Properly storing metal lawn furniture is essential to prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance. Exposure to the elements can lead to rust, fading, and overall wear, making it crucial to take steps to protect your investment.
Whether you’re preparing for winter or just looking to preserve your furniture during periods of non-use, following the right storage practices will ensure your pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come. In this article, we discuss how to store metal lawn furniture.
Why Proper Storage is Important?
Properly storing your metal lawn furniture has several benefits, including the following:
Preventing Rust and Corrosion:
When left out in the elements, metal furniture can easily develop rust, especially if it’s not properly coated or painted. Storing your furniture indoors will protect it from moisture and reduce the likelihood of rust forming.
Extending Lifespan:
Properly storing your furniture can significantly extend its lifespan. By protecting it from harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and other potential damage, you can ensure that your furniture stays in good condition for years to come.
Saving Space:
Metal lawn furniture can take up a lot of space if left outdoors. Storing your furniture indoors during the off-season will free up valuable space on your patio or deck for other activities or furniture.
Maintaining Aesthetics:
Properly storing your metal lawn furniture will help maintain its appearance. When left outside, furniture can fade and become discolored due to exposure to the sun and weather conditions. Storing your furniture indoors will prevent this from happening and keep it looking new for longer.
Protecting Against Theft:
Leaving expensive metal lawn furniture outside can make it an easy target for thieves. By storing your furniture indoors, you can protect it from potential theft and keep it safe.
Saving Space:
Storing your metal lawn furniture indoors during the colder months also helps save space in your yard or patio. This allows for more room to add other activities or furniture, making your outdoor space more functional and versatile.
Needed Tools and Materials
To properly store your metal lawn furniture indoors, you will need a few tools and materials. These may include:
- Protective Covers or Blankets
- Bubble Wrap or Packing Material
- Large Storage Containers or Plastic Bags
- Furniture Dolly or Cart for Easy Transportation
9 Steps on How to Store Metal Lawn Furniture
Step 1: Clean and Prepare Furniture
Before storing your metal lawn furniture, it is important to clean and prepare it properly to prevent damage during storage. Start by wiping down each piece with a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, and debris. For tougher stains or spots, use a mild soap mixed with water and gently scrub the affected areas.
Once clean, make sure all pieces are completely dry to avoid any moisture buildup, which can lead to rust or corrosion. Inspect the furniture for any signs of damage, such as chipped paint or loose screws, and address these issues before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Disassemble if Possible
If your furniture can be disassembled, take it apart to make storage more manageable and protect individual components from damage. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or assembly guide if needed to ensure proper disassembly without causing harm to the structure. Keep all hardware, like screws and bolts, in a labeled container or bag to avoid losing them.
Smaller, detachable parts such as cushions or tabletop glass should be stored separately in protective covers or padding to prevent scratches or breakage. Disassembling your furniture not only saves space but also helps preserve its condition during storage.
Step 3: Wrap Individual Pieces
Once your furniture is disassembled, take the time to wrap each piece individually to protect it during storage. Use materials like furniture blankets, bubble wrap, or thick padding to cover all surfaces, especially edges and corners, which are most prone to damage. Securing the wrapping with tape or stretch film can keep it in place and prevent it from shifting.
For delicate materials such as wood or glass, ensure an additional layer of protection to safeguard against scratches or cracks. Properly wrapping your furniture not only extends its lifespan but also guarantees that everything remains in good condition until it is ready to be reassembled.
Step 4: Choose the Right Storage Space
Selecting the appropriate storage space is crucial to maintaining the quality and condition of your furniture. Start by considering the size of the unit you’ll need—ensure it can accommodate all your items without overstuffing. For sensitive furniture, such as antiques or items made from wood or leather, opting for a climate-controlled storage space is highly recommended to prevent damage caused by humidity or fluctuating temperatures.
Additionally, assess the security measures of the storage facility, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, or on-site personnel, to ensure your belongings are safe. Choosing the right storage space provides peace of mind and ensures your furniture remains protected until you’re ready to use it again.
Step 5: Use Covers or Tarps
Protecting your furniture with covers or tarps is essential to safeguard it from dust, dirt, and potential scratches while in storage. Use breathable materials to cover your items, as they help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew.
Avoid using plastic directly on furniture, especially on wooden or upholstered pieces, as it can trap condensation and cause damage. Properly covering your belongings ensures they stay clean and in excellent condition until they’re ready to be used again.
Step 6: Store Vertically if Possible
When storing furniture, consider positioning items vertically to maximize space and reduce the risk of damage. For example, couches, mattresses, or large tabletops can often be stored upright to save floor space and allow better airflow around the storage area.
Make sure to secure these items properly to prevent tipping or falling, which could cause scratches or structural harm. Using padded supports or straps can help keep your furniture stable and protected during storage. Storing things vertically not only optimizes the available storage area but also keeps your belongings organized and accessible.
Step 7: Clean Before Storing
Before placing any items into storage, it is essential to clean them thoroughly. Dust, dirt, or grime left on furniture, appliances, or other belongings can attract pests or lead to unpleasant odors over time. Use appropriate cleaning materials for each item—for instance, wood furniture can benefit from a gentle polish, while upholstery may require vacuuming or spot-cleaning.
Ensure that everything is completely dry before storage to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Taking the time to clean your belongings beforehand not only protects them while in storage but also ensures they are fresh and ready for use when retrieved.
Step 8: Check on Furniture Periodically
Even with proper storage techniques, it’s important to periodically check on your metal lawn furniture while in storage. This will allow you to catch any potential issues early on and address them before they become bigger problems.
Following these steps on how to store metal lawn furniture will help ensure that your metal lawn furniture lasts for many years to come. By properly cleaning, storing, and maintaining it, you can enjoy its durability and style whenever you bring it out for use. So go ahead and invest in some quality metal lawn furniture – with these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make the most out of your investment.
Additional Tips
- If possible, store your metal lawn furniture indoors during the winter months to provide extra protection from harsh weather conditions.
- Consider investing in a cover or tarp specifically designed for outdoor furniture to use during storage.
- Before storing your metal lawn furniture, make sure it is completely dry and free of any debris.
- If you notice any signs of rust or corrosion, try using a mild soap-and-water mixture or a specialized metal cleaner to remove it. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface of your furniture.
- If you plan on painting or refinishing your metal lawn furniture after storage, make sure to prep the surface by sanding and cleaning it before applying any new finish.
- Don’t forget about other accessories such as cushions or umbrellas, that may also need proper storage and maintenance during the off-season. Make sure to clean and properly store these items as well to ensure they last for many seasons.
- Finally, if you plan on storing your metal lawn furniture outside during the winter months, consider investing in covers or tarps to protect them from harsh weather conditions. These covers can also help prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on your furniture, making it easier to clean and maintain in the future.
Conclusion
By following these steps on how to store metal lawn furniture, you can ensure that your metal lawn furniture will stay in great condition while in storage. With proper cleaning, protection, and periodic checks, you can enjoy using your outdoor furniture for many seasons to come.
So when it’s time to bring out your patio set again, you can be confident that it will be ready for use with minimal effort! Keep these tips in mind and enjoy your beautiful outdoor space all year round. Happy storing!