Outdoor Furniture Care

There’s nothing quite like dining alfresco, especially during the warmer months when your outdoor space becomes an extension of your home. But keeping your outdoor furniture looking great? That’s another story.

At Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we know that the key to enjoying your outdoor space for years to come is taking care of the furniture and cushions that make it comfortable. Outdoor furniture is an investment, and just like any investment, proper maintenance is essential to keep it looking and performing its best. Whether your furniture is wood, metal, plastic, or wicker, a little care goes a long way in protecting it from the elements. Here are our top tips to keep your outdoor furniture in top shape year after year.

Invest in High-Quality Outdoor Fabric

When it comes to outdoor cushions, don’t skimp on fabric quality. Choosing a high-performance fabric, like Sunbrella, Perennials, or Outdura, ensures your cushions resist fading, mildew, and general wear and tear. Our custom cushions are exclusively designed to withstand the elements while maintaining their beauty and comfort.

Provide Shade for Your Furniture

The sun is one of the biggest threats to outdoor furniture, causing fading, warping, and cracking over time. Investing in a pergola, umbrella, or canopy can significantly extend the life of your furniture by minimizing direct sun exposure. If a permanent shade structure isn’t an option, consider positioning furniture under a large tree or along the shaded side of your home.

Protect Furniture from Rain and Moisture

Even the highest-quality outdoor furniture can deteriorate if left exposed to rain for extended periods. If a storm is coming, cover your furniture with waterproof covers or move it to a covered patio if possible. Silicone or rubber furniture pads are also great for keeping furniture legs off wet surfaces, reducing the risk of water damage.

Store Cushions and Accessories Properly

Even weather-resistant cushions will last longer if stored properly. A waterproof storage box or a covered patio is an excellent place to keep cushions and throw pillows when they’re not in use. This prevents mold, mildew, and excessive wear from constant exposure to the elements.

Maintain Furniture Covers

Furniture covers provide excellent protection, but they need care too. Keep them clean by washing them with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. For extra protection, apply a UV-protectant spray to both covers and furniture to prevent fading and deterioration.

Caring for Different Outdoor Furniture Materials

Teak and Other Hardwoods

Teak is a top choice for outdoor furniture because of its natural resistance to weather, but over time, it will develop a gray patina if left untreated. To maintain its warm honey color, use a teak sealer once or twice a year. Other hardwoods, like eucalyptus and acacia, also benefit from protective wood sealants to prevent drying and cracking.

Plastic Furniture

Plastic furniture is lightweight and easy to maintain but can become brittle with prolonged sun exposure. Clean it regularly with mild soap and water, and use a plastic restorer to keep it looking fresh. Avoid abrasive brushes that can scratch the surface.

Wicker Furniture

Traditional wicker is prone to breaking down in harsh weather, so it’s best kept in covered areas. For routine cleaning, vacuum dust and debris from crevices, and wash with a mild soap solution. If you have synthetic wicker, it is much more weather-resistant but still benefits from occasional cleaning and UV protectants.

Metal Furniture

Aluminum furniture is rust-proof and requires little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. Wrought iron and steel furniture, however, are susceptible to rust and should be coated with protective wax or rust-resistant spray paint to keep them looking their best.

At Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we believe that outdoor living should be as comfortable and stylish as indoor living. By following these simple maintenance tips, you’ll protect your investment and ensure that your outdoor space remains inviting for years to come.

Looking for custom outdoor cushions to refresh your space? Browse our collection today and let us help you create the perfect outdoor oasis!