Mistakes to avoid to extend the life of your outdoor furniture

1. Not choosing the right materials from the start

The choice of material is the first decision that determines the longevity of your garden furniture . Some materials, although aesthetic, are not always suited to the climatic conditions of your region. It is therefore essential to ask the right questions when purchasing, particularly regarding resistance to humidity, UV rays, temperature variations or even frost.

If you're looking for easy-to-live-with and sturdy furniture, aluminum furniture is often favored for its lightness, lack of rust, and weather resistance. It requires little maintenance, making it an excellent option for outdoor use. Conversely, wood requires regular care, although it adds undeniable character. Wicker garden furniture sets offer a good compromise between aesthetics and durability, provided you choose a high-quality, UV-resistant resin. Finally, steel or plastic furniture should be considered with caution depending on its exposure.

To prolong their lifespan, maintenance of aluminum garden furniture is minimal, while maintenance of woven resin garden furniture requires regular gentle cleaning and sheltered storage in winter.

2. Neglecting regular maintenance

Outdoor furniture, even when designed to withstand the elements, requires minimal maintenance to maintain its appearance and durability. The three-step process of cleaning, treating, and protecting must be applied regularly, especially at the change of season. Too often relegated to the background, garden furniture maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your tables, chairs, or deckchairs.

Good maintenance practices depending on the materials

• Wood: Apply a suitable oil or stain after light sanding to preserve the color and strength of the wood.
• Aluminum: Clean with a soft cloth and soapy water, without abrasive products, to avoid micro-scratches.
• Braided resin: Use a soft brush and mild soap to remove impurities without damaging the synthetic fibers.
• Exterior leather: dust regularly and apply a specific waterproofing protective cream to prevent cracking due to UV rays and humidity.

What product should I use to clean my garden furniture?

While specific products can be effective, natural solutions like diluted white vinegar or black soap remain valuable and economical allies. To clean a garden deckchair or outdoor table, avoid harsh detergents. Maintaining an aluminum garden table , for example, is ideally done with lukewarm water and a soft sponge, followed by air drying or a microfiber cloth.

3. Leaving your furniture unprotected during the winter

With the return of cold, rain, and frost, your outdoor furniture is exposed to extreme conditions. Too often, we forget them on the patio or in the garden, unprotected. However, this neglect can accelerate their deterioration. Here's how to avoid this common mistake and take the right steps before winter.

Why Winter Is the Worst Time for Your Furniture

Not anticipating the arrival of winter is one of the most common mistakes when owning outdoor furniture. Between constant humidity, frost, rain, and sometimes snow, the materials are put to the test. Even durable models eventually become damaged if they are left unprotected for several months.

How to protect your garden furniture in winter?

To avoid unpleasant surprises when the warmer weather returns, it's essential to prepare for storing your furniture. Ideally, store your furniture in a closed, dry shelter. If this isn't possible, raise it off the ground to limit rising damp and place it under a roof or awning. This precaution allows you to effectively cover your garden furniture and preserve its structure and appearance.

The importance of outdoor garden furniture covers

A cover is your best friend for getting through winter. Choose a model that fits the size of your garden furniture, made from a waterproof yet breathable material to prevent condensation. A well-fitting, UV-resistant cover with sturdy fasteners will limit water infiltration and dirt. Choosing a quality outdoor garden furniture cover extends the life of your furniture and limits the maintenance required in the spring.

4. Forgetting to maintain them after each season

The right thing to do to ensure the longevity of your outdoor furniture? A complete garden furniture maintenance at the end of each season of use. Too often neglected, this routine allows you to detect the first signs of wear, anticipate repairs, and maintain the aesthetics of your furniture year after year.

In the fall, before storing or covering, it is advisable to carry out a thorough cleaning, tighten the screws, check the hinges and apply the necessary treatments depending on the materials (oil for wood, anti-rust protection for metal, etc.).

In the spring, a second check-up ensures that the furniture is in good condition before reusing it. This is also an opportunity to repair any damage caused by frost or winter humidity. If your furniture is installed near a swimming pool, remember to remove any chlorine, salt, or sand residue, which can dull the surfaces or damage the seals.

5. Neglecting accessories and textiles

We often think about protecting the furniture itself, but accessories like cushions, rugs, and parasols are just as susceptible to external aggressions. Neglecting their maintenance or storage can not only alter their appearance, but also have a direct impact on the durability of the furniture they accompany.

Textiles and accessories: elements not to be underestimated

Outdoor cushions , chair covers, and patio rugs trap moisture, dust, and dirt. Without regular cleaning and proper storage, they wear out quickly and can even damage the furniture's structure through moisture migration or mold.

Protect with the right equipment

Use waterproof covers to cover cushions and parasols, or store them in a designated storage box. A simple furniture care routine for textiles helps prevent fading, odors, and persistent stains. Also consider UV-resistant treatments to prolong their shine.

Impeccable furniture with tarnished or stained accessories loses all its appeal. Maintaining textiles also helps preserve the harmony and aesthetic quality of your outdoor space. It's a habit to adopt with each change of season to maintain a welcoming and well-kept atmosphere.