South East Queensland’s climate can be unkind to outdoor furniture. Even if you invest in high quality pieces, not even the toughest materials can withstand months of exposure to sun, wind, and rain. You might not be able to control the weather, but there are steps you can take to keep your outdoor furniture from falling apart. These are some of our best tips and tricks for outdoor furniture maintenance.
Take Cover
Designed to withstand the elements, outdoor furniture covers can work wonders for protecting your patio’s décor. Most outdoor furniture retailers sell covers in a range of shapes and sizes, so you can cover up your tables, chairs, sofas, sun lounges and other outdoor pieces. If you can’t find a cover with the right dimensions for a particular piece of furniture, simply use some tarpaulin.
They’re not the most aesthetically pleasing solution, but you don’t have to leave your furniture covers on all year round. Just be sure you have them on standby for extreme weather events.
Get Ready for Rain
No matter how vigilant you are with protecting your patio, your furniture will inevitably be exposed to bad weather at some point. Wooden furniture is particularly vulnerable to moisture, but applying a light layer of oil or a stain can help minimise the risk of water damage.
Simply sand back your wooden furniture, coat it in a protective oil or stain, and let it dry. This won’t make your timber pieces 100% waterproof, but it should at least delay the destructive effects of rain and humidity.
Stow Away Cushions and Pillows
Pillows and cushions can add a stylish touch to your outdoor living areas, but soft furnishings don’t fare well in the outdoors. To keep mould at bay, stash your cushions and pillows somewhere dry during wet weather. The same goes for blankets and throws.
If you’ve left it too late and your outdoor furnishing are already showing signs of mould, dilute a small amount of bleach in water and use the mixture to soak your cushion covers (be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands). For especially stubborn stains, you may need to use a scrubbing brush.
These simple tips should keep your outdoor furniture looking fresh come rain or shine. Of course, if really bad weather is headed your way, it’s best to bring all your outdoor furniture indoors to prevent property damage. For more tips on protecting your outdoor area from the elements, check out our blog on Preparing Your Patio for Storm Season.
