subject: How To Store Outdoor Furniture Over The Winter [print this page] For the home owner who lives in a climate with a distinct winter season, storing outdoor furniture is often a last minute, hasty chore. There are certain types of materials that do fine in ice and snow but many others have to be protected during off months. Just a little bit of cleaning and preparing will help furniture to last longer and come out looking better in the spring.
As consumers spend more and more on better outdoor furniture, it becomes more important to do a good job in putting it away. Toward the end of the season, it becomes easier to do the tasks in small increments rather than spending several days of hard work. A few hours here and there add up to better looking spring furniture.
One of the first things to do is to check all umbrellas and seat cushions for any dampness or mildew. It is imperative they be very dry and clean before storing for the winter or the problems will only worsen over time. Mildew is notorious for growing inside plastic storage covers especially if a garage or basement has any dampness during the winter months.
Simple molded plastic chairs and tables love a thin coat of wax for the winter. Just do a simple, easy scrub down and then spray with car wax. The application has never been easier. Not only will the pieces stack together without sticking but they will be more protected and spring cleaning will be far easier.
Check any and all furniture for mold. It can be very common on undersides and especially on cushions. A mild solution of water and bleach will do the job and won't harm fabrics or other materials. If the mold is stubborn increase the solution's strength. This also works on umbrellas and you might want to try spraying the solution on them. Make certain all items are thoroughly dry before storing.
Even wood furniture collects its share of grime and stains so wash them down in a soapy solution before covering in plastic for storage. Months of sitting will only make the clean up more difficult in the spring. It's also wise to assess any paint chipping or cracking as this is where moisture can creep in and do damage. Make restoration plans during the winter months if space is available or put it on the calendar for spring.
Cast iron furniture can withstand the elements and is usually left outdoors over the winter. Its durability doesn't mean that no maintenance is needed. Check the pieces for any rust and be prepared to sand it off and repaint. Left outdoors for rain and snow, the rust will only increase and be a larger job in the spring.
Do check cleaning products to ensure they are proper for various pieces of outdoor furniture. For instance, using a proper vinyl cleaner doesn't leave the residue that regular kitchen products will. Stick to the use of wood cleaner that used on decks for wooden furniture, and for aluminum pieces, stay away from ammonia based window cleaners or other products that contain alkaline. You'll be stripping off the protective sealant they usually come with.
Putting things away and preparing for winter isn't the most pleasurable of tasks. Saying good-bye to warm, sunny days is difficult but there's next season to look forward to. Preparing for it ahead of time means you can start to enjoy warmer weather right away without hours of tough work.
