How to Protect Outdoor Furniture from Sun, Rain & Snow | Erba Outdoor

 

Keep your patio furniture looking new all year. Discover expert tips from Erba Outdoor on protecting outdoor furniture from sun, rain, and snow with covers, cleaning, and seasonal care.

Outdoor furniture is made to handle the outdoors, but without the right protection, even the best patio set can fade, rust, or crack. From hot summer sun to heavy rain and snowy winters, your furniture needs a little care to keep it looking beautiful.

At Erba Outdoor, we specialize in durable and stylish outdoor furniture. Here’s a complete guide to protecting your investment — season after season.

Why You Should Protect Your Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture faces three main challenges:

☀️ Sun Exposure

• Fades fabrics and weakens materials
• Causes wood to dry and crack
• Makes colors look dull over time

Tip: Add shade with umbrellas or pergolas, and treat cushions with UV spray for extra protection.

Rain & Humidity

• Leads to mold and mildew on fabrics
• Can cause wood to swell and metal to rust

Tip: Always use breathable, waterproof covers and let furniture dry before covering.

❄️ Snow & Freezing Temperatures

• Water expands as it freezes, leading to cracks in wood, stone, and metal finishes

Tip: Store cushions indoors and use elevated covers to prevent water pooling.

Outdoor Furniture Care by Material

Wooden Furniture (Teak, Acacia, Eucalyptus)

• Clean with mild soap and water
• Use a teak sealer once or twice a year if you prefer the golden look
• Let teak naturally weather into silver-gray if desired

Browse our wooden outdoor furniture collection for timeless styles.

Aluminum Furniture

• Rinse with soapy water and a soft cloth
• Touch up paint chips to prevent rust
• Lightweight and rust-resistant — perfect for humid or coastal climates

Wrought Iron & Steel Furniture

• Wipe dry after rain to prevent rust
• Apply a protective wax or sealant once a year
• Spot-treat rust with a wire brush and outdoor metal paint

Wicker & Rope Outdoor Furniture

• Clean with a brush and mild soap
• Avoid harsh cleaners that weaken fibers
• Store under cover during harsh weather

Outdoor Cushions & Fabrics

• Brush off dust weekly
• Wash covers as recommended (machine wash or sponge clean)
• Store in a ventilated cushion box or indoors during wet seasons

Upgrade with our outdoor cushions & fabrics designed for weather resistance.

Why Outdoor Furniture Covers Are Essential

Using quality outdoor furniture covers is the simplest way to extend the life of your set.

Look for covers that are:

• Waterproof but breathable
• UV-resistant
• Secured with straps or ties to withstand wind

⚠️ Never cover wet furniture — this traps moisture and causes mildew.

Seasonal Outdoor Furniture Care Checklist

Spring

• Wash all furniture
• Re-seal wood and stone surfaces
• Check for loose screws or chips in paint

Summer

• Quick clean every few weeks
• Use shade for UV protection
• Cover during long absences or after storms

Fall

• Deep clean before storing
• Put cushions away
• Reapply protective coatings

Winter

• Store lightweight items indoors
• Cover heavy items with breathable covers
• Remove snow buildup from tabletops

FAQs on Protecting Outdoor Furniture

1. Can outdoor furniture stay outside all year?
Yes, but using covers and storing cushions during winter will help extend its life.

2. How do I stop cushions from getting moldy?
Always dry them completely before storing and use a ventilated cushion box.

3. What’s the best finish for teak furniture?
Use a teak sealer if you want to keep the honey tone, or let it naturally turn silver-gray.

4. Should I power wash outdoor furniture?
Avoid it on wood or wicker — it can damage fibers. Use mild soap and water instead.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your outdoor furniture doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right covers, seasonal cleaning, and smart storage, you can enjoy your patio set for years to come.

At Erba Outdoor, we design furniture that’s not only stylish but also built to handle the elements. Explore our latest outdoor furniture collections or reach out to our team for personalized care advice.

Keep your patio ready year-round with Erba Outdoor — Shop now.

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