The warm weather has been one of (few!) highlights this year. Now as colder and wetter weather returns, you will need to store it correctly to be sure you can use it again next year.
Patio furniture collects all sorts of dirt, pollen and bugs so it is essential that everything is cleaned well before you pack it up correctly. As different materials require different attention, consider the following:
Wood Furniture
Wooden table and chairs look very stylish but can be susceptible to weather conditions. Before storing, wood should be washed with warm soapy water and left to completely dry. Apply a wood oil to preserve it during the winter months.
If you plan to store the furniture outside a good waterproof cover is essential. Always raise the furniture legs off the ground to protect it from damp too.
Ideally, however, wood furniture is best stored indoors, in a garage/shed or a storage facility.
Plastic Furniture
Plastic furniture is great because it requires little maintenance. It can also be quickly and easily spruced up with a jet wash next summer!
However, to prevent any cracks or weather damage appearing, we still recommend wrapping up your plastic furniture and elevating it from the ground to avoid frost issues.
Metal Furniture
Metal makes for sleek looking patio furniture, but it needs to be well-looked after to avoid any rust.
Clean the frames with warm soapy water, hose down and dry. Check for any existing areas that have rusted and be sure to treat it before you store. It is also a good idea to finish with a wax which will help to preserve the furniture for longer.
Metal furniture should also be covered with tarpaulin and stored in a garage or shed to avoid rust damage during the winter. If you don’t have the space, then a self-storage unit is ideal. Everything will be kept clean, dry and well protected.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker easily hides dirt and debris which can rot furniture over time, so make sure you give your wicker set a thorough sweep (a toothbrush is a great idea to get into the cracks!). Wipe everything down with warm soapy water and air dry as quickly as possible.
Cover wicker furniture in plastic wrap and ideally store indoors as this material has a tendency to soak up water and rot.
Outdoor Fabrics
Outdoor cushions are, by default, durable and resistant to most weather conditions! They should, however, still be cleaned and stored well to make sure they are ready for action next summer.
Removable fabrics should be machine washed, others can be vacuumed and wiped with a damp cloth. It is important everything is completely dry before wrapping up and placing in storage.
If you have run out of spare storage space at home, then a self-storage unit is the answer. Shurgard Self-Storage have cost-efficient storage units which will keep your patio furniture clean, dry and secure ready for next summer.
Leave a Reply