Do you love to spend time on your outdoor furniture, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying some fresh air? But do you find yourself constantly running around trying to remember where you stored all of those extra cushions when they’re not in use?
Outdoor furniture can be a great way to make the most of your outdoor space, but without proper care and storage solutions for things like cushions, it can quickly end up being more trouble than it’s worth.
Thankfully, we have some simple tips on how to store cushions for outdoor furniture that will help make storing your garden cushions an easy task.
In this blog post, we’ll look at why having the right storage is important for preserving the life of cushion material over seasons and provide lots of creative ideas on how to store them so you can keep sitting back and relaxing outdoors!
Needed Materials
Given the right materials, you’ll be able to make storing your outdoor cushion for furniture much easier. Here’s a list of items that will come in handy:
- A Waterproof Storage Container
- Polyethylene Foam Padding
- Vacuum Bags
- Plastic, Mesh, or Fabric Covers
- Cedar Blocks or Mothballs
- A Hanging Storage Bag
The Benefits of Having the Right Storage Solution
Having a good storage solution for your outdoor cushions will ensure that your furniture lasts longer and looks better for many years to come. Here are some of the biggest benefits of having an appropriate storage plan in place:
- Keep Your Cushions in Good Condition for Many Seasons
- Protect Your Outdoor Furniture From Dirt, Dust, and Mildew Buildup
- Provide Adequate Air Circulation to Prevent Dampness and Mold Growth
- Lock in Moisture to Keep Your Cushion Material Soft and Comfortable
- Keep Away Pests That May Damage the Fabric
10 Step-by-step Simple Guidelines on How to Store Cushions for Outdoor Furniture
Step 1: Clean and Dry Your Cushions
Before storing your cushions, make sure they’re clean and dry. You can use a mild detergent mixed with warm water to remove dirt buildup. Afterward, dry the cushions in direct sunlight for best results. It’s also a good idea to cover the cushions with a waterproof material while they’re drying. It’ll prevent them from getting wet in case of rain.
Step 2: Choose an Appropriate Storage Container
Choose a storage container that is large enough and made of waterproof material to prevent moisture from entering. Plastic bins, mesh bags, or custom-made boxes are all great options for outdoor cushion storage.
However, keep in mind that a container made of breathable material will help to reduce any dampness and mildew buildup. If you opt for a plastic container, make sure to leave enough room around the cushions for air circulation.
Step 3: Line the Container with Polyethylene Foam Padding
Line your storage container with polyethylene foam padding or a sheet of cardboard to provide extra cushioning and protection for the material. This will also add an extra layer of insulation to keep out moisture.
But make sure to leave enough space between the padding and container walls for air circulation. It’s also a good idea to place a layer of plastic over the padding for extra protection against water damage.
Step 4: Vacuum Seal Your Cushions
Vacuum sealing your cushions is a great way to preserve their shape and help them last longer. Simply place the cushion in a vacuum bag, seal it shut, and remove as much air as possible using the vacuum cleaner. This will also help keep out moisture and pests. This step is especially important if you’re storing your cushions for an extended period of time.
Step 5: Cover Your Cushions with Plastic or Fabric Covers
To keep your cushions in the best condition while they’re in storage, cover them with plastic or fabric covers. This will protect against dirt, dust, and moisture build-up. If you choose to use fabric covers, make sure they are machine washable so you can easily clean them when needed.
Step 6: Place Cedar Blocks or Mothballs in the Container
Adding cedar blocks or mothballs to your storage container is a great way to keep away pests. These natural items will help deter moths, beetles, and other insects from entering the container and damaging your cushions. Although, use caution when placing mothballs in the container as they can be toxic if ingested.
Step 7: Hang a Hanging Storage Bag on the Wall
A hanging storage bag is a great way to store outdoor cushions in an organized fashion. Simply hang the bag on the wall and use it to store multiple cushions at once. This will keep your cushion material from getting dusty or damp in between uses. You can also use the bag to store other items like pillows and blankets.
Step 8: Place Your Cushions Inside the Storage Container
Once you’ve followed all of the steps above, you can now place your cushions into their storage container. Make sure to pad the containers with foam or cardboard for extra protection and cover them tightly with a lid. It’s also a good idea to label the lids so you can easily identify which cushions are inside.
Step 9: Place Your Storage Container in an Ideal Location
Choose a location that is away from direct sunlight, as this can cause the material to fade and deteriorate rapidly. Also try to avoid placing your storage container in an area that is prone to extreme temperatures, such as a garage or basement. It’s best to store your cushions in a cool, dry place.
Step 10: Periodically Check Your Cushions
In order to keep your cushions looking great for years to come, you’ll want to periodically check them to make sure they are in good condition. If you notice that the material is starting to show signs of wear, it may be time to replace them with new cushions. Always make sure to store your cushions properly after removing them from their container.
Storing your outdoor furniture cushions properly is an important task for extending their life and keeping them looking great for many years to come.
Make sure to follow these 10 steps on how to store cushions for outdoor furniture and you’ll be sitting back and relaxing in no time!
Following these steps will help you keep your outdoor cushions in top shape, but there are also some other great tips for prolonging the life of your outdoor furniture.
For example, make sure to use a waterproof cover when not in use to protect against moisture and dirt buildup. Also consider investing in quality materials that can withstand all kinds of weather conditions, such as UV-resistant fabrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Often Should I Check My Outdoor Cushion for Damage or Wear?
A: The frequency of checking your cushions will depend on how often they are used and exposed to the elements. If you notice signs of wear, make sure to inspect the cushions regularly. If the material is damaged or thinning, it’s time to replace the cushion with a new one.
Q: Does Vacuum Sealing Really Help Preserve Cushion Material?
A: Yes! Vacuum sealing helps protect your cushion material from moisture and pests. It also helps preserve the shape of the cushions and keep them looking great for many years to come.
Q: Are There Any Other Tips For Storing Outdoor Cushions?
A: Yes! Make sure to use a waterproof cover when not in use to protect against moisture and dirt buildup. Also consider investing in quality materials that are designed to withstand all kinds of weather conditions, such as UV-resistant fabrics.
Additionally, make sure to store your cushions in an area that is away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help keep them looking great for years to come!
Q: What Types of Containers Can I Use to Store My Outdoor Cushions?
A: Plastic bins, mesh bags, custom-made boxes, vacuum bags or hanging storage bags are all great options for storing outdoor cushions. Make sure to choose a container that is large enough and made of waterproof material to protect your cushion from moisture. Additionally, line the container with foam or cardboard to provide extra cushioning and protection.
Conclusion
Storing your outdoor cushions properly can help extend their lifespan and ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy them for many years to come.
If the forecast calls for rain, humidity, snow, or high winds, it’s best to keep them tucked away in a secure location that will provide cushion protection. I would recommend investing in durable waterproof covers and storage bins made of galvanized steel or even wooden pallets.
Taking just these few extra steps on how to store cushions for outdoor furniture can mean your cushions don’t end up a soggy mess at the start of every season.
To really get the most out of your outdoor furniture, take the time to properly store your cushions when not in use; trust me, you won’t regret it! So if it’s time to update the look of your patio furniture – grab that fabric swatch from your favorite store and let the decorating begin!
