How To Use Patio Furniture Covers and Expert Tips To Protect Outdoor Furniture
got it covered?
With proper care and protection, outdoor furniture can last (and look beautiful) for years to come. Whether you’re winterizing your patio or looking to protect outdoor furniture when it’s not in use, with a few basic practices, it’s easy to extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking and functioning like new throughout the seasons. Here are our expert-approved tips for protecting outdoor furniture like a pro:
The best way to protect outdoor furniture? Keep damage from happening in the first place.
Investing in protective covers for patio furniture and accessories prevents damage from the sun and the elements. Make sure to buy a furniture cover that’s specifically designed for the outdoors, and made from a durable, weather-resistant material. Only use covers on completely dry furniture to avoid trapping in moisture and avoid placing objects on top of furniture covers, which can cause mold or mildew.
Smaller items like outdoor pillows or fabric cushions can be stowed away when not in use. Outdoor storage chests are a great, multipurpose solution for keeping patio accessories safe and protected while also functioning as a piece of decor. Made from materials like polymer, outdoor wicker, and teak, these pieces are weather-resistant and extremely durable.
Pro tip: let them pull double duty as extra seating or tables.
Protect and refresh outdoor furniture to keep it looking good all year long.
Although outdoor furniture is low-maintenance, giving it a bit of TLC every now and then is a good idea. For materials like teak, all-weather wicker, or stainless steel, invest in a good protectant that slows the weathering process and applies about 1-2 times a year. You’ll also want to clean your furniture with a good-quality cleaner made specifically for outdoor furniture.
To keep outdoor upholstery looking fresh, treat it with a stain protector, which repels water and moisture and helps prevent food and drink stains. You can also periodically clean outdoor cushions and pillows with an outdoor upholstery cleaner to remove dirt or mildew.
When looking to protect outdoor furniture, small steps have a lasting impact. With the right love and care, patio season can look good and feel fresh all year long.