Store and cover outdoor furniture

Short answer

Each fall, bring cushions and lightweight furniture indoors and cover heavier pieces with weatherproof covers secured against wind.

Priority: Low
Difficulty: DIY
Time: 30 min
How often: Once a year
Season: Fall

Why It Matters

Winter freeze-thaw cycles crack frames, fade cushions, and rust hardware. Stored furniture lasts years longer.

Tools

Weatherproof furniture covers
Cloth
Straps or weights

How to Do It

Remove all cushions, pillows, and fabric accessories from outdoor furniture.
Wipe cushions clean and dry them completely before storing to prevent mildew.
Bring cushions and any lightweight pieces indoors to a garage, shed, or basement.
For heavier furniture that stays outside, drape a weatherproof cover over each piece.
Weight or strap down each cover so wind can't lift or displace it.

Aerate and overseed lawn Once a year
Apply perimeter pest repellent Once a year
Clear debris from yard Once a year

Part Of

Grounds Outdoor Furniture

Last updated 23 September 2026

Put this on your schedule

Stu adds tasks like this one to a maintenance plan for your home and reminds you when they're due.