Winterizing Your Patio Furniture: A Guide to Storing and Protecting Your Outdoor Furniture

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it's a sure sign that winter is on its way. While you might be ready to cozy up indoors, it's essential not to forget about your outdoor oasis – your beloved Hauser patio furniture. Properly storing and protecting your patio furniture during the winter months can extend its lifespan and ensure it remains in excellent condition for many seasons to come. In this guide, we'll explore the best practices for winterizing your patio furniture, with a focus on using protective covers and storage.

Clean and Prepare Your Furniture:

Before storing your patio furniture, give it a good cleaning. Use our Hauser Multi- Surface Furniture Cleaner and warm water to wash away dirt, grime, and any food or drink stains For teak wood furniture, apply a wood cleaner or protector to maintain its natural beauty, Hauser Teak Care Kit. For metal or plastic furniture, ensure that all joints, screws, and fasteners are tightened.

Remove Cushions and Fabrics:

If your patio furniture has cushions or fabric elements, it's best to remove them before storing. Fabric elements are susceptible to moisture and mold damage. Wash and dry them thoroughly before storing them indoors. Make sure they are free of moisture to prevent mildew growth. Store in an area free from pests.

Cleaning Cushions:

• Pat cushions to remove excess dust.
• Hose down entire cushion using clean water source – use a mild soap solution of Dawn dish soap and warm water to lightly scrub any stains and hose down again with fresh water- Use a very soft bristle brush to lightly scrub any stains.
• Stand cushions up on sides & allow to air dry – we recommend doing this on a warm sunny day

For stubborn stains, use our Hauser Fabric Cleaner and Hauser Fabric Protector solutions, and follow the bottle's instructions.

Invest in Quality Protective Covers:

Protective covers are crucial for winterizing your patio furniture. Hauser Protective Covers are water-resistant and UV-resistant. Select covers that fit your specific furniture pieces, covering them completely. Secure covers with fasteners to prevent them from blowing away in strong winds.

Cover Your Furniture:

Cover each piece of patio furniture individually. Secure the covers tightly to prevent flapping in the wind, which can cause damage. Ensure covers extend to the ground to prevent pests from nesting underneath. Tent the cover on your tables with an upside down pail or pool noodle to allow for some airflow. This will also allow snow and ice to run off, especially important for your teak tables.

Store Furniture in a Dry, Protected Area:

Store your patio furniture indoors, preferably in a garage, shed, or basement, to shield it from harsh weather conditions, preventing rust, decay, and other damage.

Elevate Furniture Off the Ground:

When storing furniture, elevate it off the ground using pallets or wooden blocks, especially in a garage or shed, to prevent contact with cold and damp surfaces, reducing the risk of damage.

Regularly Check for Moisture:

Periodically check on your patio furniture throughout the winter, as condensation can build up under covers, potentially causing mold and mildew growth. If moisture is present, remove the covers, allow the furniture to air out, and then replace the covers securely.

Keep Furniture Upright and Covered:

Store stackable or foldable furniture in an upright position to prevent warping or bending. Make sure it's covered, even if stored indoors, to maintain the quality of the materials.

Protect Your Umbrella with a Cover:

For patio furniture with an umbrella, invest in a Hauser Umbrella Cover made from high-quality materials. Ensure the umbrella is clean and dry before covering it to prevent moisture and mold issues during storage. Secure the cover to prevent wind dislodging it.

Safely Store Patio Decor Accessories:

Store decor accessories like candles, lanterns, pool toys and other elements in a durable Storage Box, placed in the same protected area as your furniture to shield them from harsh winter elements. This step preserves the quality and charm of your patio decor.

Prepare your patio furniture for the upcoming warmer months to ensure it remains your outdoor sanctuary, ready for your comfortable relaxation and enjoyment in the sunny season. Happy Winterizing!