Should You Put Outdoor Furniture Away in Winter?

Most of us love to spend some quality time outdoors, and having the right furniture makes all the difference. But when winter comes around, you may be wondering if it’s a good idea to keep your outdoor furniture out all season or if you should put it away in storage. The answer isn’t a simple one, as it depends on the type of furniture and your climate.

If you have metal outdoor furniture, such as aluminum or wrought iron, then it is generally safe to leave outside all year round. Metal is more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations than other materials and is not prone to cracking or breaking due to cold weather. However, if you live in an area with extremely cold winters and heavy snowfall, then it may be best to store your metal furniture away for the season.

Wooden outdoor furniture is slightly more delicate than metal and needs a bit more care when it comes to winter storage. If you have a lacquered or painted finish on your wooden furniture, then leaving it outside during winter may cause the finish to fade or become cracked due to exposure to ice and snow. If this is the case for your furniture, then it is best to store them away during winter months.

Finally, plastic or resin patio furniture can usually be left out during winter without any problems. These materials are designed to withstand extreme temperatures without any damage so they can usually stay outside in even very cold climates.

Conclusion:
Ultimately, whether you should put away outdoor furniture in winter depends on the material that they are made from and the climate of your area. Metal patio sets can usually stay outside all year round while wooden sets may need protection from extreme temperatures. Plastic/resin sets often fare best during winter months so they can typically remain outdoors throughout the season.

Photo of author

Chris Powell