Tired of chasing soggy cushions across the garden after a storm? The short answer: store garden furniture clean, dry, covered, and sheltered. Simple enough, but each material has its own quirks. Stick around for practical tricks (and a few insider tips) to keep your patio looking sharp season after season.
If you’ve ever found your rattan chair frozen solid or a metal bench speckled with rust, you’ll know the damage winter can do. Frost can split wooden frames, rain brings rust, and gusty winds send lightweight tables skidding across the patio. Knowing how to store outdoor furniture for winter means fewer headaches and fewer replacements.
Garden furniture is an investment, not a throwaway purchase. Treat it well, and it rewards you with years of barbecues, family dinners, and lazy afternoons in the sun. Proper storage can add years to its life, making it more than worth the small effort when cold weather hits.
Different furniture materials demand different approaches:
Wood: Wash with mild soapy water and a soft brush, then finish with a protective sealant.
Metal: Scrub off any rust with a wire brush, wipe down, and apply a rust-prevention spray.
Rattan/Wicker: Use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove dirt, then wipe with warm soapy water.
Plastic: A quick clean with household detergent is usually enough.
This step often gets rushed, but it’s the most important. Even a trace of moisture left on your furniture can cause mould, mildew, or corrosion. Always air-dry completely before storage. Think of it like packing away a wet coat, you’ll only regret it later.
Never leave cushions or parasols outside all winter. They’ll soak up dampness and smell musty by spring. Instead, store them indoors in breathable bags or containers so they stay fresh and ready to use.
If your set can be folded or taken apart, do it. Stack chairs vertically, detach table legs, and keep pieces grouped together. The smaller the footprint, the easier it is to store safely without damage.
Loose arms, foldable hinges, or wobbly parts can easily bend or break in storage. Use zip ties or bungee cords to hold everything firmly in place. It’s a small job now that saves big repairs later.
When people ask where to store outdoor furniture, the best answer is indoors. Garages, sheds, and basements protect against rain, frost, and storms. Just make sure the space is dry, ventilated, and not prone to damp or leaks.
Give your storage area a quick tidy before moving anything in. Sweep the floor, check for leaks, and lay down pallets or mats to lift furniture slightly off the ground. Add moisture absorbers or dehumidifier packs, and block off any small gaps where mice might wander in.
No garage or shed? No problem. Push your garden furniture pieces together in one cluster to keep them stable. This makes it easier to cover and prevents wind from tossing lightweight chairs across the lawn.
A cover isn’t just a cover. Go for breathable, water-resistant, UV-protected fabrics with reinforced seams and tie-down straps. A snug, well-fitted garden furniture cover will prevent mould, condensation, and water pooling. Always measure your furniture before buying to get the right fit.
Leaving furniture sat on damp grass or concrete is asking for trouble. Use bricks, pallets, or risers to lift it slightly off the ground. This avoids water damage, staining, and mould underneath.
Always bring cushions inside. Store them in breathable containers or fabric bags, plastic bags trap moisture and cause mildew. A loft, cupboard, or even under-bed storage works perfectly for long-term protection.
Not ideal. Damp sheds encourage mould, rust, and wood rot. If it’s your only option, improve airflow with vents, use moisture absorbers, and elevate furniture off the floor.
Yes. Sheds aren’t always fully weatherproof. Garden furniture covers act like a winter coat, adding an extra layer of defence against dust, pests, and dampness.
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