As the temperature drops and snowy conditions settle in, homeowners often wonder: is it okay to leave outdoor furniture outside in the winter? This common question has several layers because the answer depends on various factors such as the type of furniture, the materials it’s made from, the severity of the winter weather it’s exposed to, and how well it’s prepared for the season. Whether you have wooden Adirondack chairs, rust-resistant metal lounge sets, or all-weather resin tables, making the best decision requires careful consideration.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about winterizing your outdoor furniture, including material-specific care tips, the best practices for covering furniture, and whether storage is a better choice. By the end of this article, you’ll know the best way to protect your investment while keeping your backyard or patio space ready for spring. So, let’s dive in and explore the dos and don’ts of leaving outdoor furniture outside during the coldest months of the year.
Understanding the Risks of Leaving Outdoor Furniture in Winter
While many types of outdoor furniture are designed to withstand seasonal changes, winter weather can be more aggressive due to snow, freezing temperatures, wind, and humidity. Leaving furniture outside without proper preparation may lead to several issues over time.
Common Risks to Consider
- Moisture Damage: Prolonged exposure to snow and temperature fluctuations can cause freeze-thaw cycles, leading to wood cracking, metal corrosion, and fabric mildew.
- Sun and UV Exposure (Even in Winter): Clear winter days can still expose cushions and plastic furniture to ultraviolet radiation that fades colors and weakens materials.
- Physical Damage from Snow and Ice: Large snow buildup can dent, warp, or even break lightweight frames. Ice can freeze onto surfaces, making furniture difficult to clean or use later.
- Impact on Comfort and Usability: Wet or frozen furniture is neither comfortable nor safe for use during winter months, regardless of durability.
Despite these risks, the durability of modern furniture has increased dramatically. Many manufacturers include weather-resistant or all-weather materials specifically for year-round outdoor exposure. However, durability does not equate to invulnerability, especially over an entire season.
Material Matters: How Different Furniture Types Fare in Winter
No two types of outdoor furniture materials react to winter in the same way. Below is a breakdown of the most common materials, including how they perform during the colder months and what care they require to ensure longevity.
Wooden Outdoor Furniture
Wood furniture, often made with teak, cedar, or eucalyptus, is known for its durability and aesthetic charm. However, even resilient hardwoods can be vulnerable if not properly prepared. Wood naturally absorbs moisture and can swell or crack from freezing if not sealed well.
- Winter Performance: Naturally oily wood like teak fares better, as it repels moisture, while other woods need protective sealants.
- Maintenance Tips:
- Clean thoroughly using mild soap and water before winter arrives.
- Apply a breathable weatherproofing sealant to prevent water absorption.
- Store cushions and fabric accessories indoors.
- Recommendation: Not ideal for winter unless sealed and elevated to improve air circulation and avoid ground moisture.
Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Iron, Wrought Iron)
Metal offers strength and style to outdoor settings, but not all metals respond well to winter conditions. Aluminum is the most winter-friendly due to its rust and corrosion resistance. Iron and steel, especially when untreated, are more vulnerable to freezing and moisture-induced rust formation.
- Winter Performance: Aluminum is safe for winter. Iron will corrode without proper maintenance.
- Maintenance Tips:
- Check for chipped paint or exposed areas on wrought iron.
- If necessary, touch up bare spots with rust-resistant primer and paint.
- Clean before winter to prevent mold or mildew formation around dust buildup.
- Recommendation: Can be left outside if aluminum or rust-resistant. Otherwise, covering or winter storage is recommended.
Plastic and Resin Furniture
Plastic and resin outdoor furniture have become increasingly popular due to their low maintenance and all-weather durability. While they resist corrosion and most moisture damage, cold temperatures can cause brittleness, especially in older or lower-quality products.
- Winter Performance: Resists water, corrosion, and fading. However, subzero temperatures may affect flexibility.
- Maintenance Tips:
- Ensure furniture is tightly assembled; cold weather can cause plastic to contract slightly and pieces may loosen.
