With fall coming to a close, it’s time to officially say goodbye to patio season. Plenty of memories were made on the patio throughout spring, summer, and fall, but with winter comes cold, wet weather that may be less suitable for outdoor lounging depending on where you happen to live.
In order to enjoy your outdoor patio furniture again in the spring, and for years to come, it needs to be properly taken care of and protected from the elements. Here are a few ways to protect your patio furniture in extreme winter weather.
Clean it
Before outdoor patio furniture can be stored away for the winter, it needs to be cleaned. Several months worth of dirt, debris, and other outdoor elements can leave lasting damage like mold or mildew if not taken care of.
Start by wiping down the outdoor patio furniture with soap and water. This simple cleaning method should do the trick in most cases as most aluminum furniture is rust-resistant. However, you may occasionally find a small rusted spot or two. If this is the case, then use a rust cleaner to wipe away any marks or damage. You can also apply a sealant to ensure an extra layer of protection.
For cushions and textiles, a quick wipe down may be all that’s needed. But if the cushions need a deeper cleaning, then remove the cushion covers and wash them according to the label’s instructions. Just remember to let the fabric dry completely before storing it away to avoid mildew.
Store it
If you have space to store your outdoor patio furniture away for the winter, then now is the time to do it. Make sure that the storage area is a dry location to avoid any chances of mold or mildew. It’s also a good idea to cover the furniture with a tarp, a sheet, or plastic to keep it protected from any dust or debris that can accumulate while in storage.
Cover it
For patio furniture that won’t be stored away or protected underneath an awning, it needs to be covered. Consider investing in water-repellant, UV-resistant covers to make sure that each piece is protected from the winter weather elements. It’s also a good idea to get covers that come equipped with strong ties so you can safely secure them to the furniture without fear of them slipping off.
Secure it
If your outdoor patio furniture is protected underneath an awning, or you live in an area that experiences very mild winters, then you may not even need to cover or store it. To be sure that it’s capable of handling any unpredictable winter weather, however, it may be a good idea to secure it to the patio. Use rope to tie down the furniture and prevent it from being blown away by strong winds. If nothing else, this will at least give you peace of mind.
