You probably put a lot of thought into the purchase of your patio furniture. After all, your outside space is a continuation of your indoor living area and is a visual focal point. You took a lot of care choosing the best style, colors, and comfort features of your outdoor furniture. You may have also been surprised to learn that the cost of outdoor furniture is comparable to that of indoor pieces. But it was all worth it, right? Your family enjoyed every moment spent relaxing in the beautiful and functional environment you created. Now that winter is approaching, you will want to protect and care for your backyard investment so that you can appreciate it for years to come. Read on to learn some tips for storing your patio furniture when it is not in use.
Clean It Before Storing
During the summer season, your outdoor furniture naturally becomes grimy from dust, pollen, suntan oil, and other substances. If you take the time to clean your pieces thoroughly before storing, when you bring it out next spring it will be ready for you to use immediately.Â- Metal and plastic resin furniture: Wipe down with a solution of water and liquid detergent, rinse well, and allow to dry thoroughly.
- Wicker furniture: Clean with a brush, rinse, allow to dry.
- Teak and cedar: Wash with a bleach and water solution and allow to dry. In addition, every few years you may need to sand your pieces lightly, then apply a light coating of tung oil.
- Patio umbrellas: Wash fabric using a brush and a mild detergent solution. Allow to dry in the open position. Store in the closed position when dry.
- Cushions: If the cushion covers are removable, take them off and launder them. If not removable, you can use a brush to clean the cushions with a mild detergent solution. Allow to completely dry outside in the fresh air.
Store It Inside
Most outdoor furniture is created with durability in mind. It is meant to stand up to the hot sun and fluctuations in weather. That being said, if you want your outdoor furniture investment to pay off in the long run, you will need to store it out of the elements during the winter months. The following items should definitely be brought indoors and stored in a garage, storage shed, or basement:- Cushions, upholstery, umbrellas, outdoor rugs.
- Steel or wrought iron furniture
- Wicker or rattan pieces
