Outdoor furniture is an investment in comfort, style, and outdoor enjoyment. However, when the seasons change or the weather turns, proper storage becomes essential to keep your furniture in top condition. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes when storing outdoor furniture, leading to premature wear and tear, fading, and even damage.
To help you preserve your outdoor pieces, here are the top eight mistakes you’re likely making and how to avoid them.
Ignoring the Need for Cleaning Before Storage
One of the most common mistakes people make is storing their outdoor furniture without cleaning it first. Over time, outdoor furniture collects dirt, grime, pollen, and even food or drink spills. These residues can lead to discoloration, staining, and mold growth if left on for long periods.
Cleaning your furniture before storing it removes all dirt and debris that could cause damage. For example, dirt left on cushions can break down fabric fibers over time, while food spills can attract pests such as ants and rodents. By thoroughly cleaning your furniture, you not only keep it looking fresh but also extend its lifespan.
Failing to Store Furniture in a Suitable Location
The location where you store your outdoor furniture is just as important as how you store it. A common mistake is placing furniture in areas that are too damp, too hot, or exposed to fluctuating temperatures. These conditions can contribute to long-term damage.
Storing your furniture in a damp, dark, or humid area can encourage mold and mildew growth. Extreme heat can cause materials like plastic and wood to warp or crack. Conversely, extreme cold can cause metal frames to rust or degrade fabric.
Storing Furniture While Still Wet
Storing your outdoor furniture while it’s still damp is another mistake that can cause significant damage. Many people simply leave cushions or chairs outside during a rainstorm and, once the rain stops, store them without drying them off.
When furniture, especially cushions or wood pieces, is stored while wet, moisture can get trapped, leading to mold, mildew, and even rust on metal frames. Mold spores thrive in damp environments, and your cushions or wood can begin to deteriorate, leaving you with expensive replacements.
Not Elevating Furniture Off the Ground
A big mistake when storing outdoor furniture is leaving it directly on the ground. Whether it’s cushions, wooden chairs, or tables, leaving furniture flat on the floor can expose it to moisture, dirt, and even pests.
Moisture from the ground can seep into the furniture, leading to rust on metal parts or rot on wood surfaces. By elevating the furniture off the ground, you allow air to circulate, which helps prevent dampness from settling in.
Neglecting to Protect Wooden Furniture
Wooden outdoor furniture requires extra attention when it comes to storage. Many people make the mistake of thinking that because their furniture is made from durable wood, it doesn’t need special care. In reality, wooden furniture is vulnerable to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures.
Wood can warp, crack, or even become a breeding ground for insects like termites if not properly stored. The natural oils in wood can also dry out, making the material brittle and faded.
Not Using Proper Covers for Protection
Covering your furniture is essential when storing it for the season, yet many people skip this step or use poor-quality covers that don’t offer adequate protection. Not using covers exposes your furniture to dust, dirt, and environmental elements like rain or snow, accelerating wear and tear.
High-quality covers protect your furniture from harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and debris that can cause fading, cracking, and rusting. Covers also prevent the buildup of grime that can be difficult to remove later.
Leaving Cushions Exposed to the Elements
Cushions are among the most delicate items in outdoor furniture. Leaving them exposed to rain, sun, or snow is a recipe for disaster. Many people make the mistake of simply leaving cushions on their outdoor chairs, thinking they’ll be fine, but this can result in sun fading, mildew, and wear.
Cushions absorb moisture easily, which can lead to mold and mildew growth, particularly if they’re left outside in the rain. Even if cushions are “weather-resistant,” long-term exposure to the elements can still accelerate their deterioration.
Not Inspecting Your Furniture Regularly
Lastly, many people make the mistake of failing to inspect their outdoor furniture before and after storage. It’s easy to forget about the condition of your furniture once it’s tucked away for the winter, but neglecting to check for damage can lead to problems when it’s time to bring it back out.
Regular inspections help identify minor issues before they become major problems. For instance, you may notice small tears in fabric, rust on metal frames, or loose screws, all of which can be easily repaired before they worsen.
Key Takeaway
Properly storing your outdoor furniture is essential to preserving its lifespan and keeping it looking great for years. Avoiding these eight common mistakes will help protect your investment, whether you’re storing cushions, wooden tables, or metal chairs. Remember to clean, dry, and store everything in a suitable location, protected as needed.
Regular inspection and maintenance are also crucial to keeping your outdoor furniture in top shape. By taking the time to store your furniture correctly, you’ll save money in the long run and enjoy your outdoor space to its fullest every season.
