Essential Garden Furniture Maintenance Tips for Autumn and Winter

At Hilltop Garden Centre, we understand how important it is to keep your outdoor space looking great all year round, even when the weather takes a turn for the worse. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you care for your garden furniture during autumn and winter, so when spring comes around, you'll be ready to enjoy your outdoor oasis without a hitch.

Discover the best Autumn and Winter garden furniture products

Clean Thoroughly Before Storing or Covering

Before putting your furniture away or covering it for winter, it's essential to give it a good clean. Dirt, leaves, and other debris can accumulate on the surfaces and crevices of your garden furniture, leading to mould, rust, and damage if left unattended.

• Wooden Furniture: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose dirt. Then, clean with a mixture of mild soapy water and a soft sponge, being careful not to oversaturate the wood, as excessive water can cause warping. Rinse with clean water and let it dry thoroughly before applying any treatments.

• Metal Furniture: Metal furniture, especially if it’s powder-coated, is relatively easy to clean. Simply use a damp cloth and mild soap to wipe away dirt. For more stubborn grime, use a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the surface. Dry completely to avoid rust spots.

• Rattan or Wicker Furniture: A soft-bristled brush works well to remove any debris from the weave of rattan or wicker furniture. After brushing, clean with soapy water and a sponge. Avoid high-pressure washing as this can damage the material.

Cleaning your furniture will not only make it look fresh but will also help to prevent long-term damage, making your furniture last longer.

Protect Your Furniture from Harsh Weather

Autumn and winter bring a mix of rain, frost, and even snow, all of which can damage your outdoor furniture if not properly protected. The best way to safeguard your investment is by using high-quality covers or moving the furniture into storage.

• Covers: Invest in weather-resistant covers for your furniture. These covers should be waterproof, breathable, and properly fitted to protect against rain, wind, and UV rays. Loose-fitting covers can allow moisture in, which can cause problems like rust, mould, or mildew.

• Storage: If you have the space, moving your garden furniture into a shed or garage is the best way to protect it. Wooden furniture, in particular, benefits from being stored in a dry environment, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rot. Alternatively, if storage space is limited, stackable or foldable furniture is a great option that takes up less room.

For larger, heavier pieces of furniture that may be difficult to move, consider raising them off the ground slightly to avoid contact with wet surfaces, which can cause damage over time.

Apply Protective Treatments

Some types of garden furniture benefit from additional treatments before being exposed to the elements, helping to maintain their appearance and durability.

• Wooden Furniture: Wood is naturally porous, meaning it can absorb moisture, which leads to swelling and cracking. To prevent this, treat your wooden furniture with a protective oil or sealant. Teak oil, for example, can help preserve the wood’s natural beauty while adding a layer of protection. Reapply treatments annually or as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Metal Furniture: If your metal furniture isn't rust-resistant, it’s important to inspect it for any signs of rust and treat it promptly. Use sandpaper or a wire brush to remove rust spots, then apply a rust-resistant primer and touch-up paint. 

• Rattan or Wicker Furniture: Synthetic rattan is generally weather-resistant, but if your furniture is made from natural rattan, consider applying a weatherproof lacquer to help it stand up to the elements. Avoid placing rattan furniture directly on damp ground, as it can absorb moisture from below, leading to mould growth.

Consider Cushions and Fabrics

While garden furniture cushions add comfort and style, they are often the most vulnerable to autumn and winter weather. Water, frost, and dampness can lead to mould and mildew on fabrics, so it’s important to care for them properly.

• Cleaning: Before storing, wash or wipe down your cushions to remove dirt and stains. Be sure to check the care label for cleaning instructions, as some fabrics are machine-washable while others require spot cleaning.

• Storage: Cushions and fabric covers should be stored indoors or in a dry, well-ventilated space. Use storage bags to keep them protected from dust and pests over the winter months. If you don’t have indoor storage, invest in waterproof cushion storage boxes that can remain outside while keeping your fabrics dry.

By properly cleaning and storing cushions, you'll ensure they remain fresh and ready to use next spring.

Don’t Forget Regular Maintenance During Winter

Even if your furniture is covered or stored away, it’s still a good idea to check on it periodically throughout the winter. Wind and rain can displace covers, and extreme weather conditions may cause wear and tear. A quick inspection every few weeks can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

If you notice any damage, such as torn covers, rust spots, or loose fastenings, address the issue as soon as possible. A little maintenance now can save you time and money when spring arrives.

Use a Winter-Friendly Layout

If you plan to keep some furniture outside for autumn use, consider rearranging your garden space to create a more sheltered, winter-friendly layout. Position tables, chairs, and benches closer to walls or under a gazebo to protect them from wind and rain.

Create a cosy outdoor seating area with durable furniture, blankets, and cushions that can be easily taken inside after use. Adding outdoor heaters or a fire pit will make the space more inviting during chilly autumn evenings.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your garden furniture in excellent condition throughout autumn and winter. At Hilltop Garden Centre, we offer a range of garden furniture waterproof covers to help you protect your investment. Feel free to visit us for expert advice and browse our selection of garden furniture. 

Winter may bring harsher weather, but with the right care and maintenance, your garden furniture will be ready to greet the sunshine again come spring!