How to Prepare Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture for Winter

As we welcome the cool change of winter in Australia, it’s important that we don’t forget about our loved outdoor environments. Specifically, our beloved outdoor furniture that has served us well during barbeque Sundays or lazy afternoons sprawled out soaking up the sun. Artificial wicker outdoor furniture, while tough and durable, can greatly benefit from a little bit of TLC to ensure it withstands the chilly season. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps of preparing your artificial wicker outdoor furniture for winter.

Cleaning your Furniture

Step one in your pre-winter furniture prep is giving your pieces a good clean. With the combination of summer sunshine and regular use, dirt, grime and outdoor elements can build up on your outdoor furniture.

Here's a handy step by step guide:
1. Begin by giving your furniture a thorough dusting with a soft bristle brush to remove the loose dirt and debris.
2. Mixing a simple solution of warm water and dishwashing soap can create an effective cleaning solution.
3. Using a soft cloth, gently clean the furniture with the soapy water.
4. Once clean, rinse with a hose on a gentle spray setting to prevent damaging the wicker.
5. Towel dry or let it air dry, but make sure it's completely dry before storing or covering.

Checking for Damage

The off-season is an ideal time to inspect your artificial wicker furniture for any potential damage. Look for signs of wear and tear, loose wicker threads, and discolouration. Minor issues can turn into major problems if left untreated, especially during winter when the weather can exacerbate existing damage.

If you catch little signs of damage early, like a wicker strand starting to unwind, a simple fix like using a strong adhesive can prevent the strand from unwinding further. If there are larger areas of damage, it might be worthwhile to consider professional repair.

Cover, Store or Both

Once your artificial wicker furniture is clean and in good condition, the next step is to decide whether you want to cover your pieces, store them or do a combination of both.

Covering your furniture can be a great option if you don't have enough storage space, plan on using your furniture occasionally during winter, or if your furniture is too large to store indoors. When buying covers, ensure they are made from waterproof material and specifically designed for the type of furniture you have.

Storing your furniture indoors will give maximum protection from the weather. Garages, sheds or even under stairs can be perfect storage spots. If possible, avoid storing your furniture in places with high humidity as this can lead to mould.

If neither of these options is ideal for you, consider a combination of both. You could store smaller pieces or cushions indoors and cover larger items that might be more difficult to move.

Protect Cushions and Fabrics

Don’t neglect the cushions that make your wicker furniture so comfortable! Cushions and other fabric parts of outdoor furniture need care too. Start by giving them a good clean, removing dust and any spot stains. Ensure fabric is completely dry before storage to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Store cushions in a dry, indoor environment. If you don’t have adequate indoor space, consider purchasing a deck box for your outdoor area. They’re designed to keep the contents dry and protected from the elements.

So there you have it! Preparing your artificial wicker outdoor furniture for winter doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little bit of effort in cleaning, inspecting, covering or storing, you can ensure your outdoor setting will be ready to embrace another beautiful Australian summer. Remember, if you care for it well, it will serve you for many years to come.

Till next time, enjoy the winter and keep warm!