You’ve spent a lot of time and money creating the perfect outdoor space for your home.
Why let the elements ravage what you’ve created?
Without the proper protection, your beautiful furniture could look weathered well before its time.
That’s where outdoor furniture covers come to the rescue.
Read on as we discuss the ins and outs of choosing the right outdoor furniture covers to protect your patio or garden furniture from an early death.
Why you need covers
Even if you’ve got a place to store your furniture out of the weather it makes sense to keep your pieces covered when they’re not in use.
Rain, dust, UV rays, bird droppings and the occasional animal desecration are all potential threats to your investment. Outdoor furniture covers act as a shield, safeguarding your furniture against these elements.
In addition, they’ll help you expand the lifetime of your outdoor furniture.
Types of outdoor furniture covers
When it comes to outdoor furniture covers, one size doesn’t fit all. There are different types of covers to choose from, each designed for a specific purpose.
Considerations when choosing the right outdoor furniture cover include the weather where you live, and whether or not you have a place to store your furniture out of the elements.
Look for water proof covers that are both UV and tear resistant for the best overall coverage. And of course, get covers that are breathable to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Sizing and fit
A well-fitting cover is crucial to ensure your furniture stays protected. Carefully measure your furniture, taking care to include any extra features like table extensions or high-back chairs.
There are both custom made and universal-fit covers on the market. While custom-fit covers offer an exact fit, universal-fit covers are more versatile if you have furniture in different shapes and sizes.
Material
The material of your outdoor furniture cover is important. Polyester, vinyl, and canvas are the most common materials used for outdoor furniture covers.
Each material comes with its own pros and cons.
For example, polyester covers are lightweight and budget-friendly, but they may not be as durable as vinyl or canvas. As noted above, think about your climate when choosing a cover.
If you have a lot of harsh weather, go with the most durable material you can afford. This will prevent the need to buy new covers every couple of yeas.
Additional features
Outdoor furniture covers often come with additional features that can add to their effectiveness. Features like drawstrings, tie-downs, and vents are worth considering. Drawstrings and tie-downs help secure the cover in windy conditions, while vents promote airflow, preventing condensation and mold growth.
Maintenance and cleaning
To help your outdoor furniture covers last as long as possible, it’s important to keep them well maintained.
While you should check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning guidelines, generally, most covers can be cleaned with mild soap and water and left hung to air dry.
Budget
Going cheap is an option, but it might work against you in the long run. For the best results, find a balance between quality and budget.
It might seem more expensive to go with higher-quality covers, but they can save you money in the long run by prolonging the life of your furniture. Consider it an investment in protecting your outdoor furniture and preserving its appearance.
Check reviews and ask for recommendations
Before you buy, read reviews and ask people you trust what they would recommend. Look for recommendations on specific brands and products that have received positive feedback.
Remember…protecting your furniture with high-quality covers is a small investment that can lead to significant savings in the long term.
So, go ahead and select the perfect covers to ensure you and your family will enjoy your outdoor oasis year after year, season after season.
Quick Tips for Storing Outdoor Furniture
