The Best Time To Bring Patio Furniture In For The Winter So It Doesn't Get Damaged

Outdoor furniture is a saving grace for those long evenings spent on the back patio in the summer. But when winter comes knocking, that same furniture can take a real beating. From snow and ice to freezing temperatures, cold weather can cause structural and cosmetic issues to items left in its path. To avoid unnecessary damage, bring outdoor furniture indoors before nighttime temperatures drop below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) and before any consistent rain or snow patterns develop in your area. Depending on where you live, this typically occurs between early and late fall.

Specific materials can also clue you in on when and how to store patio furniture properly. Unsealed wood furniture, for example, is affected by freezing temperatures and moisture, which can lead to mold, rot, and cracks. Metal furniture can rust or corrode when exposed to snow and ice, and fabric on outdoor furniture can develop mildew. It can also be damaged from freeze-thaw cycles. Two materials that may better withstand the elements are synthetic wicker and teak wood, but items made from these materials can still be covered or taken in as a precaution.

If you have enough space in a garage, shed, or basement to store your outdoor furniture, it's a good idea to do so. Just make sure to clean and dry it first — especially if you're housing it in your basement. (You don't want to accidentally bring in spider webs or other creepy crawlies.) The best way to clean and prepare outdoor furniture for winter storage depends on the material, but using a mild soap and a soft scrub brush or rag will usually do the trick. Cleaning will remove pollen and other dirt build-up so that your furniture doesn't stain over winter.

Lacking indoor space? No problem. At the bare minimum, you'll want to bag up any outdoor cushions, place them in a breathable bag, and take them inside. Alternatively, you can use a vertical storage container as a smart storage solution that keeps outdoor pillows clean and dry from the elements. Outdoor furniture covers can go over the pieces you're leaving outside, and if you have a covered porch or patio, you can place your outdoor furniture under it for added protection from the elements.