7 Mistakes You’re Making With Outdoor Furniture This Summer

Outdoor furniture isn’t cheap. And nothing’s worse than realizing it’s falling apart way faster than it should. The truth is, most folks are accidentally ruining their patio sets without even realizing it. A few bad habits are all it takes. Here’s what’s actually wrecking your furniture every summer—and what to stop doing before it gets worse.

Leaving Cushions Out Too Long

Those cushions aren’t meant to sit in the sun and rain 24/7. Even the “weatherproof” ones start fading, molding, and breaking down when they’re left out all the time.

If you’re not using them, stash them in a deck box or bring them inside. You’ll avoid nasty mildew stains and get a lot more years out of them.

Skipping Furniture Covers

A lot of people think covers are unnecessary, but they save your furniture. Sun, bird droppings, and rain will ruin finishes, fabrics, and even metal frames.

A decent cover costs way less than replacing a patio set. Throw it on when you’re done for the day, and you won’t be scrubbing or replacing things nearly as often.

Putting Furniture on Grass or Dirt

This one’s a fast way to wreck wood furniture. Moisture from the ground soaks into the legs and causes rot, warping, and damage you can’t fix.

Even metal frames can start rusting faster sitting in damp grass. Keep it on concrete, pavers, gravel, or anything that lets water drain away.

Using Harsh Cleaners

Bleach, degreasers, and random chemicals aren’t doing your furniture any favors. They strip finishes, ruin fabrics, and even corrode metal.

All you really need is a little dish soap and water for most things. White vinegar works great on mildew without ruining cushions or wood.

Letting It Bake in Full Sun

If your set’s sitting in full sun all day, don’t be shocked when the fabric fades and the frames start cracking. UV rays trash furniture fast.

Get some shade up—an umbrella, a shade sail, even moving it under a tree helps. And if nothing else, throw a cover on when you’re done using it.

Ignoring Storms and Wind

Lightweight chairs, cushions, and umbrellas don’t stand a chance in high winds. If you’ve ever seen your stuff fly across the yard, you know.

Stack it, tie it down, or move it somewhere safer when the weather gets rough. It beats paying to replace broken or bent pieces later.

Skipping Maintenance

Nothing lasts if you never take care of it. Wood needs resealing, metal needs rust spots sanded and repainted, and cushions need the occasional wash.

A little work once or twice a year keeps everything looking good and saves you a lot of money in the long run.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.