Patio Furniture Care: Make It Last Season After Season

TL;DR: Outdoor furniture takes a beating from sun, rain, and rust. Four habits keep it looking good for years.

_Last reviewed: July 2026 · 2 min read_

Patio furniture lives outside in sun, rain, and humidity, so a little care goes a long way toward keeping it from fading, rusting, and rotting. Four habits do the job: clean before storing, cover it the right way, protect the cushions, and stay ahead of rust.

Should I clean patio furniture before storing it?

Yes — clean it thoroughly before storing. Dirt, pollen, food residue, and mildew left on furniture over the off-season stain and degrade it. Wash each material appropriately (mild soap and water works for most), let it dry completely, and store it clean. Putting it away dirty just bakes the grime in until spring.

What's the best way to cover patio furniture?

Use breathable covers, not plastic tarps. A sealed plastic tarp traps moisture underneath, which causes mildew, rust, and rot — the opposite of what you want. Breathable, water-resistant covers shed rain while letting trapped humidity escape. Make sure covers are secured so wind doesn't pull them off.

Where should I store cushions?

Store cushions indoors or in a dry, sealed bin. Fabric cushions soak up moisture and grow mildew fast if left out. A deck box or storage bin keeps them dry between uses, and indoors over winter is best. Damp cushions are the most common thing people ruin by leaving them exposed.

How do I deal with rust on metal frames?

Touch up rust spots promptly on metal frames — sand the spot, prime it, and repaint with an outdoor metal paint before the rust spreads. Catching a small rust spot early stops it from eating through the frame. Store metal furniture dry to slow rust in the first place.

Track seasonal storage

Noting when you cleaned and stored each piece keeps the routine on track. Okoniq Property Hub keeps it with your home maintenance records in one private place. Pair it with deck resealing for a full outdoor refresh.

Frequently asked questions

How do I store patio furniture for winter?

Clean and dry it, store cushions inside, and either move furniture to a garage/shed or cover it with breathable covers. Stack or secure lightweight pieces so wind can't toss them.

How do I clean outdoor cushions?

Most use mild soap and water with a soft brush; check the care tag. Let them dry fully in the sun before storing to prevent mildew.

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FAQ

How often should I clean my patio furniture during the summer?

Wipe down surfaces every 2-4 weeks during active use to prevent dirt and pollen buildup, and do a deeper clean with soap and water at least once mid-season before grime sets in.

Can I leave wicker or rattan furniture outside all year?

Natural wicker and rattan should not stay outdoors through winter—they absorb moisture and rot quickly. Synthetic resin wicker handles weather better but still benefits from covered or indoor storage.

What should I do if my patio furniture cushions already smell musty?

Wash them with a mix of one part white vinegar to four parts water, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely in direct sun—sunlight kills mold spores and eliminates odor.

Does aluminum patio furniture rust like steel or iron?

Aluminum does not rust, but it can corrode and develop white oxidation spots in humid or salty air—clean with mild soap, dry fully, and apply a car wax once a year to protect the finish.