Should You Cover Outdoor Furniture in Winter?
When you’re swapping sun hats for scarves, don’t forget your outdoor corner sofas. Short answer: yes — cover them. Without protection, winter’s rain, mould and fading will have a field day. Want yours looking fabulous for spring BBQs? Keep reading for the easy hacks to save your garden furniture.
Should You Cover Your Outdoor Furniture in Winter?
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth covering your garden furniture for the winter months, here’s the honest answer: it absolutely is.
Whether you’ve got a sleek outdoor corner sofa, a rustic teak bench, or a trendy rattan dining set, winter weather can do more harm than you think.
British winters are unpredictable — one day it’s freezing rain, the next it’s windy and damp. And let’s be honest, most of us aren’t nipping out in December to wipe bird muck off the patio set.
A simple cover saves you from headaches, hassle, and having to fork out for replacements when the sun finally shows its face again.
Benefits of Covering Outdoor Furniture in Winter
Protection from Snow, Ice, and Freezing Rain
Snow and ice might make your garden look like a Christmas card — but your furniture sees it differently.
When water sneaks into joints or cracks and freezes, it expands. That’s bad news for wooden tables, metal frames and even wicker sets.
Picture that lovely outdoor corner sofa cracking or warping just when BBQ season rolls around.
A good cover keeps moisture firmly out and avoids expensive surprises later.
Preventing Moisture Damage and Mildew
It’s no secret — British winters are soggy.
And damp furniture is a magnet for mildew, mould and all things grim.
Outdoor cushions, wooden slats and fabric trims soak up water like a sponge.
One homeowner I spoke to recently pulled back her cushions in March to discover a patchwork of green mould — not exactly inviting for spring drinks.
A breathable cover keeps damp out, but lets trapped moisture escape too. Best of both worlds.
Shielding from Debris and Animal Droppings
Between falling leaves, passing birds and the occasional mischief-making squirrel, winter debris builds up fast.
If you’ve ever spent a morning scrubbing bird droppings off a garden chair, you’ll know how tedious it can be.
Covers make life simpler.
Whip them off in spring and everything’s clean and ready — no deep cleaning or sanding needed.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Furniture
The less your furniture faces harsh weather, the longer it lasts — simple as that.
Cracks, fading, rust and mould all creep in when furniture is left exposed.
Covers keep colours vibrant, frames strong and surfaces smooth for years to come.
Your bank balance will thank you too — fewer replacements and repairs.
Which Furniture Benefits Most from Winter Covers?
Wood Furniture
Wood, whether it’s pine, acacia or teak, always benefits from a cover.
Softwoods like pine are particularly thirsty and soak up water, which leads to swelling, splitting or rot.
Even tough hardwoods like teak can discolour and warp over time if left exposed.
A snug cover keeps rain off and helps maintain those rich wood tones you love.
Wicker and Rattan Furniture
Natural wicker and rattan furniture look stunning on patios — but they don’t take kindly to winter damp.
Moisture weakens the fibres, leading to cracking and brittleness.
Even synthetic rattan (which handles weather better) has small crevices where water and dirt settle.
A cover stops grime building up and keeps the weave in good shape.
Furniture with Fabric Components
This is where outdoor corner sofas and padded loungers really need TLC.
Cushions and fabrics soak up rain fast, even if labelled ‘weather-resistant’.
Left to sit wet for months, you’ll often end up with mouldy patches and faded colours.
It’s best to bring cushions indoors over winter. But if that’s not possible, a cover is your cushion’s best friend.
Choosing the Right Winter Covers
Breathable and Water-Resistant Materials
The best covers strike a balance — they keep rain out but still let air flow.
Look for fabrics that are water-resistant and breathable.
Polyester covers with PVC backing, or woven fabrics with built-in vents, work brilliantly.
They prevent condensation from building underneath, which is key for mould prevention.
Proper Fit and Securing Methods
A loose, flapping cover is more nuisance than help.
Opt for covers that fit your furniture’s shape or size closely.
Elasticated hems, drawstrings and tie-down straps stop the wind from whipping the cover away.
It’s worth measuring up before you buy — a snug fit gives the best protection.
Alternative Winter Storage Options
If covering isn’t your style, or you’ve got space to spare, there are other smart options.
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Shed or Garage – Tuck furniture inside if you have the room. Dry and frost-free spaces work best.
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Stack Furniture – Nest chairs and tables together to reduce surface exposure.
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Bring Cushions Indoors – Even if the frames stay outside, cushions last longer inside.
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Elevate Off the Ground – Use bricks or pallets to keep legs out of puddles.
These tricks work wonders, especially if you combine them with a cover for extra peace of mind.
Conclusion
If you want your garden furniture to survive winter looking sharp — cover it.
From wooden benches to outdoor corner sofas, a decent cover saves time, money and headaches when spring rolls around.
Choose the right material, secure it properly, or store it smartly — and you’ll be ready to lounge in style as soon as the sun reappears.
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