subject: Storing Outdoor Furniture For The Winter [print this page] Climate and nature's elements can make it necessary to store outdoor furniture for the winter months. It's often a chore done at the last minute just before the first winter storm arrives. Much modern outdoor furniture will withstand harsh weather and doesn't need to be put away, but much does need extra protection. With a small amount of effort through cleaning and preparing, the storage of furniture need not be a difficult chore.
Many homeowners are opting to spend more for outdoor furniture so it becomes more important to protect one's investment. As a season comes to a close, a series of small tasks spread out over time make the winterizing process much easier. Just a few hours now and again will make the next season so much easier to get started.
All fabric cushions and umbrellas should be checked for dampness. It is very important that they be totally dry before going into storage. Unless they are dry, mildew can form under plastic coverings or in a damp garage or basement. Scrubbing off mildew on a beautiful spring day is not fun work.
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.
Mold can be common on outdoor cushions, and you certainly don't want to store them that way. A solution of ten parts water to one part bleach will do the trick. If the mold still won't come out, increase the amount of bleach slightly and try scrubbing it again. Use the same technique on umbrellas. Be sure to leave any item out to dry thoroughly 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.
Most cast and wrought iron can be left out during winter months, but its fantastic durability doesn't mean that it shouldn't be checked for needed maintenance. Any rust should be sanded off and repainted as soon as possible. Rust does spread and you want to check its progress before too much work is required.
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.
Getting ready for winter isn't fun, but with proper storage, it's more fun when spring days do reappear. It's better to enjoy the leaves appearing than scrubbing last year's mess.
