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Are you searching for the best ways to protect your patio furniture during the off-season? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for great patio furniture covers and ways to prepare your backyard for the upcoming winter season.


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As the winter chill approaches, it’s time to think about safeguarding your outdoor backyard oasis.

Your patio furniture, which has served as the perfect spot for summer lounging and al fresco dining, now faces the harsh realities of cold temperatures, snow, and ice.

To keep your investment in top shape for many seasons to come, finding the right patio furniture covers is key.

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To help you find the best ideas for your home, we’ll explore some patio furniture cover ideas to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements, ensuring it remains as stylish and functional as the day you bought it.

Whether you’re dealing with a mild winter or preparing for a heavy snowfall, we’ve got you covered – literally.

So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s get your backyard ready for winter while also finding some great patio furniture covers today!


10 Tips to Protect Your Backyard Oasis with Patio Furniture Covers 2




1. Clean Your Backyard Patio Furniture Thoroughly

Before covering your patio furniture for the winter, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning.

Dirt, debris, and moisture left on surfaces can cause mildew, rust, and other damage when trapped under a cover.

Cleaning Furniture Before Adding Patio Furniture Covers


Start by wiping down cushions and fabric items with a mild detergent and water, then allow them to dry completely.

For metal and wooden furniture, use a specialized cleaner to remove any grime or stains.

This step ensures your furniture will be in pristine condition when you uncover it in the spring.


2. Repair Any Patio Furniture Damage Before Covering

Inspect your patio furniture for any signs of wear and tear before storing it for the winter.

Tighten loose screws, replace missing bolts, and repair any cracks or chips in the wood or metal.

Repairing Outdoor Items Before Adding Patio Furniture Covers


If you notice any rust spots on metal furniture, treat them with a rust remover and touch them up with paint if necessary.

Addressing these issues now will prevent them from worsening over the winter months, extending the life of your outdoor furniture.


3. Apply Protective Treatments Before Covering Your Patio Furniture for the Winter

To add an extra layer of defense against the harsh winter elements, consider applying protective treatments to your patio furniture.

For wooden furniture, use a water-repellent sealer to prevent moisture damage.

Apply Protective Elements Before Adding Patio Furniture Covers


Metal furniture can benefit from a rust-resistant spray, while wicker and rattan items might need a special preservative to maintain their flexibility and strength.

These treatments help your furniture resist the damaging effects of cold, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures.


4. Choose the Right Patio Furniture Covers

Not all patio furniture covers are created equal.

When selecting patio furniture covers, look for those that are specifically designed for winter protection.

Look for materials that are waterproof, UV-resistant, and breathable to prevent condensation from building up underneath.

Patio Furniture Covers


The cover should fit snugly over your furniture, with reinforced seams and tie-downs or elastic hems to keep it secure during strong winds and heavy snowfall.

Investing in high-quality covers will provide peace of mind throughout the winter season.


5. Elevate Patio Furniture Off the Ground

Keeping your patio furniture elevated can help prevent moisture from seeping into the legs and causing damage.

Use furniture risers, bricks, or even wooden blocks to lift your pieces off the ground.

This is especially important for wooden and metal furniture, as prolonged contact with wet or icy surfaces can lead to rot and rust.

Elevating your furniture also allows air to circulate underneath, reducing the risk of mold and mildew buildup.


6. Store Patio Cushions and Fabrics Indoors

While outdoor furniture covers protect the structure of your furniture, cushions and other fabric items should be stored indoors whenever possible.

Fabrics are more susceptible to moisture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.

Protect Cushions with Patio Furniture Covers


Clean and dry your cushions before storing them in a dry, climate-controlled area, such as a garage or basement.

If indoor storage isn’t an option, use specialized storage bags that are waterproof and breathable to keep them safe from the elements.


7. Disassemble Large Outdoor Furniture Pieces if Possible

If you have large or cumbersome patio furniture, consider disassembling it before covering or storing it for the winter.

This makes it easier to protect all surfaces and reduces the chances of wind damage.

Disassemble Patio Furniture


Disassembling also allows you to store the pieces more compactly, freeing up space in your storage area.

Be sure to keep all screws, bolts, and small parts in a labeled bag, so reassembly in the spring is a breeze.


8. Secure Patio Furniture Covers Against Wind and Snow

Once your patio furniture is cleaned, treated, and covered, make sure the covers are securely fastened.

Wind and snow can easily dislodge loose covers, exposing your furniture to the elements.

Secure Patio Furniture Covers


Use bungee cords, tie-down straps, or even heavy-duty clamps to keep covers in place.

Some covers come with built-in securing options, but adding extra reinforcements can provide additional peace of mind, especially in areas prone to severe winter weather.


9. Check on Your Outdoor Furniture Periodically

Don’t assume that once your furniture is covered, it can be forgotten until spring.

