Protect Your Outdoor Space for the Cold Months

When temperatures drop, your patio furniture becomes vulnerable to moisture, snow, freezing rain, and harsh winter winds. Proper winterizing not only extends the life of your outdoor furniture — it also saves money by reducing wear, rust, mold, and cracking.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to winterize every type of patio furniture so it stays protected until spring.

1. Clean Everything Before Storing It

Any residue left on your furniture over winter can cause mold, stains, and discoloration.

Clean each material the right way:

• Metal, plastic, resin: mild soap + warm water

• Wood: wood-safe cleaner

• Wicker: soft brush + gentle cleaner

• Fabric cushions: wash covers or spot clean

Let everything dry completely before protecting or storing.

2. Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: What’s the Difference?

This is essential for choosing the right covers.

Waterproof

• Blocks water completely

• Withstands snow and heavy rain

• Best for harsh winters

• Recommended for most climates

Water-Resistant

• Repels light moisture

• Good for mild climates

• Not ideal for snow or long storms

Tip: If you get snow or freezing rain, choose waterproof covers.

3. How to Protect Wood, Metal, Wicker, and Plastic Furniture

Wood

• Clean and dry

• Apply wood oil or sealant

• Use breathable waterproof covers

• Avoid wrapping fully in plastic

Metal

• Clean and dry

• Touch up scratches to prevent rust

• Add a thin layer of car wax

• Cover with rust-resistant waterproof covers

Wicker

• Clean between the weave

• Let dry thoroughly

• Cover tightly

• Natural wicker should be stored indoors if possible

Plastic/Resin

• Wash and dry

• Store if possible

• Avoid heavy snow weight

4. Protect Cushions and Fabrics

Outdoor cushions can mold if stored incorrectly.

Do this:

• Clean the covers

• Let everything dry fully

• Store indoors

• Use storage bins or fabric bags

• Add moisture absorbers

Never leave cushions outdoors through winter — even under covers.

5. Use High-Quality Winter Covers

Covers are your best defense if furniture stays outside.

Look for:

• Waterproof material

• Air vents

• Tie-down straps

• UV resistance

• Snug fit

High-quality covers extend the life of your furniture by years.

6. Store What You Can

If space allows, store fragile or fabric-heavy items:

• Cushions

• Umbrellas

• Wood furniture

• Small accessories

• Natural wicker pieces

Even storing a little helps a lot.

7. Winterize Patio Umbrellas

• Clean fabric

• Let dry

• Collapse and tie

• Store indoors

• Use waterproof cover if left outside

8. Winterize Your Grill

• Clean grates

• Empty grease tray

• Disconnect propane

• Cover with waterproof grill cover

Store propane outside — never indoors.

9. Keep Snow Off Furniture

If furniture remains outside:

• Brush snow off regularly

• Never use a shovel or scraper on furniture

• Avoid letting ice accumulate

10. When Spring Arrives

Your spring setup will be quick and easy:

• Remove covers

• Quick wipe-down

• Put cushions back out

• Check for loose screws

Your outdoor space will be ready for the season with very little work.

Final Thoughts

Winterizing your patio furniture protects your investment and keeps your outdoor space looking beautiful for years to come. With simple cleaning, smart protection, and the right winter covers, you can enjoy your patio season after season — the Inside Out Yard Essentials way.