How to Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture for Fall 

As the days get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to start thinking about cleaning and storing your outdoor furniture for fall and winter. Proper care will not only extend the life of your furniture but also ensure that it’s ready to use when spring arrives. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps for cleaning, maintaining, and storing different types of outdoor furniture, so they remain in top shape for years to come.

1. Cleaning Outdoor Furniture

Before storing your outdoor furniture for the season, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning. Dirt, pollen, and grime can cause damage over time, and storing unclean furniture can lead to mold or mildew.

Cleaning Wood Furniture

Wooden furniture, especially teak and cedar, is popular for its durability and natural beauty. However, it needs regular maintenance to keep it looking great.

• Dust and debris removal: Start by using a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose dirt and debris.
• Gentle wash: Mix mild soap with warm water and gently scrub the surface with a soft sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the wood’s finish.
• Rinse thoroughly: Use a garden hose to rinse off the soapy water, ensuring all residue is gone.
• Drying: Allow the furniture to dry completely before storing it. For teak furniture, consider applying a protective sealant to maintain its color and protect it from the elements.

Cleaning Metal Furniture

Aluminum, wrought iron, and steel furniture are tough but can corrode or rust without proper care.

• Wipe down surfaces: Use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to clean off dirt and grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the metal.
• Rust check: Inspect for rust spots, especially on steel and wrought iron furniture. If you find rust, sand it down lightly and touch up the area with rust-proof paint.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse the furniture thoroughly and let it dry completely before storage to prevent rust formation.

Cleaning Plastic and Resin Furniture

Plastic and resin furniture is relatively easy to maintain, but it can fade or become brittle if not properly cleaned.

• Scrub with soap: Use warm water mixed with mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the furniture.
• Rinse well: Use a garden hose to rinse off all soap.
• Avoid pressure washing: While it may be tempting, high-pressure washing can damage the surface of plastic furniture.

Cleaning Cushions and Fabrics

Outdoor cushions and pillows are made to withstand the elements but still require regular cleaning.

• Remove and wash covers: If your cushions have removable covers, wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Spot cleaning: For non-removable cushions, spot clean them with mild detergent and water, using a sponge or cloth.
• Air dry: Ensure all fabric and cushions are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold and mildew.

2. Storing Outdoor Furniture

Once your furniture is clean, the next step is to store it properly to protect it from harsh winter conditions. Even weather-resistant furniture can suffer damage from freezing temperatures, snow, or prolonged exposure to moisture.

Wood Furniture Storage

Wooden furniture, particularly untreated wood, is prone to cracking and warping if left exposed to extreme cold and moisture.

• Store indoors if possible: The best option is to store wooden furniture in a dry, covered area like a garage, shed, or basement.
• Use furniture covers: If indoor storage isn’t an option, invest in high-quality, weatherproof furniture covers. Ensure the covers are breathable to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and rot.
• Elevate the furniture: If you’re storing furniture outdoors, place it on blocks or pallets to keep it off the damp ground.

Metal Furniture Storage

Metal furniture can withstand winter weather better than other materials, but it’s still important to protect it from moisture and rust.

• Store under a roof: If you can, store metal furniture in a garage or shed. If that’s not possible, cover it with weatherproof furniture covers.
• Prevent rusting: Apply a coat of car wax or a rust-resistant coating to help protect metal surfaces before storing.

Plastic and Resin Furniture Storage

Plastic and resin furniture are durable, but they can crack or fade in extreme cold or prolonged sun exposure.

• Store indoors: If space allows, store plastic furniture indoors to avoid brittleness and cracking from freezing temperatures.
• Cover if stored outdoors: Use breathable furniture covers if storing outside. Avoid tightly sealed covers that can trap moisture and cause mold.

Cushions and Fabrics Storage

To keep your outdoor cushions and fabrics fresh, proper storage is key.

• Store cushions indoors: Always store cushions in a dry, ventilated area. A storage bench, a closet, or even under a bed are good options.
• Use airtight bags: For added protection, consider storing cushions in airtight plastic bags or containers to prevent moisture and dust accumulation.
• Avoid stacking: Avoid stacking cushions if they aren’t completely dry, as this can lead to mildew growth.

3. Additional Maintenance Tips

In addition to cleaning and storing your outdoor furniture, consider these extra maintenance steps to ensure your furniture lasts for years:

• Inspect for damage: Check for any loose screws, cracks, or weakened joints. Tighten or repair them as needed before storing the furniture.
• Protect glass tabletops: For outdoor furniture with glass surfaces, store the glass separately to prevent it from cracking due to temperature changes. Use cardboard or fabric padding between glass pieces.
• Keep covers secure: Ensure that any covers you use are properly secured to prevent them from blowing off during windy winter days.

Conclusion

Taking the time to properly clean and store your outdoor furniture before fall sets in will save you from costly repairs and replacements. By following these steps, you can ensure that your furniture remains in great condition and ready for use when warmer weather returns. So, grab your cleaning supplies, take a few hours to care for your outdoor space, and look forward to enjoying your furniture for many seasons to come!