What is the best way to store patio furniture for the winter?

Answer 1

It depends on the material your wicker furniture is made of, wood reeds or fiber. A marine base paint or oil would be the best, but it will not protect any type of wicker for prolonged periods. Leaving wicker furniture out in the elements year round is not good regardless as to what you use to protect it.

Also, it has been said that hosing down (wetting) an unpainted wicker chair once a year will make the fibers swell and stop the wiggle/slackness which occurs with age. I see no harm in this, just as I would not panic if the chair got rained on (once in a while.)

Answer 2

Wicker furniture is really not the best choice for outdoor, though some companies make special furniture with protectants already applied. You can apply a clear varnish, shellac, or laquer yourself to protect it somewhat.

Answer 3

During the winter months amongst the best ways of protecting wicker patio furniture are: paint the furniture and apply marine varnish; apply tung oil; cover the furniture and the best advice would be to store the furniture indoors.

Answer 4

I believe you can treat it with something called "marine paint", but really wicker furniture does not stand up well to being outside in all elements. It's best to make sure it is covered or brought indoors if it is going to rain, and especially for the winter.

Answer 5

You spent a lot of money on your patio furniture and you expect to enjoy it for years to come. In order to keep it in top shape, some minimal maintenance in necessary, especially in preparation for the cold months. A good storage strategy can keep your furniture safe from damage and allow you to make the most of your money. Here are some patio furniture storage ideas and tips.

Clean your furniture for the winter.

Before putting your furniture away, give it a good cleaning. Remove grime and dust using a simple solution of water and mild soap or dishwashing detergent. For wicker or wood furniture, choose an oil-based soap. Use vinegar and water to remove mildew spots. As a mild scrubbing agent, baking soda on a sponge or a soft brush is an ideal option. Let the furniture dry in the sun and make sure no water is left behind � it may unknowingly damage your furniture while stored away.

Store your furniture inside.

Patio furniture of any type of material stores well in an unheated garage. Stack lightweight chairs on top of each other for maximizing your space. Even inside, protect your furniture from dust with covers you can buy or you can make yourself. If you don't have the luxury of an inside storage space, bring in at least the cushions and pillows, and store them in boxes until the following year. Roll your patio umbrella in a piece of plastic and store it inside.

Cover your furniture.

Covers for patio furniture come in all shapes and sizes, and are usually designed to fit a specific piece such as a bench, chair or patio table. If moving the furniture inside is not an option, invest in good-quality, heavy-duty covers, and use them to protect it during the cold months. These covers are usually weighted and come with security options such as Velcro strips. These allow you to tie the covers onto the furniture and keep them in place when the wind blows water or snow onto your patio.

Check on the furniture periodically.

Melted snow tends to sneak underneath the covers in unpredictable ways. Make a habit of periodically checking your furniture and remove all possible damaging factors. If you are living in an area with generous snow fall, make sure you remove it from the covers, to prevent damages caused by its weight and by melted snow.

Following the tips above, you will preserve the beauty and quality of your patio furniture and be able to reap its benefits for many seasons. In addition, as soon as the spring makes its return, you will have nothing more to do but uncover your furniture and start enjoying it right away � for a season filled with outdoor fun.

Answer 6

Wicker patio furniture adds a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces. It is also more susceptible to weather damage than other types of patio furniture. It is important to make certain the furniture is well covered with waterproof furniture covers when it is not in use. Covers for wicker patio furniture can be purchased in the same place the furniture is purchased. Purchase covers that are specifically made for the wicker furniture in question. This will guarantee the best fit and functionality.

Answer 7

Thoroughly clean the furniture and then cover with a tarp to prevent moisture from accessing the metal. Make sure to tie down the tarp, or the wind will blow it away.

Answer 8

The best way to take care of patio furniture in the winter is to just cover it.If you look on the internet you can find affordable o0ptions in both vinyl and plastic.

Answer 9

Wicker patio furniture will hold up for years and years with minimum upkeep. It also withstands the elements better than any other cheaply made patio set.