents these problems and saves you from having to replace furniture prematurely.

Utilising a cover

One of the best (and most effective) ways to shield your garden furniture is with a cover. A high-quality outdoor furniture cover will keep your garden furniture covered and shielded from rain, snow, and UV rays that can cause it to fade, rust or grow mould over time. There are a number of different types of outdoor furniture covers on the market, so finding one that fits the needs of your furniture should be simple to find. However, if you are after a cheaper alternative, you can also try using a tarp. Whilst this may not be as high quality, it certainly does the job to keep your furniture protected from the elements.

Choosing the right storage location

The best way to protect your garden furniture is by storing it indoors, such as in a shed, garage, or covered patio. But if indoor storage isn’t an option, as mentioned above, we recommend a weatherproof cover ensuring your furniture is shielded.

Storing cushions and soft furnishings

Cushions, seat pads, and soft furnishings need special care to prevent mould and mildew. Before storing, make sure all cushions and fabric materials are completely clean and dry. Moisture trapped inside can lead to mould growth. We recommend storing soft furnishings in a dry indoor location inside your home. If space is limited, use vacuum storage bags to compress them and keep moisture out. For added protection, place cushions in breathable bags or storage boxes with lids. Avoid using plastic bags as they can trap moisture.

Extra protection for different materials

Different furniture materials need varying degrees of protection. For wooden furniture, apply a layer of wood treatment or oil before storing. This will seal the wood and help it withstand temperature changes and moisture. For metal furniture, ensure you check for rust spots and apply a protective sealant. If any parts have become loose, tighten them up to avoid further damage. Finally, plastic furniture tends to be more durable against moisture but can become brittle in freezing temperatures. Storing it in a sheltered location can prevent cracking.

At Stove Supermarket, a lot of our outdoor furniture is made to be weather resistant using materials and finishes that protect it from the colder months. For example, the Pacific Lifestyle Barbados Corner Set, features a powder-coated aluminium frame, which ensures its high-quality and robustness. The season proof, fire retardant cushions are water repellent, allowing the water to run off the cushion. In the rare event that any moisture does penetrate the outer fabric there is a ventilation section in each cushion which allows it to disperse.

With the right care and storage, your garden furniture will remain in great shape for many Summers to come. By cleaning, covering, and storing it correctly, you’ll protect your garden pieces from the harsh winter and save yourself the hassle of replacing worn-out furniture. If you have any questions, or require further advice, our expert team would be happy to help. Contact us today.

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