In winter, patio sets are best kept safely tucked away in storage. Depending on the type of patio furniture you own, there are different ways it should be stored to ensure it looks as good as new come spring. Here’s what you should know about storing the different types:
Wicker furniture With all its nooks and crannies, wicker furniture can get a little grungy after being outside for the summer. Before putting these items in storage, clean them well, first with a vacuum to remove any dust and dirt, then with a mixture of soap, water and white vinegar to get rid of mildew. Give it a final rinse, then wait until it’s completely dry before storing it under a furniture cover in a dry environment.
Plastic furniture The end of the season is the perfect time to give your plastic furniture a thorough wipe down. Use soap and water to remove any dirt that’s accumulated over the summer months. Since freezing temperatures can cause the plastic to become brittle and crack, it absolutely cannot be stored outside during the winter. Whether it’s your garage or a storage unit, store your plastic patio set in a spot where the temperatures won’t dip below freezing. You can carefully stack the chairs, then cover everything in a protective tarp.
Wood furniture Moisture is the enemy of wooden furniture, so it’s not enough to simply cover wood patio furniture and call it a day. A moisture-resistant sealant should be painted onto your patio set before it’s tucked away for the season. Once the sealant is dry, wrap the furniture in a waterproof cover.
Metal furniture First, wash down your metal furniture with soap and water, then inspect it carefully for signs of corrosion. If any is found, treat the rust with a rust-neutralizing primer. Since rain and snow lead to corrosion, metal furniture should be kept indoors during the winter. Before putting it in storage, treat the metal with a thin layer of wax for extra protection.
Cushions and covers Anything made of fabric, like your furniture’s cushions and covers, should be vacuumed and wiped down with soapy water at the end of the season. To protect them from dust, pack your patio set cushions and covers into plastic bins and store them indoors.
Find container storage in Milton, Oakville and surrounding areas
Are you looking for a place to keep your patio furniture for the winter? If so, it can be safely stored in an indoor self-storage unit at one of our secure facilities in Mississauga, Milton, Guelph, Freelton, Oakville, Georgetown, Dundas or Hamilton. Contact the team at U-Need Storage to find out more or get a free quote.