Have you ever been frustrated with storing outdoor furniture covers during winter? If so, then you are certainly not alone. Many people need help with where to store their protective furniture covers when they aren’t in use, especially in the cold weather.
Fortunately, some simple tips and tricks can help keep them stored safely while keeping your outdoor area organized and looking clean and stylish all year round! Just follow these simple steps to store your outdoor furniture covers properly.
In this blog post, I will let you know how to store outdoor furniture covers – from waterproof fabric to vinyl – so that no matter what kind of cover you have, you can get it tucked away neatly for the season ahead.
What Will You Need?
- A storage Location: This should be a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area. For example, this could be in your garage, attic, or basement.
- Hangers or Hooks: Use bungee cords or rope to suspend the covers from a secure fixture if unavailable.
- Poly Bags: Plastic bags are great for keeping your furniture covers from collecting dust and dirt.
- Tight-fitting Cover: Be sure to get a snug cover to prevent water or moisture from entering.
Once you have these items, you can begin storing your outdoor furniture covers.
10 Easy Steps on How to Store Outdoor Furniture Covers
Step 1: Clean the Covers
Before you start to store your furniture covers, it is important to clean them first. This will prevent any potential mold or mildew from growing on them while they are in storage. If you have fabric covers, use an upholstery cleaner or a mild detergent to clean them. For vinyl covers, use a mild cleaner and warm water.
Step 2: Dry the Covers
Once you have cleaned the covers, ensure they are scorched before storing them away. Hang them outside in an area that gets lots of sunlight and allow them to air dry for several hours. You can use a clothesline to hang them up or lay them out on a drying rack.
Step 3: Fold the Covers
Once the covers are clean and dry, fold them carefully to occupy less space in your storage area. Start by laying them flat on a surface, then fold them inward from the top, bottom, and sides. Make sure they are folded tightly so there are no wrinkles or creases.
Step 4: Stuff the Covers
If you have fabric covers, it is a good idea to stuff them with tissue paper before storing them away. This will help prevent any creasing or wrinkling of the material while in storage. You can also use an old pillowcase or a quilt to protect your covers further.
Step 5: Hang the Covers
If you are using hangers or hooks, hang the furniture covers up in your storage area. Ensure they are properly secured and cannot slip off the hanger. If you do not have any hangers handy, use bungee cords or rope to suspend your covers from a secure fixture.
Step 6: Use Poly Bags
Once the covers are hung up, place them in poly bags and seal them shut. This will help remove dust and dirt while the furniture is in storage. Ensure the bag is tight fitting so that no moisture can get in and damage your covers.
Step 7: Label the Covers
Label each cover with a description of what it is and where you store it. This will make it easier to find them when you need them next season. You can also add a reminder on the label about when to take your furniture out of storage so that you remember!
Step 8: Find a Good Spot for Storage
Choose a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to store your furniture covers. This could be in your basement, attic, or garage. Make sure that your location is away from any direct light sources, as this can fade or damage the material over time.
Step 9: Put Your Covers in Place
Carefully place your furniture covers into their storage location. Make sure that they are neatly folded and stored away so you can easily find them later. Consider using an organizer or system to track where all your covers are stored.
Step 10: Enjoy an Uncluttered Outdoor Area
Once you’ve stored away your furniture covers, you can enjoy an uncluttered outdoor area. You’ll be able to sit back and relax, knowing that your furniture is safely tucked away for the winter months. Plus, when the time comes to use them again, they will be easy to find and ready for you to enjoy!
By following these simple, straightforward steps, you can rest assured that your outdoor furniture covers will be preserved in the best possible condition, ready for use in the subsequent seasons. Proper storage prolongs the lifespan of your covers and maintains the aesthetics of your outdoor space, saving you the hassle and cost of frequent replacements.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Consider investing in storage bags specifically designed for outdoor furniture covers, as these bags will help keep the covers dry and free of dirt and debris.
- If you do not have access to a garage or shed, consider investing in a waterproof cover for your furniture. This will help protect it from the elements and ensure it lasts longer.
- When storing the covers, ensure they are dry before putting them away. If you leave them damp, it can cause mildew and mold to form on the material.
- Before storing the furniture cover for a prolonged period, make sure to check it for any tears or holes so that they can be patched up before use.
- Check the furniture cover each season for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary. This will help to ensure that your outdoor furniture remains protected from the elements year after year.
No matter how you store your outdoor furniture covers, the most important thing is that you take steps to protect them from moisture, dirt, and debris. Taking the time to store your covers properly can help prolong their lifespan and ensure that your outdoor furniture stays its best for years to come.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Don’t store the covers in direct sunlight, as this can cause them to fade and deteriorate over time.
- Avoid storing your furniture covers near any source of heat or flame, as this can leave them vulnerable to fire damage.
- Do not leave the covers exposed to harsh weather conditions such as snow, rain, or strong winds, which can lead to damage.
- Don’t store your furniture cover in an area where it could be exposed to rodents or other pests, as this can cause holes and damage to the material.
- Avoid storing the covers for too long without checking them for signs of wear and tear. This will help to extend their life and keep your outdoor furniture looking its best.
By avoiding these potential pitfalls and storing your outdoor furniture covers properly, you can help ensure that they stay in good condition for years to come. This will help to extend the life of your outdoor furniture and make sure that it stays looking its best.
How Do You Care for Outdoor Furniture Covers?
Proper care of your outdoor furniture covers can help to keep them in good condition and extend their life. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your furniture covers:
- Clean the covers regularly with a soft cloth dampened with warm, soapy water. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated over time.
- You can spot clean with a mild detergent and warm water for tougher stains. Make sure to rinse the cover thoroughly after cleaning.
- If your furniture cover is machine washable, follow the instructions on the care label to ensure it is washed properly and does not shrink or fade in color.
- Air drying your furniture cover is best but keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Consider using a protectant spray on the cover every six months or so to help keep it looking its best. This will also help extend its life and prevent fading or discoloration.
By taking care of your outdoor furniture covers and cleaning them regularly, you can help to extend their life and keep your furniture looking its best. This will ensure that your outdoor space looks amazing for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, properly storing outdoor furniture covers is an important aspect of caring for your furniture and keeping it in good condition. By following the tips on how to store outdoor furniture covers, you’ll enjoy the look of your outdoor furniture even longer.
Remember, when you don’t store outdoor furniture covers correctly, that’s when problems start to occur. Suppose you are too busy or unable to store them yourself.
In that case, many local companies provide professional storage services at a reasonable cost, so you can be worry free knowing your furniture is being taken care of with integrated and efficient solutions.
To ensure your outdoor furniture looks its best all year round, don’t wait any longer – start researching or reach out to a professional now!
