As winter approaches, the transition from outdoor living to cozy indoor spaces begins and preparing
for winter outdoor furniture storage becomes essential. That’s why the experts at Lurvey have created this helpful guide, delving into the art of winterizing your outdoor haven with essential tips and techniques for storing outdoor furniture. From safeguarding against harsh weather elements to preserving the longevity of your cherished pieces, we’ll explore practical solutions and strategic approaches to ensure your outdoor furniture emerges unscathed and ready for a vibrant spring revival.

How to Prepare Your Outdoor Furniture for Winter Storage

Preparing your outdoor furniture for winter storage is vital to ensuring its longevity and keeping it in top condition for the next outdoor season. To help keep your outdoor furniture looking its best for the next season, we’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to get your outdoor furniture ready for winter.

1. Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly – Start by cleaning your outdoor furniture. Remove any dirt, debris, or stains using a mild soap or detergent and water. For specific materials like wood or metal, use cleaners suitable for those surfaces.
2. Apply Protective Coatings – Depending on the material of your furniture, apply appropriate protective coatings. For wood, consider adding a layer of sealant or protective oil. Metal furniture can benefit from a rust-resistant spray or wax coating.
3. Remove Cushions and Fabrics – Take off cushions, pillows, and any fabric components. Clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and store them indoors in a cool, dry place. This prevents mold and mildew growth and maintains the integrity of the fabric.
4. Store in a Sheltered Area – Whenever possible, store your furniture in a sheltered area, such as a garage or a shed. If indoor storage is not feasible, use weatherproof furniture covers to protect against the elements. Ensure the covers are secure to prevent wind from lifting them.

Tips for Properly Wrapping and Covering Your Outdoor Furniture

If you’ve taken all the necessary steps for storing your furniture, but you neglected to properly wrap and
cover it, then unfortunately, you have skipped an extremely important part of preparation. Ensuring that your outdoor furniture is properly covered is necessary to prevent mold, dust, and critters from getting in and affecting the overall quality.

Here are a few tips for properly wrapping and covering your outdoor furniture!

Choose High-Quality Covers

Invest in high-quality, weather-resistant covers specifically designed for outdoor furniture. Look for covers made from durable materials such as polyester with PVC backing or waterproof fabric.

Ensure the covers are UV-resistant to prevent fading and have features like vents to allow air circulation,
preventing mold and mildew growth. The right cover provides a protective barrier against rain, snow, and harsh sunlight.

Secure Covers Properly

Properly securing the covers is essential to their effectiveness. Use straps, ties, or drawstrings to secure the covers snugly around the furniture. This prevents wind from getting underneath and lifting the covers, exposing your furniture to the elements.

For larger pieces, consider using bungee cords or custom-fit covers with built-in fastening mechanisms.
Additionally, check the covers periodically throughout the winter to ensure they remain secure.

Elevate and Ventilate

Elevate furniture off the ground before covering it. This prevents moisture from being trapped between the cover and the furniture, reducing the risk of mold and rust. Use furniture risers or place blocks under
the legs to achieve proper elevation.

Final Checks Before Locking Up for Winter

Now that you’ve done all the necessary pre-checks before storing your furniture, the last and final step is final checks. These two steps are vital in ensuring that you haven’t missed anything before storing your favorite furniture items away for 6+ months.

Inspect for Repairs

Take this opportunity to inspect your outdoor furniture for any repairs or maintenance needs. Tighten
loose screws, replace missing bolts, and address any structural issues. This ensures that your furniture is
ready for use when spring arrives.

Label and Organize

If you’re storing multiple pieces, label them or create an inventory to make the retrieval process easier in the spring. This helps you keep track of all components and ensures a smoother setup when it’s time to bring them out again.

How to Prevent Mold and Mildew During Storage

Preventing mold and mildew on outdoor furniture during storage is crucial, especially when faced with
damp winter conditions. Here are several tips to help you keep your furniture mold and mildew-free:

• Ensure Furniture is Completely Dry: Moisture is the primary catalyst for mold and mildew growth. Make sure your outdoor furniture is completely dry before storing it. If possible, choose a sunny, dry day to clean and air-dry your furniture before storage.
• Use Breathable Covers: Opt for covers made from breathable materials. Breathable covers allow air circulation, preventing the build-up of moisture. Avoid using plastic or non-breathable materials that can trap condensation and create an environment conducive to mold growth.
• Elevate Furniture Off the Ground: Elevate furniture off the ground to prevent contact with damp surfaces. Use furniture risers, blocks, or other supports to lift the furniture slightly. This minimizes the risk of moisture wicking up from the ground and helps maintain a dry environment around the furniture.
• Store in a Dry, Well-Ventilated Area: Choose a storage location that is dry and well-ventilated. Avoid damp basements or areas prone to leaks. Adequate ventilation prevents the accumulation of humidity, reducing the likelihood of mold and mildew growth.

Start Creating Your Outdoor Oasis at Lurvey Today

Ready to transform your outdoor space into a lush oasis? As the premier destination for landscaping and
outdoor living solutions, Lurvey’s provides everything you need to create a haven of natural beauty right in your backyard!

From an exquisite selection of plants and trees to stylish outdoor furniture and expert advice, Lurvey is your partner in crafting an outdoor retreat tailored to your vision. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning to explore the world of outdoor living, shop the high-quality, timeless outdoor living space products at Lurvey today!