How to Care for Your Outdoor Furniture Through All Seasons

We all love a cozy backyard—those lazy summer days lounging in the sun, fall evenings around the fire pit, or spring brunches on the patio. But Wisconsin weather isn’t always gentle on outdoor furniture. 

If you’ve invested in great outdoor furniture pieces from Silica For Your Home, you're going to want to protect them year-round. Luckily, caring for your patio furniture through all the seasons is easier than you might think.

Let’s explore some simple yet effective ways to keep your outdoor furniture looking fresh season after season.

How to Clean Outdoor Furniture

Whether your outdoor furniture set is sleek metal, rustic wood, or comfy wicker, regular cleaning goes a long way. Dirt and pollen can become abrasive over time, causing wear and tear faster than you'd expect.

• Wood Furniture: A gentle mix of soap and warm water will do wonders. Avoid harsh chemicals that strip away protective coatings. Once or twice a year, apply a fresh coat of sealant or oil to prevent cracking and fading.

• Metal Furniture: Aluminum and wrought iron furniture are durable, but they still love some TLC. Regular cleaning with mild detergent and water keeps rust at bay. For added protection, a quick spray of rust-resistant paint each spring can make your pieces last even longer.

• Wicker and Fabric: Wipe down wicker regularly with a damp cloth. Outdoor cushions should have removable covers—toss them in the washer at the start and end of the outdoor season. 

Pro tip: Always let your patio furniture dry completely to prevent mildew.

How to Winterize Your Outdoor Patio Furniture

Here in Wisconsin, winter isn’t exactly furniture-friendly. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc if you’re not prepared.

• Invest in Quality Furniture Covers: These are your best defense against moisture, ice, and snow. Choose waterproof and breathable outdoor furniture covers that allow air to circulate, preventing mold and mildew.

• Store Cushions Indoors: Even the best covers can’t fully prevent moisture from creeping in. Bring cushions inside or store them in weatherproof outdoor storage solutions from Silica.

Caring for Your Grill All Year Round

Your outdoor grill is an essential part of any backyard setup. Here's how to keep it in peak condition:

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, scrub down the grill grates with a quality grill brush. Monthly, give your grill a deeper clean, clearing out the grease trays and burners.

• Seasonal Maintenance: At the beginning and end of grilling season, inspect your grill for rust or wear. Replace any damaged parts and check connections for gas grills.

• Cover It Up: Invest in a durable, waterproof grill cover from Silica to protect your grill from snow, rain, and UV rays, extending its lifespan significantly.

Seasonal Outdoor Furniture Maintenance Matters

Every season comes with its own little quirks (and challenges), but simple maintenance steps can help your furniture weather each one beautifully.

• Spring Cleaning: Spring is the perfect time for a refresh. Make sure to inspect your furniture for signs of rust or wear. Tighten loose screws and apply touch-up paint where needed. This small effort at the beginning of the season saves big headaches later. Check out our Spring Cleaning Appliance Checklist for indoor kitchen appliances.

• Summer Check-In: High heat and strong sun can fade fabrics quickly. Rotate your furniture occasionally to ensure even sun exposure, and consider investing in a stylish patio umbrella or pergola from Silica to give your set some shade.

• Autumn Preparation: Falling leaves and moisture can trap dirt and promote mold growth. Keep your patio clear of debris, and when temperatures start dropping, prep your furniture for winter storage or cover them up.

Our Favorite Outdoor Furniture Picks

Here’s a quick roundup of patio furniture products from Silica to help care for your outdoor furniture and create the ultimate backyard cooking space year-round:

• Napoleon St. Tropez Square Patioflame® Table (Model #STTR2BZ): This elegant fire table serves as a stunning focal point for any patio. Finished in rustic bronze, it features a topaz glass ember bed that adds a touch of sophistication.

• Ashley Furniture Elite Park Outdoor Dining Table (Model #P518-625): Add a distinguished touch of gray to your outdoor living space with this contemporary outdoor dining table. Its aluminum top combines exceptional durability and weather resistance with the wood-look finish you love.

• Perfect Choice Furniture Classic Rocking Adirondack Chair (Model #CL102NBKCR): This classic beige Adirondack chair is crafted from high-quality, weather-resistant materials. It withstands various climates for longevity and minimal maintenance.

Explore the Best Outdoor Furniture at Silica

Taking good care of your outdoor furniture doesn’t have to be a chore. With just a little bit of attention each season and our outdoor furniture care tips, you can keep your favorite patio pieces from Silica For Your Home looking fresh and inviting. 

Contact us today or visit our Silica store locations in Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, and Watertown, Wisconsin, to explore our selection of weather-resistant backyard furniture. Our helpful staff is here to help you make the best choice for your outdoor space.

➡ Shop outdoor furniture for sale at Silica For Your Home today!

Related readings from our blog:

• How Do I Clean The Inside Of My Refrigerator?

• Best Flattop Grills

• Weber Vs. Traeger: Which Brand Is Right For You?

FAQ: Caring for Outdoor Furniture

1. How to care for outdoor furniture cushions?
Remove cushion covers and machine-wash them on a gentle cycle, then air dry fully.

2. Can you leave metal furniture outside in winter?
Yes, but it's best to cover it with waterproof furniture covers to prevent rust and weather damage.

3. Is it better to oil or varnish outdoor furniture?
Oiling is generally better as it penetrates the wood, preserving its natural look and making future maintenance easier.

4. Is it okay to leave patio furniture out in the rain?
Occasionally, yes, but frequent or prolonged exposure can damage it. Protective covers are recommended.

5. What is the easiest outdoor furniture to care for?
Metal or recycled plastic furniture typically requires the least maintenance and is highly weather-resistant.