As the vibrant colours of autumn fade and the first chills of winter set in, it’s time to prepare our outdoor spaces for the colder months ahead. Your garden furniture, the silent host of summer BBQs and lazy afternoons, needs protection from frost, dampness, and strong winds.
Proper winter storage isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about preserving the lifespan and beauty of your investment, ensuring your pieces look fantastic when spring arrives.
Your Essential Winter Furniture Checklist
Follow these steps to successfully safeguard your garden furniture from the elements:
1. Clean Thoroughly
Before putting anything into storage, a deep clean is crucial. Dirt, pollen, and mildew can cause damage and staining if left to fester over the winter.
- Wood: Use a mild soap and water solution, scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Rinse well and allow to fully air-dry for several days to prevent rot or mold. Consider applying a protective oil or sealant (like teak oil) before storage.
- Metal (Wrought Iron/Aluminum): Wash and rinse. Check for any chips or scratches in the paint where rust could start. Touch up these areas with outdoor-friendly, rust-inhibiting paint.
- Plastic/Resin: A simple wash with warm, soapy water is usually enough.
2. Dry Completely
This step cannot be overstated. Any trapped moisture is a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and corrosion. Ensure every piece, especially cushions and padding, is bone-dry before moving to storage.
3. Tackle Cushions and Fabric
Cushions and textile components are the most vulnerable to moisture damage and pests.
- Wash or spot-clean all covers according to the care label.
- Store indoors. Cushions must be kept in a dry, well-ventilated space (like an airing cupboard, loft, or closet) to prevent them from becoming musty.
4. Disassembly and Organisation
Where possible, disassemble larger items like tables and chairs. This makes them easier to store, reduces the surface area exposed to potential damage, and helps prevent stress on joints. Keep all screws and small parts labeled in a plastic bag attached to the corresponding piece.
5. Choose the Right Storage Location
The ideal storage location is dry, cool, and protected from temperature extremes and pests.
- Best Options: Garage, garden shed, or a basement.
- If Outdoor Storage is Necessary: Use high-quality, breathable, waterproof furniture covers. Avoid plastic sheeting or non-breathable materials, as they trap condensation, which leads to mold. Elevate furniture slightly off the ground (using blocks or pallets) to allow airflow underneath.
6. Stack and Protect
Stacking chairs can save space, but be careful not to scratch surfaces. Place soft material (like old towels or felt pads) between stacked items. If you have glass tabletop inserts, remove and store them vertically or wrap them securely.
The Beauty of Rattan
If you’re considering new garden furniture that offers exceptional longevity and style, look no further than modern synthetic rattan.
This material is specifically engineered for outdoor use and is naturally UV-resistant, fade-resistant, and significantly more durable against winter weather than natural fibers. While it still benefits from a quick wash and a protective cover, high-quality rattan furniture often requires far less fuss and worry, letting you spend less time prepping and more time dreaming of next summer’s sunshine.
Enjoy the luxurious look of wicker without the maintenance headaches. Skyline Design provide a wide range of luxury rattan furniture to suit your garden.
By taking a few preventative steps now, you can confidently tuck your garden furniture in for the winter, knowing it will be ready to greet you in perfect condition when those glorious warmer days return!
