Outdoor wooden furniture works hard all summer, but autumn weather quickly takes its toll.
Rain, frost, and dampness can leave wood cracked or stained by spring. With the right winter care, your tables and chairs will stay in top shape for years.
1. Give it a proper clean
Before storing your furniture, it is well worth giving it a proper clean. Think about all the dust, pollen, bird mess, and damp leaves that have gathered over the months. If left to sit all winter, they can easily mark the wood.
A soft brush is perfect for removing loose dirt, and a bit of warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth are usually all you need for the surface.
Just be careful not to soak the wood, as too much water can get trapped in the grain. For any stubborn marks, a dedicated outdoor wood cleaner is always your safest bet.
2. Make sure it’s completely dry
Wooden furniture needs to be completely dry before it is packed away or covered up. If moisture gets trapped inside the wood or under a cover, it can lead to mould and swelling.
Pick a dry day to pack things away, and pay extra attention to corners, joints, and the undersides of tables where water lingers.
3. Tackle small repairs now
Winter has a way of making small problems a little bit worse. A tiny crack can expand in the frost, a loose screw can put uneven pressure on the frame, and rough patches love to collect moisture.
So take a few minutes to tighten loose screws, smooth down rough edges, and treat minor cracks before storage.
4. Treat the wood if needed
Some types of wooden garden furniture benefit from a quick treatment before the cold sets in. Hardwoods like teak, acacia, and eucalyptus can dry out after a long, sunny summer, so applying a suitable outdoor furniture oil will help feed and protect the wood.
If you have painted or varnished furniture, a tiny touch-up on any chipped areas will work wonders.
5. Store cushions separately
Fabric cushions and seat pads should never be left on your wooden furniture over the winter. They easily trap dampness against the wood and can quickly develop mould or unpleasant odours.
Once they are clean and fully dry, store them separately in breathable bags or clean boxes where they’ll stay warm and dry.
6. Use breathable covers
While covers protect against dirt, wood still needs to breathe. Fully sealed plastic traps condensation, creating the perfect environment for rot. Opt for a breathable furniture cover instead.
Wooden furniture stores best in a dry, sheltered place. Sheds and garages work well, but they often fill up fast during the colder months. If you want to protect your furniture without losing space at home, check out how furniture storage at Shurgard works.
How do you usually store your garden furniture when the weather turns?
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