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How to Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter
Lifestyle
As autumn leaves fall and frosty mornings set in, many of us pack away the garden for another year. Taking a moment to learn how to store outdoor furniture for winter will keep your garden pieces clean, dry and protected, ready for those first sunny days when you want to make the most of your outdoor space again. The good news is that it doesn’t take much time or effort, just a few simple steps to clean, cover, and store your pieces properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why winter storage matters, how to prepare your furniture, common mistakes to avoid, and the best ways to protect different materials so they last for years to come.
Why Should You Store Outdoor Furniture in Winter?
The colder months bring more than just frosty mornings. Rain, damp air, and icy conditions can cause real problems for outdoor furniture. Wood can swell, metal can mark, and fabric cushions can soak up moisture. Even aluminium furniture, which is known for being low maintenance, benefits from being kept clean and dry through the winter.
Our managing director Steve Bromberg, explains, “Most people only think about protecting their garden furniture once damage has already been done. Taking a bit of time in autumn to clean and store pieces properly makes a huge difference. It’s about treating your furniture as part of your home rather than just something you use in summer.”
How To Prepare Garden Furniture for Storage
Start with a clean slate. Brush off leaves, wipe down tables and chairs, and wash cushion covers according to their care instructions. Drying everything completely is key, as even a little trapped moisture can turn into mould by spring.
When it comes to storing garden cushions, it’s worth investing in proper garden furniture cushion storage. Waterproof storage boxes or bags are an excellent choice, and they keep cushions safe if you plan to store garden cushions in a garage or shed. If your furniture has built-in compartments, use them, but check they’re fully dry inside before packing anything away.
Common Mistakes When Storing Outdoor Furniture
It’s easy to cut corners, but these missteps often cause the most damage:
- Leaving cushions outside: even the best fabric struggles in damp, so always store garden cushions separately.
- Using plastic sheets: they trap condensation, which encourages mould and rust. Choose breathable covers instead.
- Skipping the cleaning step: dirt, bird droppings and fallen leaves left on furniture can leave permanent marks.
- Forgetting ventilation: sealing furniture in an airtight space may stop rain, but it can also cause mustiness.
A few simple changes in how you store outdoor furniture for winter can make all the difference come spring.
How to Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, as it depends on your space, but here are some tried-and-tested options:
- Use a shed, garage, or outhouse
Moving furniture inside offers the best protection. If you don’t have much space, prioritise smaller items and cushions. - Covers for protection
Heavy-duty covers keep furniture safe outdoors. Look for breathable designs that prevent condensation, rather than cheaper plastic sheets that trap damp.
- Under a pergola or veranda
If you have a pergola or veranda, it’s a natural shelter. A bioclimatic pergola with adjustable louvres allows you to close the roof during wet weather while still letting air circulate. - Carports for bigger sets
Carports aren’t just for cars. They can easily cover a large dining set or lounge area, keeping it dry and protected without needing to move everything.
Whichever option you choose, think about airflow. Outdoor furniture fares best in spaces that are sheltered yet ventilated, so it doesn’t become musty over time.
Materials and Their Winter Care Needs
Different materials need slightly different care:
- Wood: clean with mild soap and water, let it dry, and if possible, apply a protective oil or sealant once a year.
- Rattan: natural rattan is best stored indoors, but synthetic versions can usually be covered outdoors. Always clean gently before storage.
- Aluminium: wipe down frames and cover them. Aluminium won’t rust, but dirt build-up can still dull the finish.
- Fabric: always store cushions inside waterproof storage or breathable bags, and never leave them exposed.
Knowing your furniture’s material helps you choose the best method to protect furniture during winter.
Long-Term Care for Outdoor Furniture
Winter storage is only part of the story. A little maintenance throughout the year makes a significant difference:
- Re-apply protective oils or sealants on wooden furniture each spring.
- Wipe aluminium frames every few weeks during summer to prevent dirt stains.
- Rotate and wash garden cushions regularly to prevent fading and keep them fresh.
- Invest in garden furniture with storage if space is tight, as it makes year-round care far easier.
By treating outdoor furniture as an investment, you can enjoy it for many more seasons.
Why You Should Invest in Quality Garden Furniture
Choosing quality garden furniture is one of the best ways to make sure your outdoor space stays comfortable and durable, whatever the Great British weather has in store. Hardwearing materials such as aluminium, teak, and synthetic wicker are designed to last, making them smart choices for year-round use.
For larger gardens, a generous dining table or deep-seated sofa set makes entertaining family and friends easy, while in smaller spaces, compact pieces that double up on use are a great solution.
At our Leeds showroom, you can explore Garden Trading’s range of furniture crafted from natural materials. Known for its resilience and comfort, this exclusive collection offers timeless options that handle the changing seasons with ease while adding a refined edge to your outdoor living.
FAQs
What’s the best way to store garden cushions?
Use waterproof storage boxes or breathable bags. Make sure cushions are fully dry before packing them away.
Can aluminium furniture stay outside all winter?
It’s very durable, but covering it will help keep it looking new for longer.
Will a pergola protect furniture over winter?
Yes, particularly if it’s a bioclimatic pergola with adjustable louvres that close to keep rain off while allowing ventilation.
Knowing how to store outdoor furniture for winter means less stress and fewer surprises when spring arrives. Clean it, dry it, protect it, and give your garden cushions a proper home for the colder months. With a little care now, you’ll be ready to enjoy your outdoor furniture as soon as the warmer days return.
If you’d like to go a step further, consider the benefits of a bioclimatic pergola. At Exterior Spaces, our aluminium pergolas, carports, and verandas are built for the British climate, providing protection all year while adding structure and comfort to your garden.
If you’re close to Leeds, our showroom is just minutes from the M62 and M621. Here you can explore premium pergolas and verandas in person, and speak to our team about how the right furniture and structures can help you enjoy your garden throughout every season.