- Wipe down before winter to remove dirt that can retain moisture.
- Recommendation: Can safely remain outside during winter with minimal preparation, depending on local climate severity.
Wicker or Rattan Furniture
Traditional wicker (made from natural vines) is not suitable for the winter and will degrade. Modern resin wicker furniture, however, is highly weather-resistant and durable in many climates.
- Winter Performance: Natural wicker is prone to mold and rot. Resin wicker is less vulnerable.
- Maintenance Tips:
- If resin wicker: Clean with soapy water and soft brush before freezing.
- If natural wicker: Store indoors to prevent breakdown.
- Recommendation: Resin wicker furniture can stay out if covered; natural wicker should not be left outdoors in winter.
Outdoor Cushions and Upholstery
Perhaps the most sensitive element of your outdoor furniture setup, outdoor cushions and fabric coverings often wear down from UV exposure and moisture over time.
- Winter Performance: Even water-resistant fabrics can degrade when constantly saturated in snow and ice.
- Maintenance Tips:
- Even water-resistant cushions should be stored indoors for best results.
- If left outside: Use breathable, waterproof covers that allow airflow.
- Recommendation: Indoors is ideal. If left outside, use premium covers and clean them beforehand.
Should You Cover Outdoor Furniture in Winter?
If you’re planning to leave your outdoor furniture outside during the long winter season, using covers is strongly recommended. They offer a protective layer that can significantly enhance the lifespan of your furniture by shielding it from moisture, wind, and temperature extremes.
Choosing the Right Winter Covers
Not all covers are made equal. For maximum protection, choose breathable covers that are also waterproof. PVC, polyester, and vinyl are some of the most popular materials, but ensure quality craftsmanship for tear resistance.
| Type of Cover Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Breathable, UV-resistant, durable | May wear over multiple seasons |
| vinyl | Very waterproof, often heavy-duty | Can trap moisture internally if non-breathable |
| PVC | Sturdy, long-lasting | Less flexible and potentially harsher on furniture |
How to Properly Install Furniture Covers
Mere placement on furniture is not enough. Correct installation ensures coverage without creating moisture pockets, dirt traps, or damaging the furniture itself. Here’s how to do it right:
- Clean all pieces thoroughly. Use a mild soap, warm water, and soft brush to scrub surfaces before covering. Dry thoroughly.
- Select the right size cover. A cover that’s too loose flaps in the wind; one that’s too tight strains seams or tears easily.
- Ensure air gaps if possible. Choose breathable covers to avoid trapped condensation buildup.
- Use tie-down straps or weights. Especially for windy areas, secure ends of covers with ropes or sandbags.
Common Covering Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Homeowners often make small mistakes that can negate the benefits of a cover. Here are some to avoid:
- Using non-breathable plastic tarps: These can encourage mold and mildew under the surface, leading to permanent stains or fabric degradation.
- Skipping cleaning before covering: Dirt left behind becomes wet under snow, leading to staining and faster material breakdown.
- Not sealing gaps: Wind, snow, or pests may enter from uncovered edges.
Storage: A Safer Option for Delicate Furniture
If your space allows and you’re particularly concerned about your furniture’s integrity, storing pieces indoors is the safest bet. This is crucial for wood furniture, vintage pieces, or high-end patio furniture made for aesthetics as well as durability.
Storage Options
- Garage/Shed: An ideal location for most furniture sets, especially those that are too heavy or hard to move frequently.
- Basement: Offers cooler, less fluctuating temperatures and reduced humidity in many regions.
- Covered outdoor storage (under a deck, veranda): An alternative for homes where full indoor storage is impractical.
Preparation for Storage
To get the most from indoor storage:
- Dust, clean, and dry each piece. Just like with covering, start with completely dry furniture.
- Apply protective treatments as needed. Wood coatings, sealers, or metal grease may be appropriate depending on material type.