Periodically check on your patio furniture throughout the winter season.

Check on Backyard Patio Furniture Seasonally


Look for any signs of damage to the covers, such as tears or leaks, and inspect underneath to ensure moisture hasn’t seeped in.

Regular checks allow you to address potential issues before they cause significant damage, ensuring your furniture remains protected all winter long.


10. Move Furniture to a Protected Area

If you have the space, consider moving your patio furniture to a more sheltered location, such as a garage, shed, or under a covered patio.

Even with high-quality patio furniture covers, moving furniture out of direct exposure to snow and ice can provide an extra layer of protection.

Move Patio Furniture Under Protected Area


This is particularly important for more delicate pieces, like glass tabletops or lightweight aluminum chairs, which may be more vulnerable to winter weather.

Storing your furniture in a protected area will ensure it stays in the best possible condition until you’re ready to enjoy it again in the spring.


10 Tips to Protect Your Backyard Oasis with Patio Furniture Covers 1




Final thoughts

By taking the time to properly clean, protect, and store your patio furniture, you can ensure that it remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Winter weather can be harsh, but with the right covers, treatments, and precautions, your outdoor furniture will be ready to welcome the warmth of spring without a hitch.

Following these steps not only preserves the beauty and functionality of your investment but also saves you time and money in the long run.

So, as the colder months approach, make sure your patio furniture is well-prepared to withstand whatever winter has in store.



Are you ready for winter? Here are some fun wall art prints to keep the inside of your home looking great this season. Grab your printables for free below!


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Your turn

Are you getting ready for the winter season and searching for ways to protect your backyard oasis? Which of these backyard preparation and patio furniture covers are your favorite ideas? Let me know in the comments.

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21 Comments

  1. Didn’t even know you could get covers for all of these items, thanks for sharing!

    1. Hi Liv!

      There are so many choices for fall patio furniture covers. With winter right around the corner – I wanted to be ready!

      Thanks for reading!

  2. I can’t tell you how many times I have forget over the years to cover my patio set. I love these ideas and honestly didn’t know that there was an egg chair cover. Thank you for sharing this.

    1. Hi Tamara!

      I know what you mean about forgetting to cover patio furniture sets up. Before I invested in fall patio furniture covers – I always forget as well. I love egg chairs and was excited to share about these furniture cover options, too.

      Thanks for reading!

  3. We are adding an outdoor fountain to our backyard. Love them! I am also on the hunt for patio furniture covers so this article came at a great time!

    1. Hi Brooke!

      I’m excited you found some fall patio furniture cover ideas. Although I don’t have an outdoor fountain, I was excited to share that Sunnydaze Decor has this to offer.

      Thanks for reading!

  4. I have the opposite problem where my outdoor furniture gets ruined by scorching sun (Australia!) so these would also be very useful for summer weather. I didn’t know you could get all these different shapes, thanks for sharing the information

  5. Great article! I appreciate the detailed explanation of the different types of patio furniture covers and their benefits. The tips on how to properly clean and maintain the covers were also very helpful. I feel more confident in choosing the right cover for my patio furniture now. Thank you!

  6. Those are some wonderful selection of patio furniture covers for different kinds of furnitures. Thanks for sharing this informative post with us.

  7. Stephanie says:

    I’ve neglected my outdoor furniture for too long! Definitely checking out the furniture covers you recommend.

  8. I’ll get a patio when I buy my forever home. I feel much more confident now that I know winter-proof covers are available. Winter in Scotland can be a disaster.

  9. I like the idea of having a cover for the odd sized furniture. It makes a difference in how long your furniture lasts and how pretty it looks.

  10. Very helpful and informative post. We also neglect our outdoor stuff during the winter days. Right now, our trampoline is covered with snow…

  11. It is a cool article. Our furniture is covered with snow too… This summer we plan to remodel the backyard and patio. So definitely we will buy covers for new furniture. Thank you for idea!

  12. I wish we have a waterfall in our house or garden but will keep that in mind for the future in case we get one. These are good things to have to them safe.

  13. I’m shopping for patio furniture and accessories right now, so this was super helpful! I have a fountain, and I’ve been looking for a high quality cover for the winter months. Definitely going to be checking out some of these options!

  14. I like houses with outdoor furniture for sitting around and hanging out. The downside is its hard to maintain it, but thanks for these tips it should be done easier.

  15. The first time I see about the covers for things in this post. I haven’t thought of such those covers since items are used or cleaned later.

  16. Being in Southern California, the biggest issue will be sun beating on our chairs. Having some kind of cover really makes a difference because then the cover gets beat up instead of the chair.

  17. bright loveland snow says:

    As winter is at the corner, patio furniture cover will be the best for the weather. thanks for sharing

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