Snow, ice, and other winter elements may be pretty to look at from the comfort of your home, but these conditions aren’t always so pleasant for items that are still outside—including outdoor furniture. That’s why, if you want your patio furniture to remain in good condition for the next year, it’s important to properly clean and store every piece ahead of the winter season. To help you protect your investment, here are a few ways you should—and shouldn’t—store outdoor furniture over the winter.

Do:

Clean surfaces thoroughly.

Whether you’re leaving weather-proof pieces out on the patio or storing vulnerable items in the shed, it’s important to clean them all thoroughly. When dirt and debris are left on outdoor furniture, they damage the materials over time. In some cases, failing to clean may also promote the growth of mold and mildew.

Launder cushions.

Although most outdoor cushions are designed to stand up to the elements, it’s still a good idea to have them cleaned. Even if the fabric is mildew-resistant, the dirt and debris that accumulate inside the cushion may be susceptible to mold and mildew growth.

Touch up paint or sealant.

Repairing any paint or sealant issues on furniture can ensure that the surfaces are protected against the elements. For example, properly sealing wood furniture can help keep moisture from seeping into the surface and causing it to rot. Applying rust-resistant paint to metal pieces can also defend against destructive corrosion.

Don’t:

Stack pieces that can scratch.

If your chairs or tables are made out of materials that can be scratched, don’t stack them. The friction between each piece can create blemishes on the surface that may require professional repair.

Seal in moisture.

Do not seal cushions or fabrics in a plastic bag or container unless they are completely dry. If any moisture is present, these coverings can create an ideal environment for mold and bacteria growth. Additionally, they will smell musty when you pull them out in spring.

Ignore damage.

If you spot any damage to outdoor furniture, don’t store it until it is fixed. Leaving small problems unaddressed can result in significant damage over time. Instead, call a furniture repair specialist who can make sure the piece is restored to a condition that is safe for storage.

When you want to get your outdoor furniture ready for winter, there’s no better team to call than the specialists at Unique Furniture Enterprises. Providing furniture repair services in Cincinnati, OH, for more than 25 years, these professionals know how to restore damaged pieces so that they maintain their look and function for many more seasons. If your furniture is outdated or past the point of repair, this retailer also offers a wide range of stylish, durable outdoor products that can transform your patio. Visit them online to learn more about their products and services. For questions about furniture reupholstering or repair, call (513) 821-7967.