Storing your furniture is the best way to protect your furniture in the winter, but there are other steps you can take to protect them, too.
Outdoor furniture and appliances are an investment, and if you want them to last, you need to take precautions to protect them from the elements. You can't have your outdoor furniture outside year-round if you live in an area that sees cold temperatures or harsh weather conditions seasonally.
Here's how care for your outdoor furniture
in the winter, presented by car insurance broker app Jerry
. Storing outdoor furniture in the Winter
Move your furniture inside
Attics, sheds, garages, and basements make great storage options, depending on how well-maintained they are. If you don't have access to these spaces, you can find ways to utilize your outdoor furniture pieces to spruce up your indoor set-up so you can still keep the furniture inside.
Consider public storage
Public storage is always a great option when you have any outdoor furniture or appliances that you want to keep but can no longer have in your home.
Many public storage facilities
have controlled temperatures and humidity levels, ensuring that your furniture will stay safe and sound while it's packed away. Make individual considerations for each piece of furniture
While it's certainly easier to just lump your furniture together and store it all in the same way, it may be in your best interest to assess your individual pieces of furniture and store them based on what method works best for their material.
MORE: Where to find affordable furniture for your home
How to protect outdoor furniture in the winter
We get it–you can't always move your furniture inside during the winter. Here are some tips for protecting your outdoor furniture instead of storing it.
Use a tarp, plastic wrap, or outdoor furniture covers
Adding a physical barrier between your furniture and the elements can help protect them in the winter.
However, be sure any tarps or furniture covers you use are waterproof and tied securely, because powerful wind, rain, and snow will certainly be able to move them, leaving your furniture without any protection.
Clean and maintain them
No matter which option you choose for storage, clean your outdoor furniture first.
Cushions and fabrics: Clean in the washing machine with laundry detergent and a splash of bleach, if the label allows, and then store in a dry area.
Plastic: Clean with water and detergent and store somewhere that will not drop to below freezing temperatures.
Metal: Clean with water and detergent while scrubbing thoroughly and then utilize anti-rust primer, car wax, or metal polish for a nice finish and then store inside or outside.
Wicker: Clean thoroughly with bleach and water using a toothbrush, let dry, repaint, and store off the ground in a dry place.
Wood: Clean with a mixture of water, detergent, and bleach and coat with water repellant before storing inside.
With the proper planning and preparation, storing and protecting your furniture during the winter weather shouldn't cause you too much stress.
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