The wonderful thing about patio furniture is that it provides us with a comfortable space to spend outdoors. From being curled up and relaxing with a captivating book, to hosting BBQs or enjoying gatherings with family and friends; we put our patio furniture to good use. It is safe to say we rely on our outdoor furniture for many occasions, and we should, therefore, take certain precautions to ensure it lasts for many years throughout the different seasons and elements.

In order to avoid the appearance of rust marks, mildew, or stains, consider outdoor furniture protection and changing weather conditions. Even if the patio furniture was meant to survive the harshest weather, things like moisture, UV rays, snow, and ice can start to bring signs of aging. While many of today’s outdoor fabrics and materials are built to battle the elements, a little TLC for your furnishings can go a long way toward making them last and always look good as new!

Even the toughest weaves on durable cushions and slings can still let in moisture-causing mildew or dirt. An easy solution to cleaning the cushions is to start by dusting off the fabric followed by using a sponge or soft bristle brush and applying a mild and water-diluted detergent. Let the cushions air dry and voila, your pillows and cushions should be looking perfect! This strategy also works well if there are tough stains that need treatment. Avoid using any harsh chemicals which could potentially damage the fabric. Stick to the milder cleaning solutions to get the job done! Quick tip for those canvas cushions… save time by removing them and tossing them in the washer!

Most outdoor furniture protective covers are weather resistant and are treated to help protect from UV rays as an added bonus. A general rule to follow for outdoor furniture care is to keep cushions stored away during rainy days or winter seasons. This alone will help give your cushions a healthy and long-lasting lifespan. Prior to purchasing any outdoor furniture protective covers, ensure that you measure the dimensions of your furniture – you want the covers to fit nicely and snugly!

Teak wood is an impressive type of wood that has many benefits including insect-repelling natural oils and its durable nature. If treated properly, it will last for many years to come, no matter what our harsh climate throws its way. If not treated properly, it is likely to take on a silver-grey color after about six months of being exposed to sunlight. It is also essential to give it a good scrub once a year to combat any dirt or mildew, which is easily done by using a bristle brush with mild detergent and water.

It is important to keep teak patio furniture out of damp or shady areas to avoid rot and to always be mindful when moving teak indoors at the end of the season; bringing the furniture in from your yard and into a heated space may cause the wood to split. A solution for this is to bring in your furniture when the temperature starts to fall or change the temperature of your storage space. Also, to ensure proper teak care, ensure to always allow ample time for the moisture levels to balance.

Here are some additional tricks we have hiding under the covers (pun intended), to help with outdoor furniture care:

Store It
Keep your patio furniture looking fresh by storing it during the cooler months if not in use. Either in an outdoor storage box, a shed, a garage, or in the basement if there is room! Either way, ensure to cover all outdoor patio furniture with a tarp or sheet of plastic and put a few wood blocks on top of the table to let the air circulate. Make sure to anchor the tarp to avoid it from blowing away.

Most people don’t always realize that where they place their patio furniture is also very important to minimize weather impact! If you have your pieces located on the edges of your patio, obviously the sun and rain will have easier access to it. When a storm is coming, or on a particularly hot and sunny day, move your patio furniture toward the center of your patio or into a shaded space to guard it against the harsh elements.

At the end of the day, you will want to get maximum use from your patio furniture. If you follow these simple tips to maintain it, there is no reason why you should have to replace it anytime soon. You'll extend the lifespan by years with just a few minutes of work. Enjoy!