Outdoor Patio Dining Furniture Sets – How To Protect It From the Weather

Your patio is the centerpiece of your home during the summer months. Whether you lounge by the pool during the day or grill in the evening, outdoor patio dining furniture sets are an integral part of having fun in the sun. Don’t let your furniture prematurely age by neglecting its maintenance. It only takes a little regular care to keep your patio pieces in tip-top shape.

Throughout the year, gently remove dirt and grime with a damp cloth and mild detergent. You should also take extra steps to prepare your furniture to be taken out of storage in the spring.

First, remove any cushions so you can thoroughly clean the furniture. Depending on the type of material used to make your furniture, the cleaning method will vary. But for most patio pieces, using detergent and water is safe and effective. Wicker furniture can be sprayed with a hose, but be sure to allow the pieces to dry thoroughly before putting any weight on them. Wet, natural wicker can easily be damaged.

After you have cleaned your furniture and allowed it to dry completely, you need to protect the frame. Again, depending on the type of furniture, you will need to apply a sealant or protector. Boiled linseed oil can be applied to natural wicker furniture to replenish its moisture and prevent drying and cracking. Metal furniture can be protected by wax, and wood can be sealed with a varnish. There are also some products on the market specially formulated for exotic woods such as teak.

Care must also be taken to protect the cushions of outdoor patio tables and chairs. You can spot clean stains with detergent followed by a thorough rinsing. Take care to ensure that the upholstery is completely dry before storage. Otherwise, you could end up with moldy, rotten seats in the spring. As an extra precaution against mildew, don’t wrap the cushions in plastic for storage. This can trap moisture and encourage mildew and mold growth. In the spring, get your cushions ready for the summer sun by applying a fabric protector to both sides of all upholstery.

Finally, carefully consider your storage options. If at all possible, move your furniture inside the house, garage or a shed to keep it out of the elements. A dry location will maintain the integrity of your furniture for years to come.

If you do have the space to store your furniture indoors, invest in high-quality covers for all of our outdoor patio furnishings. Good furniture covers will be well-ventilated to prevent mold growth on your furniture but also sturdy enough to avoid having moisture seep through to your furniture. Be sure to use the covers during the summer as well when rainy weather is expected. During the winter, if possible, move outdoor patio furniture to a sheltered location on your patio even when covered.

Although patio furniture is made to be used outside, it is not necessarily weather-proof. Some furniture materials such as wood and natural wicker are especially prone to aging prematurely if left outside unprotected. Take the steps above to keep your patio pieces in pristine condition.

Ensure the life of your patio furniture by taking the proper steps to protect it. No matter what type of furniture you’ve purchased, outdoor patio dining furniture sets can help you learn how to care for your investment. Beautiful patio furniture is an asset to every home.