How to Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter (and Make It Last Longer)

How to Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter (and Make It Last Longer)

Winter weather can be brutal on outdoor furniture. Moisture, freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause cracking, rust, mold, and warping—damage that can shorten your furniture's lifespan significantly . Properly storing and protecting your pieces during the off-season is one of the best ways to protect your investment and keep your outdoor space looking great for years to come .

This guide walks you through the essential steps to store your outdoor furniture for winter and extend its life.

Step 1: Clean Thoroughly Before Storing

Before you even think about covering or moving your furniture, give it a deep clean. Dirt, pollen, and grime left on furniture can lead to stains, mold, and even pest problems over the winter .

General cleaning tips:

  • Metal frames: Use warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent rust .

  • Plastic and resin frames: Clean with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface .

  • Wood furniture: Use a soft brush and a wood-safe cleaner. Avoid pressure washers, as the intense pressure can damage the surface .

  • Wicker/Rattan: Vacuum crevices with a brush attachment, then wipe down with a slightly damp cloth. For synthetic wicker, a mild soap solution works well .

  • Cushions and fabrics: Spot-clean stains and wash removable covers according to care instructions .

The most important rule: Dry everything completely before storing. Even a small amount of trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and rot .

Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Method

Option A: Store Indoors (Best Protection)

If you have space, storing furniture indoors in a garage, shed, basement, or storage unit offers the best protection . This keeps it out of the elements entirely and prevents temperature-related damage .

Option B: Use High-Quality Outdoor Covers (If Must Stay Outside)

If you cannot bring furniture inside, invest in high-quality, durable covers that are:

  • Waterproof and UV-resistant

  • Breathable, to prevent condensation and mold buildup 

  • Secured with straps or buckles to stay put in strong winds 

  • Sloped design to allow snow, ice, and water to slide off easily 

Important: Never use plastic tarps as a permanent solution. They trap moisture and can cause more damage than leaving furniture uncovered .

Step 3: Store Cushions and Fabrics Indoors Separately

Never leave cushions outside all winter, even if the furniture has a cover. Fabrics can become brittle in freezing temperatures and are prone to mold and mildew when exposed to moisture .

Best practices for cushion storage:

  • Store indoors in a closet, basement, or garage 

  • Use breathable storage bags or bins 

  • Ensure cushions are 100% dry before storing 

  • Consider vacuum-sealing to save space only if cushions are completely dry 

  • Place silica gel packets in storage bins to absorb moisture 

Step 4: Protect Furniture from Winter Conditions

Even with covers, follow these best practices:

  • Elevate furniture off the ground using bricks, wooden pallets, or risers to prevent moisture absorption and freezing to the ground .

  • Store lightweight items indoors—especially plastic or resin furniture that can become brittle in freezing temperatures .

  • Check on stored furniture periodically to ensure covers haven't blown off or accumulated water/snow weight that can cause damage .

Step 5: Material-Specific Winter Care

Wood (Teak, Acacia, Cedar):

  • Apply a protective sealant or wood oil in the fall to prevent cracking and warping .

  • If leaving outside, ensure it is dry before covering .

Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron):

  • Clean and dry thoroughly to prevent rust .

  • For aluminum: Can typically stay outside year-round if properly covered .

  • For steel and iron: Store indoors if possible, as they are more susceptible to rust .

Wicker/Rattan:

  • Natural wicker should be stored indoors—it absorbs moisture and can rot .

  • Synthetic wicker (PE rattan) is more durable and can stay outdoors with a proper cover .

Plastic/Resin:

  • Cold temperatures can cause cracking and brittleness. Store indoors if possible .

  • HDPE furniture is an exception—it resists cracking even in harsh winters .

HDPE Furniture:

  • Can safely remain outdoors all winter, as it resists moisture, temperature swings, and UV rays without degrading .

Cushions and Fabrics:

  • Always store indoors .

  • Clean and dry completely before storing to prevent mold and mildew .

Step 6: Avoid Common Mistakes



Mistake Why It Causes Damage
Using plastic tarps as covers Traps moisture, causes rust and mold 
Storing damp furniture Leads to mold, mildew, and rot 
Leaving cushions outside Fabric becomes brittle and grows mold 
Not elevating furniture Moisture from ground seeps into frame 
Ignoring rust spots Small scratches become corrosion 
Skipping annual cleaning Dirt and pollen trap moisture and cause damage 

Step 7: Spring Preparation

When winter ends and temperatures rise, take these steps:

  • Remove covers and inspect for any damage 

  • Perform a light cleaning to freshen everything up 

  • Touch up paint on rust spots 

  • Replace cushion inserts if needed 

Conclusion

Taking the time to properly winterize your outdoor furniture protects your investment and extends its lifespan significantly . By cleaning thoroughly, drying completely, using quality covers, and storing cushions indoors, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements when spring arrives . Even with the best care, some furniture materials are better suited for year-round outdoor use than others, so knowing what you own and what it needs is key to keeping it in great condition season after season.

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