Outdoor furniture can really bring your space to life, offering comfort and style for all kinds of outdoor activities. But here’s the catch – leaving that beautiful furniture exposed to the elements can take a toll. So, how do you protect it all year round? The answer is simple: furniture covers. But not all covers are created equal. You need the right type to suit the weather, material, and your furniture’s shape.
Why Invest in Outdoor Furniture Covers?
It’s easy to overlook furniture covers, especially when your outdoor pieces look sturdy. But think about how much time you spend selecting that perfect lounge set or dining table. The sun, rain, wind, and even dust can wear them down faster than you think. So, here’s why covers are essential:
- Prolonged lifespan – Covers prevent wear and tear from harsh weather.
- Reduced maintenance – Less cleaning, polishing, or treating wood and metals.
- All-weather protection – Good covers can handle rain, sun, and even frost.
- Style preservation – Your furniture looks better for longer when protected.
With that in mind, here’s how to pick the right covers based on the seasons.
Summer: Shield from the Sun
The summer sun is great for outdoor lounging, but it’s also tough on your furniture. Constant exposure to UV rays can cause fading, warping, and cracking, especially on wood and fabric. If you leave your furniture uncovered, you might notice that what was once vibrant quickly becomes dull. This is why outdoor furniture covers from the likes of The Cover Company are essential during this time of year!
When selecting covers for summer:
- Look for UV protection – A good cover should block harmful rays.
- Breathability matters – Choose materials that allow airflow to prevent mould and mildew.
- Water-resistant, not waterproof – Summer can bring some surprise showers, so you need covers that repel light rain but don’t trap moisture inside.
Fabrics like polyester with a PVC backing are a smart choice for summer covers, as they offer both UV protection and a level of water resistance without making your furniture sweat.
Winter: Defend Against Cold and Damp
Winter can be harsh, depending on where you live, and moisture becomes the main culprit. Rain, frost, and even snow can all wreak havoc on outdoor furniture. For winter, you’ll need something that can handle the cold and keep the damp out.
Here’s what to look for in winter covers:
- Waterproof material – Winter covers need to be completely waterproof to protect against heavy rain and snow. Materials like vinyl and polyester with PVC backing are your best bets.
- Cold-resistant – Some covers can become brittle in freezing temperatures, so opt for a material that stays flexible in the cold.
- Secure fit – Strong winds can blow your covers away. Make sure they come with ties, straps, or elastic hems to stay in place.
Consider investing in thicker, padded covers for added protection during winter. These covers can also prevent frost from directly contacting the surface of your furniture, keeping everything in better shape until spring.
Read Also: Modern Aesthetics: Incorporating Black into Your Decor
Autumn: Prepare for Wind and Debris
Autumn is a tricky season. While it’s not as extreme as summer or winter, it brings its own challenges, particularly wind and falling debris like leaves and branches. Your outdoor furniture is at risk of being scratched, knocked about, or covered in unwanted autumn leaves.
For autumn, the key is durability:
- Heavy-duty material – Look for tough materials that can withstand gusty winds and won’t tear easily.
- Dustproof – Dust and dirt are common in autumn, so go for covers that block fine debris.
- Quick-drying – Autumn can be damp, so opt for materials that dry quickly to avoid mould and mildew.
Polyethylene covers are a good option for autumn, as they are durable, quick to dry, and generally more resistant to the wear and tear caused by wind.
Spring: Combat Rain and Pollen
Spring can be a lovely time to enjoy your outdoor space, but it’s also a season known for rain and pollen. Too much moisture can cause rust on metal furniture and rot on wooden pieces. Pollen, on the other hand, can stick to your furniture and leave behind a layer of unwanted grime.
Here’s how to protect your furniture during spring:
- Water-repellent – Not fully waterproof, but water-resistant enough to handle spring showers.
- Easy to clean – You’ll want covers that are easy to wipe down in case of pollen build-up.
- Ventilation – Ensure your covers have vents or breathable fabric to reduce condensation and mildew growth during damp days.
For spring, lightweight covers are ideal. They’re easy to manage and provide just enough protection without trapping moisture.
How to Measure and Fit Your Covers
One of the biggest mistakes people make is getting covers that don’t fit properly. Ill-fitting covers either leave parts of your furniture exposed or cause damage by trapping moisture. So, how do you ensure the perfect fit?
Measure the dimensions
Always measure your furniture’s height, width, and depth.
Account for cushions
If you’re leaving cushions on, factor their height into your measurements.
Look for adjustable features
Covers with adjustable straps or drawstrings ensure a snug fit, protecting against wind and water.
Getting the right size is key to making sure your covers work as they should.
Extra Tips for Outdoor Furniture Care
Covers do a lot of the heavy lifting, but there are other things you can do to keep your furniture in good condition. Here are a few additional tips:
Store cushions indoors
Even with covers, it’s a good idea to bring cushions inside when not in use.
Clean furniture before covering
Dirt and moisture trapped under the cover can cause damage over time.
Check covers regularly
Inspect your covers for any signs of wear and tear, and replace them when needed.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right outdoor furniture covers is about more than just picking a piece of fabric. It’s about ensuring your investment stays in top shape, no matter the season. Think about the materials, the weather, and your furniture’s unique needs to get covers that provide the best protection year-round. Whether it’s the scorching summer sun or the biting winter frost, your outdoor space will thank you for it!
