To keep your patio furniture looking as good as new, you should consider storing it during the off-season. If you’re a Fairfax City resident preparing for the falling temperatures, snow, and ice, you’ll find helpful tips on how to store patio furniture for winter or any time of the year.
Some might ask, why store patio furniture in a storage unit? Patio furniture is built to withstand the weather, but over time harsh conditions can shorten its life. Winter weather can dull fabrics, weaken plastics and rust metal parts
Storing patio furniture in a storage unit frees up space in a crowded garage or shed. Perhaps you’re an apartment dweller with no extra storage space. A storage unit is an ideal place to keep bulky oversized patio furniture.
How to Store Your Outdoor Patio Furniture for the Winter
It’s important to clean patio furniture before placing it in a storage unit.
Cleaning outdoor patio furniture
- Metal – Remove all mud, dirt, and any crusted-on food or liquids. If any rust is visible treat with a rust-neutralizing primer. Paint with a similar color and apply a sealant for extra protection. Dry according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Plastic – Plastic patio furniture can break or become brittle especially in colder climates. Clean all plastic furniture with soap and water, allow to air dry before storing.
- Wood –Clean wood surfaces with oil soap and apply a protective sealant. Restore and repair any wood furniture before storage. Polish or wax wood areas for extra protection.
- Wicker – Wicker furniture needs special attention because it is prone to mildew. Use an oil-based product to keep it clean and moisturized. If the wicker is dried out it should be refreshed before storage.
- Fabrics – Fabric patio furniture such as hammocks and cushions should be washed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some furniture cushions cannot be machine washed. Use a brush to remove dried-on foods. For stains gently brush with a mild detergent and rinse with water and dry.
- Umbrellas – Remove any debris from the umbrella, rinse with water and dry completely. Check the stem and ribs, repair if needed. Oil can be used to lubricate crank handles and other metal-on-metal parts. Check cords on cantilever umbrellas and repair if necessary.
Tips for Storing Patio Furniture
Taking time to clean, protect and restore your outdoor patio furniture will keep it in peak condition for many seasons. Keeping furniture out from wintery conditions will extend its life even further. When preparing patio furniture for winter storage be sure to protect glass tabletops. Stack chairs to maximize space. It’s best to keep wood, metal, and wicker furniture off the floor especially if the unit is not temperature controlled. Use a pallet, cinder blocks, or place cardboard under the items.
Outdoor winter storage for patio furniture can be as simple as using a tarp or other covering. If using a cover, secure with bungee cords or rope. Moisture can become trapped within tarps or plastic coverings. Be sure to check for mold and mildew when spring arrives. Coverings or tarps might not keep out rodents. Throughout the winter check for any mice or other small rodents.
Contact Us Today
Winterizing and storing patio furniture might not be the ideal way to spend a weekend, but it’s worth it. Placing patio furniture in winter storage can keep your investment looking its best year after year. We have 30 years of experience offering quality storage solutions for patio furniture and all your possessions. Conveniently located in Fairfax, Virginia off the beltway, come tour our facility with 24-hour access, 365 days a year.
If you have questions about choosing the right unit for your situation and budget, contact us today or give us a call at (703) 978-1200.