- Avoid stacking heavy items. Prevent accidental dents or crushing in storage by using protective layers or spacing furniture apart.
- Store cushions with desiccants. These small packets or devices absorb ambient moisture, preventing mold.
Climate Matters: How Winter Conditions Influence Decision-Making
The colder and harsher your winters are, the less likely your outdoor furniture can survive undamaged—no matter how durable the material. In regions where temperatures fall consistently below freezing or snowfall is heavy, leaving furniture uncovered becomes a significant gamble.
Key Regional Considerations
For homeowners in areas such as:
- Midwest to Northeast U.S.: Heavy snow and freeze-thaw cycles suggest indoor storage or heavy-duty covers as the best practice.
- Northwest and Pacific Coast: Wet and cold but less snow. Covers may suffice.
- Mountainous or Northern European regions: High-altitude, windy, and frigid areas; protection from snowdrifts becomes essential.
- Mild climates (e.g., Southern California or Florida): Minimal freezing and little snow, making it safe to leave furniture out without major precautions.
Should You Leave Outdoor Furniture in Winter? Final Verdict
Is it okay to leave outdoor furniture outside in the winter? The short answer is: It depends. Some modern furniture is built to withstand the seasonal transition, especially when made with aluminum, resin, or treated wood. Others—including natural rattan or antique wooden pieces—will benefit greatly from being covered or moved indoors.
Decision Checklist
- Material Type: Is it resistant to moisture, snow, and temperature changes?
- Climate Severity: Will the furniture be exposed to extreme cold, snow buildup, or wind?
- Maintenance Effort: Can it be cleaned, sealed, or covered ahead of time?
- Storage Availability: Is there space to move the furniture indoors for the season?
- Cost Risk: Can replacing the furniture affordably be done each year, or is it an investment worth preserving?
If all the answers point toward resilience, cover up and prepare for snowfall. If at all uncertain, opt for indoor storage to maximize your patio set’s life and appearance.
Conclusion: Preserve Your Outdoor Investment All Year Round
Properly caring for outdoor furniture during the winter means balancing practicality with preservation. Depending on your climate, the choice to leave furniture outside or move it indoors should be evaluated each season. From durable plastic resin sets that brave the cold to delicate wooden furniture requiring shelter from the elements, each piece deserves thoughtful preparation to ensure it lasts for years to come.
By taking the time to understand your furniture materials, applying protective coatings, using quality covers, and weighing the storage options available to you, you’ll make decisions that protect your investment and beautify your backyard setting for the long haul. Remember: the question of whether you can leave outdoor furniture out in winter isn’t just yes or no—it’s about which steps you’re willing and able to take to protect your patio paradise.
Can I leave my wooden outdoor furniture outside during winter?
Leaving wooden outdoor furniture outside in the winter is generally not advisable, especially if it’s untreated or unfinished. Wood is porous and can absorb moisture from snow, ice, or humidity, which may lead to cracking, splitting, or warping when the water freezes and expands. Even treated wood can degrade over time with prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions, so taking preventive measures or storing it indoors is best.
To protect wooden furniture if you must leave it outdoors, consider applying a water-resistant sealant or using a high-quality outdoor furniture cover. Elevating the furniture off the ground with blocks or a platform can help prevent moisture absorption from the soil. Additionally, removing cushions and storing them indoors will help preserve their quality and prevent mold or mildew growth caused by damp, cold conditions.
Is it safe to leave metal outdoor furniture outside during the colder months?
Metal outdoor furniture, particularly pieces made from wrought iron, aluminum, or steel, can often withstand cold temperatures, but it’s not entirely immune to winter damage. One of the biggest concerns with metal furniture is the potential for rust and corrosion, especially when exposed to snow, sleet, and damp air. Aluminum is more resistant to rust than iron or steel, but any metal with scratched paint or exposed areas is vulnerable.
