How to Prepare Garden Furniture for Winter

How to Prepare Garden Furniture for Winter

Preparing outdoor furniture for winter doesn't need to become a weekend-long job. Focus on cleaning, drying, checking for damage and protecting each piece from prolonged damp conditions.

1. Clean Your Garden Furniture

Remove leaves, dirt, bird mess and other debris before putting furniture away.

For most outdoor furniture, mild soapy water and a soft cloth or brush will do the job. Avoid harsh chemicals unless they're specifically recommended for the material.

Pay extra attention to:

• Joints and corners
• Underneath seats and tables
• Rattan weaves
• Furniture feet
• Hinges and fixings

Cleaning now prevents dirt from sitting against the surface throughout winter.

2. Let Everything Dry Completely

Never cover or store garden furniture while it's still damp.

Trapped moisture can encourage mould, mildew or corrosion, particularly in enclosed storage spaces. Choose a dry day for your winter garden furniture care and allow plenty of time for every part of the furniture to air-dry.

3. Check for Damage

Small problems are much easier to deal with before winter weather makes them worse.

Check for:

• Loose screws or bolts
• Chipped metal coatings
• Early signs of rust
• Cracked or damaged rattan weave
• Splits or worn finishes on wood

Tighten loose fittings and carry out any appropriate repairs before storing or covering the furniture.

4. Bring Cushions Indoors

Even if your cushions are described as water-resistant or shower-resistant, prolonged winter exposure isn't ideal.

Make sure cushions are completely dry before storing them in a dry garage, shed, cupboard or suitable storage container. Check the care label before washing removable covers.

5. Cover or Store the Furniture

Indoor storage offers the greatest protection, but it isn't always practical.

If you have space, move furniture into a dry:

• Garage
• Shed
• Outbuilding
• Covered storage area

For larger sets that need to stay outdoors, use a properly fitting furniture cover and secure it so strong winds can't lift it.

How to Store Garden Furniture in Winter

The best place to store garden furniture in winter is somewhere dry, sheltered and reasonably well ventilated.

Before storing it, make sure the furniture is clean and completely dry. Avoid cramming pieces tightly together if this prevents airflow.

Stackable chairs and folding furniture can save valuable shed or garage space. If outdoor storage is limited, browse garden storage options that can help keep cushions and smaller accessories organised.

Should You Cover Garden Furniture in a Shed?

A cover isn't always necessary if your shed or garage stays dry.

If the space is prone to dust or occasional damp, a breathable cover can provide extra protection. Avoid wrapping furniture tightly in non-breathable plastic if moisture could become trapped underneath.

Can Garden Furniture Be Left Outside in Winter?

Some garden furniture can be left outside in winter, but whether you should depends on the material, construction and manufacturer's care instructions.

As a quick guide:

Even weather-resistant garden furniture usually benefits from extra protection during prolonged British winter weather. Always follow the care instructions supplied with your particular set.

How to Protect Rattan Garden Furniture in Winter

Most modern outdoor rattan furniture uses synthetic rattan designed to cope with outdoor conditions. Natural rattan is much more vulnerable to moisture and should generally be kept indoors.

For synthetic rattan:

• Brush debris from between the weave.
• Clean it gently with mild soapy water.
• Let the furniture dry completely.
• Remove cushions and store them indoors.
• Cover the furniture if it's staying outside.
• Keep it away from areas where water regularly collects.

Avoid aggressive scrubbing or pressure washing unless the manufacturer specifically states that it's suitable.

If you're replacing an older set, explore our range of rattan garden furniture for low-maintenance options suited to modern outdoor spaces.

How to Protect Metal Garden Furniture in Winter

Metal furniture can be highly durable, but the type of metal matters.

Aluminium Garden Furniture

Aluminium doesn't rust in the same way as iron or steel, making it a practical option for outdoor use.

Before winter:

• Wash away dirt and debris.
• Dry the frame thoroughly.
• Check powder-coated finishes for damage.
• Store cushions indoors.
• Use a cover to keep the furniture cleaner and reduce exposure to poor weather.

Steel and Iron Garden Furniture

Steel and iron need more attention because damaged protective coatings can leave the metal vulnerable to corrosion.

Check carefully for chips, scratches and rust. Treat damaged areas using a suitable rust-resistant outdoor product before winter.

If possible, keep steel and iron furniture in a shed or sheltered area. Where that isn't practical, use a secure outdoor furniture cover.

