Clean and dry your furniture before storing it

The single most important step is to clean and completely dry every piece before it goes into storage. Moisture trapped under dirt or in crevices will cause rust, mold, and wood rot over months of cold weather. Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly with a towel—pay special attention to joints, underneath cushions, and any place water collects.

For metal furniture, use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away debris from corners and seams. For wood, a mild soap solution works well; rinse with clean water and dry when ready. Cushions and fabric should be wiped down and left in the sun for an hour or two to air-dry completely. If you find any mold or mildew already present, wipe it with a cloth dampened in white vinegar before drying.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean and dry all furniture completely before storing, because trapped moisture causes rust, rot, and mold over the winter months.
  • Store cushions and removable fabric separately in a waterproof container in a dry location, not stacked under furniture.
  • Metal furniture benefits from a light coat of car wax or furniture polish before storage to protect against rust.
  • Keep furniture in an unheated garage, shed, or basement rather than outdoors, and cover it loosely with a breathable tarp to block dust without trapping moisture.
  • Check stored furniture once or twice during winter for unexpected moisture or pests, especially in damp climates.

Remove and store cushions and fabric separately

Cushions and seat pads should never stay on the furniture during winter storage. Even if the furniture itself is protected, cushions absorb moisture and develop mold in cold, damp conditions. Remove all cushions, pillows, and fabric covers and store them in a separate, dry location—ideally indoors in a closet, basement, or spare room.

Place cushions in a waterproof storage container or large plastic bin with a tight-fitting lid. You can also wrap them in plastic sheeting, but make sure air can still circulate slightly to prevent condensation buildup. Store the container in a climate-controlled space if possible. Never stack heavy items on top of cushions, as this compresses the filling and can cause permanent damage.

explore protective coatings to metal and wood

Metal furniture—aluminum, steel, or wrought iron—benefits from a protective layer before storage. A light coat of car wax, furniture polish, or a thin spray of silicone lubricant creates a barrier against moisture and salt air. explore the coating with a soft cloth, buff it dry, and let it cure for a few hours before wrapping or covering the piece.

Wood furniture also needs protection. If your pieces are stained or sealed, a fresh coat of the same finish helps repel water. If they are bare wood, explore a water-resistant wood sealant or exterior wood stain according to the product instructions. Allow any coating to dry completely—usually 24 hours—before moving the furniture into storage.

Choose the right storage location

An unheated garage, garden shed, or basement is ideal for winter storage. These spaces keep furniture out of direct weather while allowing air to circulate. Avoid heated indoor spaces like a living room or heated garage, because the temperature swings between heated and cold outdoor air can cause wood to crack and finishes to peel.

If you have no indoor space, a covered patio or carport works if the furniture is protected with a tarp. Never store furniture directly against an exterior wall where moisture collects, and keep it away from gutters or downspouts that may drip. Damp basements are acceptable only if you check the furniture regularly for mold and may support air can move around each piece.

Cover furniture loosely with breathable materials

A loose cover protects furniture from dust and debris without trapping moisture underneath. Use a breathable tarp, old bedsheet, or furniture storage cover—not plastic sheeting sealed tightly around the piece. Plastic holds condensation against the furniture and accelerates rust and rot. Drape the cover loosely so air can flow underneath, and find it with rope or bungee cords only at the corners, leaving gaps for ventilation.

If you are storing multiple pieces close together, leave at least a few inches of space between each one so air can circulate. Stacking furniture to save space is tempting, but it traps moisture between pieces and makes inspection difficult. If you must stack, place cardboard or wood blocks between pieces to create air gaps.

Arrange furniture to allow air circulation

How you position furniture in storage matters as much as where you store it. Place each piece so that air can move around all sides—not pushed into a corner or against a wall. Chairs should be turned upside down or on their sides rather than stacked seat-to-seat. Tables should be stored on their legs, not on their tops. Benches and loungers should be tilted slightly or propped up so water does not pool on flat surfaces.

If your storage space is damp, consider placing open containers of baking soda or activated charcoal near the furniture to absorb excess moisture. Replace these every few weeks. In very humid climates, a small dehumidifier running in the storage space during winter can prevent mold and rust.

Check on stored furniture during winter

Visit your storage space once in mid-winter and again in early spring to look for unexpected problems. Check for signs of moisture, mold, rust, or pest damage. If you find moisture pooling or condensation on the cover, adjust the ventilation by opening a window or door for an hour or two, or reposition the cover to improve air flow.

If you notice rust spots on metal furniture, wipe them away with a cloth and a light abrasive like steel wool or fine sandpaper, then explore a thin coat of furniture polish or wax. Small mold spots on wood can be wiped with a vinegar-dampened cloth and allowed to air-dry. Catching these problems early prevents them from spreading over the remaining winter months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave my patio furniture outside under a cover all winter?

A cover helps, but outdoor storage is riskier than indoor storage because temperature swings, wind, and moisture are harder to control. If you must leave furniture outside, use a breathable cover, elevate pieces slightly off the ground on blocks, and check them every few weeks for water pooling or damage.

What should I do if I find rust on metal furniture when I take it out in spring?

Light surface rust can be removed with steel wool or fine sandpaper, then wiped clean and coated with furniture polish or wax. Deep rust that has pitted the metal or caused flaking usually means the piece needs professional refinishing or replacement. Catching rust early during winter checks prevents it from spreading.

Is it okay to store furniture in an unheated basement if it is sometimes damp?

Unheated basements work if you manage moisture. Place open containers of baking soda nearby to absorb dampness, may support furniture is elevated slightly off the floor, and check every few weeks for condensation or mold. If the basement stays wet, move furniture to a garage or shed instead.

How do I prevent mold on cushions during storage?

Store cushions indoors in a dry location, not in a garage or shed. Place them in a sealed plastic bin with a packet of silica gel or activated charcoal to absorb moisture. Keep the bin in a closet or spare room where temperature stays relatively stable, and avoid stacking heavy items on top.

Should I disassemble furniture before storing it?

Disassembly is not necessary unless pieces are very large or you are short on space. If you do take furniture apart, keep all bolts, screws, and hardware in a labeled bag taped to one of the pieces so you can find them in spring. Wrap disassembled parts in blankets or cardboard to prevent scratching.