As winter rolls in with its chilly mornings and frosty evenings, many homeowners start focusing on keeping cosy indoors. However, your garden, especially your outdoor furniture, deserves just as much care during the colder months.
Outdoor pieces such as benches, tables, and arbours are investments that add charm, comfort, and personality to your outdoor space. With proper care, they can withstand the unpredictable British weather and continue to look as inviting as they do in summer.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the Top 10 Winter Care Tips for Your Outdoor Furniture, featuring expert advice straight from the team at Vanstone Park Garden Centre.
Whether you’re caring for a wooden arbour, a metal furniture set, or resin planters, these simple steps will help extend their lifespan and save you from replacing them come spring.
1. Give Everything a Good Clean Before Winter Sets In
Before covering or storing your outdoor furniture, please give it a thorough clean. Dirt, leaves, and moisture can cause damage if left sitting for months.
For wooden furniture, use a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove grime. Metal or resin furniture can be wiped down with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, rinse everything thoroughly and leave it to dry completely.
Tip: Don’t forget to clean smaller items too, such as garden ornaments, decorative pots, or your AFK Heritage Sage and Cream Arbour. A clean surface prevents mould and mildew from forming, and it’ll look much more welcoming when spring returns.
2. Always Dry Before Covering
Moisture is the sneaky culprit behind mould, rot, and rust. Even a small amount trapped under a cover can cause problems. Once cleaned, ensure your furniture is completely dry before storing or covering it.
Suppose you’re short on time, dry pieces with a towel, or leave them in a well-ventilated spot for a few hours before covering. This step takes only a little effort but saves you a lot of headaches later.
3. Invest in High-Quality Furniture Covers
A good cover makes all the difference in winter. Look for breathable, water-resistant covers that keep moisture out while allowing air circulation. Avoid plastic tarps; they trap condensation, which can lead to mould growth.
At Vanstone Park Garden Centre, we offer outdoor furniture crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, ensuring they’re built to withstand all seasons. Pair them with the right covers, and your garden will stay protected and stylish through winter.
4. Move Furniture Indoors or Under Shelter
If you have the space, move lightweight furniture into a shed, garage, or covered area. Even partial protection can prevent weather-related wear and tear.
Heavier or larger pieces, like the AFK Heritage Arbour, can be left outside, but it’s best to position them against a wall or under an overhang for some shelter. Elevate legs slightly off the ground to prevent damp from seeping in.
5. Treat and Seal Wooden Furniture
Wooden furniture looks beautiful, but it needs a little extra care before winter. Apply a wood preservative or sealant to protect it from moisture and frost.
For painted designs such as the AFK Heritage Sage and Cream Arbour, check for chips or scratches and touch them up before sealing. This keeps your furniture looking fresh and prevents water from creeping into the wood.
A quick coat now means your garden pieces will emerge from winter looking as charming as ever.
6. Extra Care Tips for Winter: Keep Your Furniture Looking Its Best
With the colder months on the way, now’s the perfect time to prepare and protect your outdoor furniture so it’s ready to enjoy again come spring. Here are a few extra steps to ensure your garden furniture stays in top shape all year long:
Clean before covering
Gently wash your furniture with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and debris. Allow it to dry completely before covering to prevent mould or mildew.
Invest in quality covers
We offer a wide range of waterproof furniture covers to protect your pieces when not in use, including tables, chairs, benches, parasols, and sun loungers. We even have small, medium, and large cushion bags to keep soft furnishings safe.
Depending on your setup, it may help to use a Bosmere Water Shedding Pole beneath the cover. This reduces sagging, improves airflow, and prevents rotting. Each cover also includes ties and cords to secure it in place, a must for those windy winter nights.
Store cushions indoors
Fabric cushions and seat pads last longer when stored in a dry, well-ventilated area such as a shed, garage, or storage box.
Elevate if possible
If your furniture sits directly on the ground, lift it slightly using risers or move it onto a patio to avoid sitting water and frost damage.
Treat wood properly
Apply a protective sealant such as Alexander Rose Timber Treatment, and check for any rust on metal frames.
For even greater protection, you can use Alexander Rose Timber Shield, a water-based, non-toxic product that repels moisture, prevents mildew growth, and reduces dirt build-up. It’s especially suitable for hardwoods like Roble and Teak, providing invisible protection that keeps wood looking natural while extending its lifespan.
By following these steps, your outdoor furniture will stay protected and look its best when the sun returns.
7. Bring in Cushions and Soft Furnishings
Even if labelled “weatherproof,” cushions and fabrics should never be left out during the cold months. Prolonged dampness can lead to mould or musty smells.
Give all fabrics a good clean and store them indoors in a dry, ventilated space. Use vacuum storage bags or breathable containers to save space. Your cushions will thank you when it’s time to bring them back out in the spring.
8. Inspect Metal Furniture for Rust
Metal garden furniture is both strong and stylish, but it can develop rust over time. Before winter, check for early signs of corrosion.
If you spot any rust, gently sand the area, apply a rust-resistant primer, and then paint. Keeping on top of small patches prevents major problems later and ensures your garden furniture remains sturdy and sleek.
Protecting Your Outdoor Furniture is Worth It
Taking the time to follow these Winter Care Tips for Your Outdoor Furniture helps preserve both its beauty and function. With just a few hours of effort, you can protect your investment and avoid costly replacements.
Whether it’s a painted wooden arbour, a metal bistro set, or decorative garden ornaments, every piece deserves a bit of TLC before the frost sets in.
Frequently Asked Questions: Winter Care Tips for Your Outdoor Furniture
Should I cover my outdoor furniture during winter?
Yes. Using breathable, waterproof covers helps protect your furniture from rain, snow, and frost. Just make sure everything is clean and dry before covering to avoid mould and rust.
What’s the best way to protect wooden furniture in winter?
Clean it thoroughly, let it dry, and apply a protective sealant or oil. Move it under cover or use a breathable waterproof cover. Repainting or re-staining can also refresh its protection.
Can I leave metal furniture outside during winter?
You can, but regular maintenance is key. Treat rust spots as soon as you notice them and keep the furniture covered to prevent further damage. Moving it under a patio roof or near the house can help reduce exposure to the weather.
How do I protect terracotta pots from frost?
Terracotta is porous and can crack in freezing temperatures. Move pots indoors or wrap them with bubble wrap or fleece. Alternatively, raise them off the ground using pot feet for better drainage.
When should I uncover my outdoor furniture after winter?
Wait until the risk of frost has passed, usually around late March or April in the UK. Give everything a quick clean and inspection before setting it back up in your garden.
Winter-Proof Your Garden in Style!
Give your outdoor space the care it deserves this season with a visit to Vanstone Park Garden Centre, where expert advice, quality furniture, and seasonal inspiration come together under one roof. From durable outdoor furniture to decorative pots and ornaments, we’ve got everything you need to keep your garden looking beautiful all year round.
While you’re here, don’t forget to:
- Join our Newsletter for exclusive winter gardening tips, seasonal offers, and expert insights delivered straight to your inbox.
- Sign up for the Vanstone Rewards Card and start earning points every time you shop because taking care of your garden should come with its perks!
📍 Visit us at:
Vanstone Park Garden Centre
Hitchin Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8TH
Enjoy free parking, expert advice, carry-to-car assistance, and home delivery for larger items. Plus, we’re dog-friendly, so even your four-legged friend can enjoy the trip!
