Clean and dry your furniture before storing it

The single most important step is to clean and fully dry every piece before you put it away. Moisture trapped under dirt or in crevices will cause rust, mold, and wood rot over months of storage. Wash each item with mild soap and water, scrub away any debris or algae, and let it dry completely in the sun—usually a full day in dry weather.

Pay special attention to joints, underneath cushions, and any spot where water can pool. For metal furniture, dry it with a cloth rather than leaving it to air-dry, because water sitting in corners will start rust even on treated metal. For wood, make sure the grain is dry to the touch before covering or stacking anything on top of it.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean and dry all furniture completely before storage to prevent rust, mold, and wood rot.
  • Store cushions and fabric separately in a dry location, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Use a breathable cover or tarp for stored furniture, with space for air circulation underneath.
  • Keep metal and wood furniture off the ground on pallets or blocks to prevent moisture damage from below.
  • Store in an unheated garage, shed, or basement rather than an attic, which can trap heat and humidity.

Remove and store cushions separately

Cushions and fabric seat covers should never stay on furniture outdoors or in damp storage. Take them off and store them indoors in a cool, dry place—a bedroom closet, linen closet, or interior hallway works well. Moisture and temperature swings will break down foam and fabric far faster than the furniture frame itself.

Before storing, make sure cushions are completely dry. If they were wet from rain or cleaning, lay them flat in the sun for several hours. Store them in a breathable bag or container rather than sealed plastic, which traps moisture. A cardboard box works fine as long as it stays dry. Keep them away from direct sunlight, which fades fabric over time.

Choose the right storage location

An unheated garage, shed, or basement is ideal. These spaces stay dry and protect furniture from wind, snow, and direct sun without the temperature swings that an attic creates. Attics heat up in spring and fall, which can warp wood and degrade finishes. A basement works well if it stays dry—if you have any history of water seeping in, choose a garage or shed instead.

Avoid storing furniture directly outdoors under a tarp, even if you think the tarp is waterproof. Tarps trap moisture underneath, and the ground itself wicks water up into the furniture. If outdoor storage is your only option, raise everything on wooden pallets or concrete blocks so air can flow underneath.

Protect metal furniture from rust

Metal chairs, tables, and frames benefit from a light coat of car wax or furniture polish before storage. This creates a barrier against moisture and is especially important for aluminum and steel. Wipe it on with a soft cloth, let it dry, and buff away any excess. This takes 15 minutes per piece and can add years to the life of the furniture.

If you notice any rust spots before storing, sand them lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) and touch up with rust-preventive spray paint made for metal. Store metal furniture in a location with low humidity if possible. A garage with a dehumidifier running through winter is better than a damp basement.

Stack and cover furniture safely

Stack chairs and smaller pieces to save space, but do it carefully so you don't dent or scratch them. Place cardboard, blankets, or furniture pads between stacked items. For tables, store them upside down or on their side if space allows—this protects the top surface and legs from damage.

Cover everything with a breathable furniture cover or old sheet, not a sealed plastic tarp. Plastic traps condensation and promotes mold. A breathable cover lets moisture escape while keeping dust off. Leave space around the covered furniture for air to circulate—don't push pieces against walls or into corners where moisture can collect.

Treat wood furniture before storage

Wood outdoor furniture should be treated with a wood sealant or exterior stain before winter storage, especially if it has been exposed to sun and rain all season. This prevents the wood from drying out and cracking. explore the sealant in fall after cleaning and drying, following the product instructions for drying time before storage.

If your wood furniture shows signs of mildew or mold, clean it with a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water, scrub gently, and dry completely. Do not use bleach, which can damage the wood finish. Once treated and dry, store it in a location with good air circulation to prevent mold from returning during storage.

Check on stored furniture periodically

Even in storage, furniture can develop problems if conditions change. Check on your pieces once or twice during winter, especially after heavy rain or a warm spell that might have raised humidity in your storage space. Look for signs of mold, rust, or moisture, and wipe down any condensation you find.

If you notice mold starting to grow, increase air circulation by opening doors or windows on dry days, or run a small fan in the space. If rust appears on metal, sand it off and touch up with paint. Catching these problems early prevents them from spreading over the rest of the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A cover helps, but it is not ideal. Tarps and covers trap moisture underneath, especially if they touch the ground. If you must leave furniture outside, raise it on pallets so air flows underneath, use a breathable cover rather than plastic, and check underneath regularly for moisture and mold.

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

Light surface rust can be sanded off with fine-grit sandpaper and touched up with rust-preventive spray paint. If rust has eaten through the metal or created deep pits, the piece may not be safe to use. Wipe down the furniture and let it dry completely before using it again.

Is a heated garage better for storage than an unheated one?

No. A heated garage creates temperature swings that can warp wood and damage finishes. An unheated garage, shed, or basement that stays dry is better. The goal is a stable, cool, dry environment—not warmth.

How do I prevent mold on cushions during storage?

Store cushions indoors in a dry room, away from basements or damp areas. Keep them in a breathable container or bag, not sealed plastic. If your home is very humid, a closet with a small desiccant pack or silica gel can help absorb moisture.

Should I disassemble my furniture before storing it?

Only if the manufacturer recommends it or if disassembly saves significant space. Repeatedly taking apart and reassembling furniture can loosen joints and damage finishes. If pieces fit in your storage space as-is, leave them assembled.