Can outdoor furniture be left outside in winter? What to do with your patio furniture. (2024)

As the cold weather approaches, it’s always recommended that you get your garden bedded down for the winter. Plants, flowersand soil all benefit from a little winter preparedness. But what about your garden furniture? Well, if you want it to last, your outdoor chairs, tables, umbrellas, etc., also need some TLC before they’re packed away or left to the elements.

Winterizing outdoor furniture isn’t essential. It won’t disintegrate in the winter months. But frost, snow, freezing rainand wind can cause damage. And as patio furniture is not exactly cheap, taking a few precautions is the smart and economical thing to do.

Can outdoor furniture be left outdoors in the winter?

By definition, you’d think outdoor furniture can be left outside. But when it comes to cold weather, all outdoor furniture is not the same. That’s because how well it withstands the winter depends on what it’s made from. Aluminum furniture is the most durable as it’s unaffected by the wet and cold. But it is prone to dents and dings if blown around in high winds, which often happens because it’s lightweight. Wood furniture, especially if it’s made of teak, can hold up pretty well too, as the wood resists moisture. Plastic furniture can also withstand Mother Nature’s extremes. Though cold conditions may make it more brittle and prone to crack.

Which outdoor furniture should not be left outdoors in the winter?

While most outdoor furniture can survive the odd spring or summertime shower or temperature dip, some materials will damage worse than others in prolonged winter exposure.

In damp weather, wicker furniture absorbs moisture. When the moisture freezes and expands, the wicker will crack or break. So, wicker furniture must be covered, storedor kept inside during the winter. Steel furniture can crack and rust in the cold and wet, and likewise, furniture made of iron. Meanwhile, stone items are also vulnerable as water can seep into small fissures, freeze, expandand crack the stone. Since you probably can’t bring stone furniture inside, covering it is the best option, which is obviously the best way to protect all your outdoor furniture, whatever it’s made from.

Reviewed-approved outdoor home recommendations

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Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of experts test everything from outdoor patio furnituretosolar lights so you can shop for the best of the best.

Best solar lights:BeauJardin8-Pack Solar Pathway Lights
Our favorite outdoor smart plug:Wyze Plug Outdoor
Extension cord:Voltec 05-00106 12/3 SJTW Outdoor Extension Cord
Home security camera:Wyze Cam v3 with Color Night Vision
Top-rated heater:Sunwave 3000 Watt Infrared Patio Heater
Our favorite patio furniture:Devoko 5-Piece Patio Furniture Set
Garbage can:Toter 32-Gallon Blackstone Trash Can with Wheels

Can outdoor furniture be left outside in winter? What to do with your patio furniture. (2024)

Can outdoor furniture be left outdoors in the winter?

Which outdoor furniture should not be left outdoors in the winter?

Reviewed-approved outdoor home recommendations

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