Outdoor Cushions are manufactured to resist wear and tear, typically using durable stitching and fillers to keep them sturdy. Patio furniture can become mildewy and musty if not stored correctly in the off-season. Cushions are also vulnerable to pests, as rats and spiders can hide inside a patio cushion.
The following are ways to store cushions in a dry and pest-free location properly.
Remember that the cushions must be cleaned, wrapped, and stored when putting away patio furniture for the season.
Here are tips to keep them waterproof, bugproof, and smell-proof.
1. Wash the cushions and dry them.
Washing and drying cushions is an easy but overlooked step. As summer turns to fall, many people rush through the outdoor steps needed to take place before fall.
It’s critical to take time to clean and dry your patio cushions before the winter. While some decide to keep the cushions outdoors—even if they are out of the rain, dirt and moisture could deteriorate the fabric.
Cleaning patios cushion often depends on the type of fabric and removability. These steps will guide you to the best practices for storing cushions.
2. Select a suitable container or covering for storage.
Airtight containers. These work best if you don’t plan on storing the cushions for long. You can keep cushions in airtight containers. While the fabric should breathe, the airtight containers will be sure no moths or pests get to the material. Make sure cushions are dry without moisture before storing them.
Fabric storage bag. If you live in a high-humidity area, refrain from storing cushions in an airtight container. Humidity can move to the side of the container, with moisture becoming trapped. A fabric bag works best to move air through cushions.
Tarps or blankets. If storing cushions in a garage, be sure to wrap the cushion with a tarp, sheets, or drop cloth when storing as a garage can house rodents.
3. Keep outdoor cushions in a dry location.
While outdoor cushions are constructed to endure environmental elements, they are still susceptible to mold and mildew if stored outside or in a damp area. Look for a dry environment with a uniform temperature.
Choose the finished basement if it is a storage choice between a garage or a finished basement. The garage temperature and humidity levels constantly fluctuate because of the door opening and closing, and a finished basement is likely drier, with the air quality being more consistent.
Outdoor cushion storage tips:
- Keep the cushions off the ground. Basement and garage floors hold moisture, which can transfer to your cushions. Pests are also more likely to get into your cushions if they are on the ground. Palettes, tables, or shelves can lift the cushion.
- Keep cushions out of direct sunlight. If you must store cushions outside, keep them under a cover. Store the cushions away from the windows, as UV light causes the fabric to fade and deteriorate.
Storage Authority provides 24/7 self-storage room access so you can retrieve your goods when it’s convenient for you. Our storage units and moving products go a long way in providing peace of mind to our customers. Visit our website, contact us, or call us at 262-676-9464.