Store cushions in a cool, dry place indoors, away from direct sunlight and moisture

The best storage for patio cushions is inside your home—a basement, garage, closet, or spare room where the temperature stays between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Cushions left outside year-round break down faster because sun exposure fades fabric, moisture causes mildew and rot, and temperature swings weaken the foam core. Even a covered porch is not ideal if rain can blow in or humidity builds up.

If indoor storage is not possible, a sealed plastic storage container or weatherproof deck box works as a second choice, but check it monthly during damp months to catch mildew early. Never store cushions in an attic where heat builds up in summer, or in an unheated shed where freezing temperatures can damage the foam.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean and dry cushions completely before storing them, because trapped moisture causes mildew within weeks.
  • Store cushions indoors in a cool, dry space—a basement or climate-controlled garage is ideal.
  • Use breathable storage bags or containers with ventilation holes, not airtight plastic that traps moisture.
  • Stack cushions flat or store them upright in a bin, but do not compress them under heavy weight for months at a time.
  • Check stored cushions every few weeks during humid seasons and wipe away any condensation you find.

Clean and fully dry cushions before putting them away

Moisture is the enemy of stored cushions. Even a small amount of dampness trapped inside the fabric or foam will grow mildew within two to four weeks. Start by wiping down each cushion with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. If the cushion has visible dirt or stains, use a soft brush and mild soap mixed with water, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

After cleaning, let cushions air-dry completely in sunlight for at least four to six hours, or longer if the weather is humid. Flip them halfway through so both sides dry evenly. You can also dry them indoors near a fan or in a warm room with good air circulation. Do not store a cushion until it feels completely dry to the touch—squeeze a corner gently; if any moisture comes out, it needs more drying time.

Choose the right storage container or bag

Airtight plastic bins trap moisture and create the exact environment where mildew thrives. Instead, use breathable storage bags made from cotton or canvas, or plastic containers with ventilation holes drilled into the lid and sides. Weatherproof deck boxes with drainage holes work well for outdoor storage, as long as you check them monthly.

If you use plastic bags, choose ones designed for storage that allow some air circulation, or poke small holes in the corners yourself. Avoid vacuum-seal bags, which compress cushions and trap air inside. Label each container or bag with the furniture piece it belongs to—this saves time when you set up again next season.

Stack or arrange cushions to prevent damage

Stacking cushions flat is fine for short-term storage, but do not stack more than three or four high, as the weight of cushions on top can compress the foam permanently. If you are storing for six months or longer, stand cushions upright in a bin or lean them against a wall instead. This keeps pressure off the foam and lets air circulate around all sides.

Do not place heavy items on top of stored cushions. Even a box of winter decorations can compress the foam enough that the cushion never fully fluffs back up. If space is tight, use a shelving unit to store cushions on separate shelves rather than stacking them.

Protect against pests and mildew during storage

Before sealing up your storage container, place a small open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb moisture and odors. Replace it every month during humid seasons. Do not use mothballs or cedar blocks unless you want your cushions to smell strongly of those products when you bring them out.

Check stored cushions every two to four weeks, especially during spring and fall when humidity fluctuates. Open the container, look for any dark spots or musty smell, and wipe away condensation from the inside of the lid or bag. If you spot early mildew—small dark patches on the fabric—wipe it with a cloth dampened in white vinegar, then dry the cushion again before returning it to storage.

Store cushions separately from furniture if possible

If you are storing the patio furniture itself, keep cushions in a different location if you can. Furniture frames take up space and can trap moisture around the cushions if they are stored together in a tight container. If you must store them together, place cushions on a shelf or pallet above the furniture frame, not directly on top of it or wedged against it.

For cushions that stay on the furniture through winter, use a waterproof furniture cover that allows some air circulation underneath. Breathable covers designed for outdoor furniture are better than plastic tarps, which trap moisture. Lift the cover every few weeks to let air flow underneath.

Prepare cushions for use again in spring

When you are ready to bring cushions back out, let them sit in sunlight for an hour or two before putting them on furniture. This warms them up and helps any remaining moisture evaporate. If you notice a musty smell, wipe the cushions with a cloth dampened in white vinegar and let them air in the sun again.

Check the fabric and seams for any damage before using the cushions. If you find small tears or loose stitching, repair them now rather than waiting until the cushion falls apart mid-season. A needle and thread or a fabric patch kit fixes most small problems quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store cushions in a plastic storage bin with a tight lid?

A tight lid traps moisture inside and causes mildew. Use a bin with ventilation holes in the lid and sides, or drill holes yourself. You can also use a breathable storage bag made from canvas or cotton instead of plastic.

How often should I check on stored cushions?

Check them every two to four weeks, especially during humid months like spring and fall. Open the container, look for dark spots or musty smells, and wipe away any condensation from the lid or bag. This catches mildew problems early when they are straightforward to fix.

What should I do if I find mildew on a stored cushion?

Wipe the affected area with a cloth dampened in white vinegar, then let the cushion dry completely in sunlight before returning it to storage. If mildew covers more than a small patch, the cushion may not be salvageable and should be replaced.

Is it okay to store cushions in an unheated garage over winter?

Freezing temperatures can damage foam, so an unheated garage is not ideal. A climate-controlled garage or basement between 50 and 70 degrees is much better. If an unheated garage is your only option, wrap cushions in blankets for extra insulation.

Can I use vacuum-seal bags to save space?

Vacuum-seal bags compress cushions and trap air inside, which can cause mildew and permanently flatten the foam. Use regular breathable storage bags or containers with ventilation holes instead, even if they take up more space.