How To Cover Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture transforms your yard, patio, or porch into a comfortable retreat. But as every homeowner knows, keeping it in great shape requires care and attention. One of the most effective ways to preserve its beauty and longevity is by learning how to cover outdoor furniture correctly. Whether you’re protecting your set from rain, snow, or harsh sunlight, the right approach ensures your investment stays in pristine condition for many years.

Why Covering Outdoor Furniture Matters

Outdoor furniture faces constant exposure to the elements. Sunlight fades colors, moisture leads to mildew, and debris can cause stains or scratches. Even the strongest materials like teak, aluminum, or HDPE benefit from protection when not in use. Proper covers prevent moisture buildup, block UV rays, and keep dirt away, reducing the need for frequent cleaning or costly repairs. Covering isn’t just about appearance—it’s about preserving structure and comfort.

Choosing the Right Covers for Your Furniture

The first step in learning how to cover outdoor furniture is selecting the right cover. Not all covers are created equal. Look for weatherproof materials such as polyester with PVC backing, or marine-grade fabrics designed to resist water and sunlight. Breathable covers are essential because they allow air to circulate while keeping rain out, preventing mold and mildew. Choose covers with adjustable straps or drawstrings to keep them secure during windy conditions. A properly fitted cover should drape over your furniture without touching the ground to allow air movement underneath.

Preparing Furniture Before Covering

Before putting on covers, always clean and dry your furniture thoroughly. Dirt, pollen, or moisture trapped underneath can lead to stains and odors over time. For wood furniture, a mild soap and water rinse followed by a protective oil helps seal the surface. Metal furniture benefits from a quick wipe with a rust-preventive cloth. Cushions should be brushed off and stored inside if possible. Taking a few minutes to prepare furniture before covering ensures better results and prevents long-term damage.

How Professionals Cover Outdoor Furniture

Professional builders and outdoor living experts use specific techniques to keep furniture protected year-round. They always ensure covers fit snugly but not too tight, as tension can cause seams to tear. Some use lightweight waterproof tarps for short-term protection but rely on custom covers for long-term care. Elevating furniture slightly off the ground with small risers or rubber pads also helps prevent moisture from pooling beneath. Many professionals even store smaller pieces in garden sheds or covered patios during the winter for added protection.

Best Practices for Different Furniture Materials

Each type of material needs slightly different care when it comes to covering:

Wood Furniture: Use breathable covers and apply sealant or oil once a year to maintain natural oils. Avoid plastic sheets that trap moisture.

Metal Furniture: Choose covers with soft inner linings to prevent scratches. Make sure edges are secured to block water from seeping through seams.

Wicker or Rattan: Synthetic resin wicker holds up well, but covering prevents UV fading. Traditional wicker should always be covered when not in use.

Plastic or HDPE: Durable in most conditions, but covering helps prevent discoloration and cracking in extreme temperatures.

Outdoor Fabrics: Remove cushions when possible and store them indoors. Use waterproof, breathable covers for anything left outside.

Covering Cushions and Upholstery

Cushions and upholstered pieces need extra attention. Even if made from weather-resistant materials, it’s best to store them indoors when not in use for long periods. When you do leave them outside, ensure they are completely dry before covering. Some homeowners use separate cushion storage boxes inside sheds or garages. A dedicated space, such as a prefab structure or deck box, helps extend the life of outdoor fabrics and keeps them free of mildew.

How To Protect Smaller Pieces and Accessories

When thinking about how to cover outdoor furniture, remember to include smaller items like stools, ottomans, and accent tables. These pieces are often overlooked, yet they face the same weather conditions as larger sets. Stack or group similar items together under one large cover if space allows. For extra protection, use microfiber cloths or furniture blankets as a soft barrier between stacked items to prevent scuffs or surface marks.

Storing Furniture Indoors During Harsh Weather

For areas with severe winters, storing furniture indoors is ideal. Prefab sheds and storage units provide a convenient and secure way to keep your outdoor pieces safe. Hartville Outdoor Products offers several solutions, including high-quality sheds that double as storage and workspace areas. These buildings are designed to handle Ohio weather and keep your investment in perfect condition year after year. When combined with proper covering, this approach guarantees your outdoor furniture stays looking new for much longer.

Example of Protected Quality: The 2′ Cont Glider

Take, for instance, the 2′ Cont Glider from Hartville Outdoor Products. This comfortable, stylish glider is built to last, but it still benefits from proper covering and storage during heavy rain or snow. A breathable, fitted cover keeps its surfaces clean, prevents moisture from pooling in the seat, and protects its smooth finish. With consistent care, this glider remains as beautiful and comfortable as the day you bought it, ready for relaxing evenings on the patio every spring.

Avoiding Common Covering Mistakes

Even the best covers can fail if used incorrectly. Avoid using non-breathable plastic tarps for long periods, as they trap humidity and lead to mildew. Don’t tie covers too tightly, which can cause tears during high winds. Make sure covers extend past the furniture edges but still leave a small gap near the bottom for airflow. Check your covers periodically, especially after storms, to remove debris or puddled water. Taking a few minutes to inspect your setup can make a huge difference in the longevity of your furniture.

Seasonal Care Tips

Each season brings unique challenges for outdoor furniture. In summer, use covers during long periods of heat to prevent fading. In fall, clear away leaves and dirt before covering to avoid staining. Winter calls for full coverage or indoor storage, while spring is the perfect time to clean covers and check for any signs of wear. Rotating covers occasionally also helps ensure even exposure to the elements and prevents premature wear along one side.

Expert Advice from HGTV

According to HGTV, covering outdoor furniture is one of the simplest and most effective ways to extend its life. Their experts recommend investing in well-fitted covers made from durable fabrics and cleaning furniture before covering it for long periods. They also emphasize storing cushions separately and using breathable materials to prevent moisture buildup. Following these recommendations ensures your outdoor furniture remains both functional and beautiful season after season.

Why Proper Covering Extends Furniture Life

Consistent covering and storage habits dramatically extend the lifespan of outdoor furniture. Without proper protection, even high-quality pieces can deteriorate within a few years. Sun exposure causes fading, moisture weakens joints, and debris leads to scratches. Covering prevents all of these issues while also reducing the frequency of deep cleaning. Over time, the small effort of covering and storing your furniture pays off in saved money and a patio that always looks inviting and well-kept.

Conclusion

Knowing how to cover outdoor furniture correctly is key to protecting your investment and keeping your outdoor space beautiful. Choose breathable, weather-resistant covers, clean your furniture before storing, and make sure every piece, big or small, has protection from the elements. For the best results, pair your covering efforts with a reliable storage solution. Whether you’re caring for a simple garden bench or a luxurious 2′ Cont Glider, proper maintenance ensures your outdoor furniture lasts through every season.

Need help selecting covers or upgrading your outdoor setup? Contact Hartville Outdoor Products today. Our team can help you choose high-quality, weather-ready pieces and storage options that fit your lifestyle and outdoor space perfectly.