BIG PROJECT
Give it some TLC now so it SURVIVES WINTER unscathed and you don’t have to buy new next year
Get the LOOK for less
Whether you’ve got an on-trend plastic string sofa set or splashed out on a quality wooden dining table and chairs, spending an afternoon protecting it from the worst of the winter weather will mean it looks just as good next year. And let’s keep it real: lots of us buy garden furniture that’s supposed to be stored over the winter, but not all of us have the energy or garage space to stick to the manufacturer’s instructions. But a few simple steps will mean rain pours off rather than puddles, and even a blanket of snow won’t spell disaster. Don’t worry if you’re not sure what to use to preserve whatever type of furniture you’ve got, because our expert advice is right here to help.
COVER UP IF YOU CAN
Hanging Egg Chair Cover, £29.99, vonhaus.com
Whatever your furniture is made of, if you’re not using it much over winter, covering it over will help prevent damage from rain, frost and fading. If available, it’s well worth buying the matching cover for a product. If not, consider your priorities. Polypropylene covers are cheap and will last a season or two, but can be noisy in the wind. Fabric with a waterproof PU coating or PVC lined, or both, will last longer and is quieter, but is more expensive. And whatever you buy, check the seams are sealed or it’ll leak. Think about how bulky the fabric is if summer storage will be an issue, and also how it’s attached to the furniture and whether you’ll want to whip it off on a sunny day or if you’re happy to leave it securely in place for the whole winter. Whatever you choose, get some cheap-as-chips elastic ties (£2.39, safetyshop.com) to help keep the covers in place.
SORT THOSE CUSHIONS
Tosterö Outdoor Storage Box, £50, ikea.co.uk
Before you store them for the winter it’s a good idea to freshen cushions up and get rid of any stains. But do read the manufacturer’s instructions first, especially regarding using the washing machine, which can compromise any water- and stain-resistant properties. The easiest solution is to invest in a specially formulated cleaner. Golden Care Fabrics & Upholstery Care Kit, Cleaner & Protector (£35, harbourlifestyle.co.uk) has a spray-on, wipe-off cleaner and a water-repellent protector to help prevent future stains and mould or mildew build-up.
Ideally store in a fabric bag in a dry place like the garage or loft. Purpose-made bags can be pricey but an old duvet will do the job. Don’t put them in plastic bags as moisture can build up. If you don’t have room in the garage then buy an outdoor storage box as you should never leave them outside on the furniture unde