To safely leave metal furniture outside during winter, clean it thoroughly and ensure it’s dry before covering it with a waterproof furniture cover. If the furniture is painted or powder-coated, inspect for chips or scratches and touch them up before winter sets in to prevent rust from forming. You can also store loose cushions and accessories indoors for better protection and longevity.
What should I do with wicker or rattan outdoor furniture in the winter?
Wicker and rattan furniture, whether natural or synthetic (resin-based), should not be left outside year-round, especially during winter. Natural wicker is especially sensitive to moisture and temperature fluctuations, which can cause it to rot, mold, or become brittle. While synthetic alternatives are more durable and weather-resistant, they can still be damaged over time due to prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures and moisture.
If you must leave synthetic wicker furniture outside, use furniture covers that are both waterproof and breathable to prevent condensation from building up underneath. Before covering, clean the furniture and allow it to dry completely. It’s also wise to remove and store all cushions and pillows indoors. For natural wicker pieces, it’s best to bring them inside to a dry, protected space like a garage or shed to preserve their appearance and structural integrity.
Can I leave plastic or resin outdoor furniture outside during winter?
Plastic and resin outdoor furniture are among the most winter-hardy options available, as they are inherently resistant to moisture, rot, and rust. These materials generally tolerate freezing temperatures better than wood or metal, making them more forgiving for outdoor winter storage. However, while they are durable, they can still suffer damage from heavy impacts or prolonged exposure to the elements, especially if left uncovered and unanchored.
To best protect plastic or resin furniture, it’s recommended to clean and dry the pieces before covering them with furniture covers or tarps that are UV-protected and water-resistant. This will help prevent dirt accumulation and reduce the risk of fading due to exposure to sunlight even in winter. If possible, store cushions inside and secure furniture so it doesn’t shift in strong winds, which can lead to scratches or breakage.
Should I cover my outdoor furniture in winter, and what type of cover should I use?
Yes, covering outdoor furniture in winter is a good idea regardless of the material, as it provides an essential layer of protection against snow, ice, moisture, and UV exposure. Covers help reduce the risk of rust, fading, cracking, and mold formation. The right cover can significantly extend the life of your furniture by shielding it from harsh weather conditions and environmental debris like tree sap or dirt.
When choosing a cover, look for one that is waterproof and breath — this combination prevents water from seeping in while allowing trapped moisture to escape, avoiding condensation buildup. Covers made of durable polyester or vinyl are often the best choices, as these materials can withstand cold and fluctuating temperatures. Ensure the covers fit snugly over your furniture pieces and are secured to prevent them from blowing away.
How should I prepare my outdoor furniture for winter storage?
Preparing your outdoor furniture for winter begins with a thorough cleaning using mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and any residues that may cause staining or deterioration over time. Once clean, let the furniture dry completely to avoid the development of mildew during storage. It’s also a good time to inspect and repair any damage, such as tightening screws or repainting scratches on metal pieces, before putting them away for the season.
If you’re storing furniture indoors, keep it in a dry area like a shed, basement, or garage to protect it from the moisture and cold. For furniture that will stay outdoors, use suitable covers and consider placing it slightly elevated off the ground to further prevent water absorption. Cushions and fabrics should always be cleaned and stored indoors regardless of whether the frames are kept outside or not.
Is it okay to leave patio cushions and fabrics outside in winter?
In general, leaving patio cushions and outdoor fabrics outside during winter is not recommended, even if they are labeled as weather-resistant. While UV and water-resistant materials can handle some outdoor conditions during the warmer seasons, they are not built to endure freezing temperatures, heavy moisture, and extended exposure to the elements for months at a time. Doing so typically shortens their lifespan and leads to fading, mold growth, or fabric degradation.
The best practice is to store cushions and fabric items indoors in a dry, climate-controlled space such as a garage, attic, or basement. Before storage, clean the cushions thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s care instructions and allow them to air dry fully. If you’re using storage bins, ensure they are breathable but protected from dust and pests. Storing these items correctly ensures they look and feel fresh for the next warm-weather season.