How to protect and prepare your furniture for winter

With winter fast approaching, it's time to consider how best to protect your garden furniture against the cold, damp weather. Ideally, we’d all have space in a garage or shed to store everything, but in reality, most garden furniture is designed to stay outside year-round. While many materials can handle the elements, some need extra care to keep them in top shape. Here’s a guide to help you winterise each type of garden furniture.

Hardwood furniture

Hardwood furniture is one of the most vulnerable types, often deteriorating quickly without protection. To shield it from the winter weather, coat it with a protective stain. Ideally, this should be done in the spring, but if your furniture is untreated, take action before winter hits. First, sand down the surface to remove any old material, creating a smooth, clean base for the new coating. Ensure the wood is dry, then apply two or three coats of stain for lasting protection. It’s time-consuming, but it pays off in extending the life of your furniture. For more affordable hardwood pieces, consider covering them with a waterproof cover.

Teak furniture

Teak is naturally durable, and with minimal upkeep, it can last for years. Over time, the teak’s golden tone will weather to a silvery patina, a normal ageing process that doesn’t require treatment. Once a year, though, it’s a good idea to sand down the surface to remove any mould or algae buildup and refresh its appearance. Teak furniture doesn’t need a protective stain, but covering it through winter can help keep it clean.

Rattan or wicker garden furniture

Rattan and wicker furniture can suffer over winter if not properly looked after. Poor-quality rattan is especially prone to warping and fading. Dirt can settle into the intricate weave, making it challenging to clean, so a winter cover is highly recommended. If you cover it, ensure it’s stored in a sheltered spot—rattan is lightweight and can easily tip in strong winds if not secured.

Cast Aluminium Garden Furniture

The most durable of all garden furniture materials. It can be left outside year-round without the need to cover. Some choose to cover it to keep it clean, but if left uncovered, it is easy to clean using warm, soapy water or even a jet wash to restore its shine. Aluminium furniture is usually powder coated, which does not cope well in coastal locations with a high salt content in the air. If you live close to the sea, you should spray your furniture regularly with fresh water and, ideally, put it inside over the winter. The corrosive properties of bird droppings and tree sap can also damage powder-coated aluminium. It is important to remove these quickly if they appear on your furniture.

Winter Protection Options for Your Garden Furniture

Furniture Covers

Choose a well-fitting, breathable cover to protect your furniture. Make sure it’s securely fastened to prevent wind from getting underneath and lifting the furniture, which can cause significant damage. For better rain protection, use a shedding pole or a solid object to create a slope, preventing rainwater from pooling on the cover. If you have a parasol, its lower pole can serve as a handy shedding pole.

Storage Chests

Cushions and parasols should be stored inside or in a waterproof storage chest to prevent mildew. They should also be completely dry before storage to prevent mould growth. Easy-carry cushion storage bags are also ideal.

Moving Parts (Lazy Susans etc)

Some items, such as a rotating Lazy Susan, have moving parts that should be removed and stored indoors to protect them from frost. Lubricate these parts before storing to ensure they remain functional when you’re ready to use them again.