Save Moving Blankets After You're Done For A Clever Outdoor Purpose

Finding the perfect patio set can create a fun addition for your home's comfort and style, but keeping it looking pristine is a constant battle against the elements. From the relentless summer sun that can fade and weather your patio set to unexpected hail and rainstorms that can further damage it, outdoor furniture is constantly under siege. While many homeowners reach for flimsy plastic tarps that can tear easily, there is a far more durable solution likely sitting in your garage right now: moving blankets.

Even though they're a reliable helper while you're moving, these blankets usually get set aside and forgotten for years once the moving truck is unpacked. There are multiple ways you can repurpose moving blankets around the house, but this is our favorite. These blankets are designed to absorb impacts, making them a great heavy-duty barrier between the weather and your beloved patio set. Unlike thin covers, the quilted padding of a moving blanket provides a literal cushion against the physical damage from falling branches or hail, while the dense fabric blocks the harsh light of UV rays that cause issues like cracking and peeling in the finishes of furniture.

To begin this DIY patio protection project, you'll need your leftover moving blankets and something to wrap and secure them with; anything like bungee cords, rope, moving bands or straps, or even heavy-duty twine works. Before you get started with wrapping, though, make sure your furniture is clean and completely dry in order to prevent trapping any moisture against the surface. Then, drape the blankets over each piece of furniture you want protected and make sure the fabric reaches all the way down to the base.

Some moving blankets have good breathability, depending on what they are made of; they're most commonly composed of materials like polyester and cotton, though some are also comprised of recycled material. Those are great for padding and blocking light, but be sure to throw a tarp on top of this setup for rainy and snowy weather to help protect your patio furniture over a long winter.

By repurposing your old moving blankets like this, you'll save money by skipping specialized patio furniture covers that can sometimes be pricey. What's more, you'll even make your home more sustainable (and keep things out of landfills, which is appreciated). Instead of just letting these blankets sit there and gather dust for years, you're giving them a second life as the ultimate bodyguard for your favorite patio pieces.