Winter weather can be harsh on garden furniture and outdoor fixtures, from snow and ice to freezing temperatures and strong winds. Taking the right steps to protect these items during the colder months will help extend their lifespan and keep them looking great when spring arrives. Here’s how to properly care for and protect your garden furniture and fixtures from winter damage.
1. Clean and Dry Your Furniture
Before storing or covering your garden furniture, it’s essential to clean and dry it thoroughly to prevent moisture from causing damage over the winter.
- Clean Furniture: Use mild soap and water to clean chairs, tables, and cushions. For metal furniture, consider using a gentle metal cleaner to remove any rust or grime. Wooden furniture should be cleaned with a soft cloth to avoid scratching.
- Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure the furniture is completely dry. Moisture left behind can cause wood to swell or metal to rust, so dry each piece carefully before storing.
- Check for Damage: Inspect furniture for any cracks, tears, or weak spots. Repairing small damages before winter can prevent bigger problems down the line.
Starting with a clean, dry surface helps prevent mold, mildew, and rust during the cold months.
2. Store Furniture and Cushions Indoors
If possible, move your garden furniture and cushions into a shed, garage, or basement for the winter. This keeps them safe from the elements and extends their lifespan.
- Move Furniture: Metal and plastic furniture is often more durable, but it’s still best to store it in a dry place during winter. Wooden and wicker furniture are especially vulnerable to cold and moisture, so storing them indoors is a good idea.
- Cushions and Fabric Items: Cushions, pillows, and fabric seat covers should be stored in a dry, cool place. If you don’t have storage space indoors, consider using waterproof storage bins to keep them dry.
- Stack and Cover: If storage indoors isn’t an option, stack furniture neatly and cover it with weatherproof covers to protect it from snow and rain.
Proper storage prevents furniture from getting exposed to moisture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and material breakdown.
3. Use Protective Covers
For furniture that must remain outside, using protective covers is an effective way to shield it from the elements.
- Waterproof Covers: Invest in high-quality waterproof covers for your garden furniture. Look for covers specifically designed for outdoor furniture that are made from durable, breathable fabric to prevent mold build-up.
- Secure the Covers: Make sure the covers are securely fastened to prevent them from being blown away by winter winds. Consider using ties, Velcro straps, or weights to keep the covers in place.
- Cover Everything: Don’t forget to cover smaller items like lanterns, pots, and garden statues, which can also suffer from exposure to freezing temperatures and moisture.
Protective covers are essential for guarding furniture against snow, rain, and ice while preventing long-term damage.
4. Care for Wooden Furniture
Wooden furniture is especially susceptible to the harsh winter weather. Proper care can prevent it from cracking, splintering, or warping.
- Clean and Seal Wood: Before storing or covering wooden furniture, clean it with a wood-safe cleaner and apply a coat of protective sealant or furniture oil. This creates a barrier against moisture and reduces the risk of cracking or splintering.
- Store Indoors: If possible, store wooden furniture indoors during the winter months. If this isn’t feasible, cover it with a waterproof cover and elevate it off the ground to avoid direct contact with moisture.
- Check for Mold: Wooden furniture can be prone to mold in damp conditions. Check regularly for signs of mold or mildew and clean it off promptly with a mild solution of vinegar and water.
Taking steps to protect wooden furniture ensures it retains its appearance and functionality for many seasons to come.
5. Maintain Metal Furniture
Metal furniture can withstand cold temperatures but is vulnerable to rust and corrosion. Proper care will help preserve its appearance and longevity.
- Clean and Treat Metal: Clean metal furniture to remove dirt and grime. Use a rust inhibitor or metal polish to treat any exposed metal surfaces, preventing rust from forming.
- Store or Cover: If storing metal furniture indoors isn’t possible, cover it with a waterproof cover to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid storing metal furniture directly on the ground, as moisture can seep up from the earth.
- Touch-Up Paint: Inspect for chips or scratches in the paint, which can expose metal to rust. Touch up any damaged areas with outdoor paint or rust-resistant coating to provide added protection.
Taking these simple steps can help prevent corrosion and keep metal furniture looking fresh.
6. Protect Garden Fixtures and Statues
Garden fixtures, such as fountains, birdbaths, and statues, can be damaged by freezing temperatures and exposure to ice and snow.
- Drain Water Features: For fountains and birdbaths, empty them completely before the first frost. Water left inside can freeze and cause cracks in the material. Store any removable parts in a dry place.
- Cover Statues and Fixtures: Use protective covers for garden statues, birdbaths, or other fixtures that need protection from winter weather. If the statue is small enough, bring it inside during winter.
- Use Frost-Proof Materials: If you’re considering new garden fixtures, look for items made from frost-resistant materials, such as concrete, resin, or high-quality stone, which can withstand the cold better than more porous materials.
Proper care and maintenance of garden fixtures protect them from winter’s freeze and thaw cycles, preventing damage.
7. Prepare Outdoor Lighting for Winter
Outdoor lights can add a festive touch to your garden during winter months, but they require proper care to prevent damage.
- Turn Off and Store Lights: If you use outdoor lighting, such as string lights or garden lanterns, make sure to turn them off and store them indoors for the winter. This protects them from moisture damage.
- Use Weather-Resistant Fixtures: If you plan to leave outdoor lights in place, make sure they are rated for winter conditions. Look for lights with weatherproof ratings and high-quality wiring to avoid short circuits.
- Clean and Check Wiring: Clean light fixtures to remove dirt and debris and inspect all wiring for signs of wear. Any frayed wires or exposed connections should be replaced before the cold sets in.
Properly preparing your outdoor lighting ensures they remain functional and safe throughout the winter.
By taking the right steps to protect your garden furniture and fixtures, you can prevent costly damage and ensure they remain in great condition for years to come. From cleaning and sealing wood to covering furniture and maintaining outdoor lights, these proactive measures will keep your garden items safe from winter’s harsh elements. With a little effort now, you’ll be ready to enjoy your outdoor space as soon as the weather warms up again.