How to Protect Wooden Garden Furniture in Winter

Winter care for wooden garden furniture depends heavily on the type of timber.

Hardwood Garden Furniture

Hardwoods such as teak and eucalyptus can generally tolerate outdoor conditions better than many softwoods.

Clean the furniture and inspect it for damage before winter. Keeping the feet away from permanently wet ground and protecting the furniture from prolonged rainfall can help maintain its condition.

Some hardwood furniture naturally changes colour as it weathers. If you'd prefer to maintain its original appearance, check whether a suitable outdoor furniture oil or protective treatment is recommended.

Softwood Garden Furniture

Softwoods such as pine usually need more protection.

Clean the wood and check whether its existing stain, paint or protective finish needs renewing. Pay particular attention to horizontal areas and furniture feet where moisture can sit.

Where possible, softwood furniture is best stored somewhere sheltered during winter.

How to Use Garden Furniture Covers in Winter

A garden furniture cover is useful, but simply throwing one over a wet table isn't enough.

For better protection:

• Clean the furniture first.
• Make sure it is completely dry.
• Choose the correct cover size.
• Secure the cover against strong winds.
• Allow some airflow beneath it.
• Check periodically for trapped water or condensation.
• Don't leave cushions underneath unless the manufacturer specifically advises it.

A badly fitted cover can collect rainwater or flap against furniture in windy weather, so secure straps or ties properly.

Common Winter Garden Furniture Care Mistakes

A few avoidable mistakes can undo all your hard work.

Covering Furniture While It's Wet

This traps moisture exactly where you don't want it.

Leaving Cushions Outside

Outdoor cushions may cope with the odd shower, but months of damp weather can lead to staining, odours and mould.

Ignoring Small Rust Spots

Tiny areas of corrosion can spread when exposed to repeated rain and moisture.

Leaving Furniture on Wet Grass

Move furniture onto a patio, paving or another well-drained surface where possible.

Assuming Weather-Resistant Means Maintenance-Free

Weather-resistant furniture still benefits from regular cleaning, sensible storage and winter protection.

Quick Tips for Preparing Outdoor Furniture for Winter

• Start winter preparation during a spell of dry autumn weather.
• Clean furniture before storing it.
• Never cover furniture while damp.
• Bring cushions and fabric accessories indoors.
• Treat exposed wood or damaged metal where required.
• Keep furniture away from standing water.
• Use breathable, properly fitted covers.
• Secure lightweight furniture before high winds.
• Check furniture occasionally throughout winter.

A little maintenance before the weather turns can save plenty of scrubbing, repairs and replacement costs next spring.

Winter Garden Furniture Care FAQs

When should I put garden furniture away for winter?

Prepare and store garden furniture once you're unlikely to use it regularly, usually during autumn. Choose a dry day so the furniture can be cleaned and allowed to dry fully before storage.

Can rattan garden furniture be left outside in winter?

Synthetic outdoor rattan can often remain outside, depending on the frame and manufacturer's instructions. Clean it, remove cushions and use a suitable cover for extra protection. Natural rattan should normally be stored somewhere dry.

Can metal garden furniture stay outside over winter?

Aluminium furniture generally copes well outdoors, while steel and iron need greater protection from rust. Check protective coatings regularly and store or cover metal furniture where possible.

Can wooden garden furniture be left outside all year?

Some hardwood furniture can remain outdoors throughout the year with the right care. Softwoods generally benefit from treatment and sheltered winter storage. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for your particular furniture.

Should garden furniture covers be waterproof?

Garden furniture covers should protect against rain while still allowing moisture to escape. A secure, weather-resistant cover with ventilation is usually preferable to wrapping furniture tightly in material that traps condensation.

Where should garden cushions be stored in winter?

Store clean, completely dry cushions indoors or in a dry, well-ventilated storage space. Avoid leaving cushions underneath outdoor furniture covers for long periods unless they're specifically designed for year-round outdoor storage.

Keep Your Garden Furniture Ready for Spring

Good winter garden furniture care comes down to four things: clean it, dry it, repair it and protect it.

Store furniture indoors where practical, keep cushions dry and tailor your maintenance to the material. These simple steps can help your outdoor furniture stay looking better and remain ready for plenty more summers.

If you're planning ahead for next season, explore our garden furniture collection at Bed Kingdom to find dining sets, garden sofas, rattan furniture and outdoor seating for spaces of every size.