How to Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture for Winter: Expert Tips from Dragonstone Construction LLC

As the temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to start thinking about how to protect your outdoor furniture from the harsh winter elements. Properly cleaning and storing your patio furniture before winter can help extend its life and ensure it’s ready to use when warmer weather returns. At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we specialize in handyman services in Branson, Hollister, and Kimberling City, helping homeowners keep their outdoor spaces in top condition all year round.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean and store your outdoor furniture to ensure it’s protected from winter weather.

Step 1: Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly

Before storing your outdoor furniture, it’s important to give it a good cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and mildew that may have built up over the summer. Cleaning it before storage will help prevent damage and make it easier to set up again in the spring.

How to Clean Different Types of Furniture:

• Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron):
  Use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water with a soft cloth or sponge. Scrub the surface gently, and for any rust spots, use a wire brush or sandpaper. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry the furniture completely to prevent rust.

• Wood Furniture (Teak, Cedar, Eucalyptus):
  Wood furniture requires special care. Use a mixture of mild soap and water, and scrub with a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip the wood. After cleaning, dry the furniture thoroughly and apply a protective sealant or wood oil to keep the wood in good condition over the winter.

• Plastic or Resin Furniture:
  Plastic or resin furniture is easy to clean with a mixture of dish soap and water. Scrub it down, then rinse and dry completely to prevent mold and mildew from forming during storage.

• Wicker Furniture:
  Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean wicker furniture. For deeper cleaning, use a mixture of water and mild soap. Be sure to dry wicker thoroughly, as moisture can cause it to warp or rot during the winter months.

If you need assistance with cleaning or repairs before storing your furniture, Dragonstone Construction LLC offers affordable handyman services to help homeowners prepare their outdoor spaces for the winter.

Step 2: Protect and Repair Before Storing

After cleaning your furniture, inspect it for any damage or areas that need repair. Addressing small issues now can save you from bigger problems when it’s time to bring your furniture back out in the spring.

• Tighten Loose Bolts and Screws:
  Check all screws, bolts, and fasteners. Tighten anything that’s loose to ensure your furniture remains sturdy.

• Repair Rust or Damage:
  If you spot any rust on metal furniture, sand it down and touch it up with rust-resistant paint. For wood furniture, apply a protective sealant to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage over the winter.

• Cushions and Fabrics:
  Wash outdoor cushions according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and allow them to dry completely before storing. Consider storing cushions in airtight containers or storage bags to protect them from moisture and mildew during the winter months.

Need help repairing or preparing your furniture for storage? Our handyman services at Dragonstone Construction LLC can assist with minor repairs, refinishing, or any last-minute fixes.

Step 3: Store Your Furniture Properly

Once your furniture is clean and repaired, it’s time to store it safely for the winter. Proper storage will protect your furniture from snow, rain, and freezing temperatures, ensuring it stays in great condition for years to come.

• Cover Your Furniture:
  If you don’t have indoor storage space, use high-quality, weatherproof furniture covers to protect your pieces from the elements. Make sure the covers fit snugly and are secured to prevent wind from blowing them off.

• Store Indoors If Possible:
  If you have the space, storing furniture indoors in a garage, shed, or basement is the best way to protect it from winter weather. Stack chairs and tables to save space, and keep cushions in airtight containers to prevent moisture damage.

• Protect Furniture Left Outside:
  If your furniture must remain outside, elevate it slightly off the ground using wood blocks or pallets to prevent it from sitting in snow or rain. This prevents moisture from pooling under the furniture and causing damage.

Our team at Dragonstone Construction LLC can help with outdoor storage solutions, including moving heavy furniture or covering pieces securely to withstand winter storms. Contact us for help with preparing your outdoor space.

Step 4: Store Grills, Fire Pits, and Other Accessories

In addition to furniture, remember to clean and store outdoor grills, fire pits, and accessories:

• Grills:
  Clean your grill by removing any grease or food particles. Disconnect the propane tank and store it in a well-ventilated area. Cover the grill with a weatherproof cover or store it indoors.

• Fire Pits:
  Remove ashes and debris from the fire pit. Cover the pit with a weatherproof cover to protect it from rust or moisture.

• Accessories:
  Store smaller items like outdoor rugs, umbrellas, and lanterns indoors to prevent damage.

Why Choose Dragonstone Construction LLC?

At Dragonstone Construction LLC, we provide reliable handyman services to help homeowners in Branson, Hollister, and Kimberling City prepare for every season. Whether you need help cleaning, repairing, or storing your outdoor furniture, our team is ready to assist with affordable, professional solutions.

• Professional Expertise: We ensure your outdoor space is well-prepared for the winter season.

• Local Service: We proudly serve Branson, Hollister, Kimberling City, and surrounding areas.

• Affordable Handyman Services: We offer competitive pricing to fit your budget.

Contact Us Today!

Don’t wait until the last minute to protect your outdoor furniture from winter weather. Contact Dragonstone Construction LLC today for expert help with cleaning, repairs, and storage solutions. Let us handle the heavy lifting while you enjoy peace of mind knowing your outdoor space is ready for winter!