When the British weather turns and Bradford’s skies go grey, your garden furniture deserves a little attention before it’s left to face the elements. Whether you’ve got a hardwood dining set, a rattan corner sofa, or a simple set of metal chairs, how you prepare and store your furniture at the end of summer can make a real difference to how long it lasts. We cover everything you need to know – from cleaning and treating different materials to finding the right place to store it all over winter.
Cold temperatures, persistent damp, and fluctuating conditions can cause lasting damage to garden furniture. Wood can warp and grow lichen, metal can rust, and plastic can become brittle over time. The good news is that a bit of effort at the end of the season keeps your furniture in great shape for years to come.
The right approach depends on what your furniture is made from. Whatever the material, there are two rules that apply across the board: avoid abrasive cleaners and scourers, and always make sure everything is completely clean and dry before packing it away. Storing damp furniture is the quickest way to encourage mildew and fungal growth.
Autumn is the ideal time for a thorough clean – aim for at least once a year. Brush away leaves and larger debris, then wash with warm, soapy water and a hardwood scrubbing pad to lift ingrained dirt, moss, and lichen. If the wood has faded, a colour restorer can revive its original tone. Finish with a quality furniture oil, protective stain, or water-repellent hardwood shield.
Metal furniture needs careful attention to guard against rust. Clean it with a mild solution and a soft cloth, rinse thoroughly, and dry it completely. Check for any chips in the paintwork – these should be treated with rust-preventing paint before they worsen. Joints and fixings benefit from a little oil to keep them moving freely. Where possible, storing metal furniture under cover over winter is the best way to protect it.
High-quality synthetic rattan handles wet and cold conditions well, but the cushions are another matter – always bring those indoors when not in use, as they’ll quickly become damp and uncomfortable if left outside. Clean the furniture itself with light soapy water, and consider using a protective cover to keep it free from falling leaves, frost, and debris throughout the colder months.
Plastic is low-maintenance but not indestructible. Regular cleaning with soap and water keeps it looking fresh. If space allows, storing plastic furniture under cover for winter is a good idea, as prolonged exposure to cold and strong UV light can cause it to become brittle over time.
If you can store your furniture somewhere dry, secure, and free from damp, this is always the preferred option – particularly for metal and plastic pieces. Pack items without covering them if possible, to allow any remaining moisture to escape naturally.
For those without a garage or shed large enough to take bulkier furniture sets, self-storage is a practical and affordable alternative.
At Incredible Bulk, we offer clean, secure, and flexible personal storage solutions right here in Bradford – ideal for keeping your garden furniture protected through the colder months. Our units range from compact lockers right up to 250 sqft, so there’s a size to suit whether you’re storing a couple of chairs or a full outdoor dining set.
Our facility at Whetley Mills on Thornton Road is easy to reach, with ample on-site parking and great transport links. With 24-hour CCTV, manned patrols, and fully insured premises, your belongings are in safe hands. Prices start from just £1 per day, making us one of the most affordable storage options in Bradford and the North West.
Get in touch with our friendly team today, or get your free quote.
If you any other questions, please feel free to call us or drop in for a chat.
Get in touch!
