How to Protect and Preserve Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in Winter

Artificial wicker furniture is an ideal choice for outdoor premises due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, it is often chosen for outdoor areas like gardens, patios and balconies for its ability to blend in with natural settings. However, winter and its icy temperatures, heavy snowfalls and increased moisture do pose some risks to your artificial wicker furniture. But fret not, with a little effort and care, your beloved pieces can be well-preserved, ready to glam up your outdoor space when the weather warms up. In this article, we’ll walk you through some effective ways to protect your artificial wicker outdoor furniture in winter.

1. Clean Your Furniture

Before storing or covering your artificial wicker furniture for winter, it's important to clean it thoroughly. Wipe the pieces down with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or grime on the surface. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents as they can harm the finish.
If there are any stubborn stains or bird droppings, you can use a mild soapy solution to remove them. Rinse thoroughly and make sure that the furniture is dry before storing or covering it, as any remaining moisture can lead to mould growth.

2. Cover Up Your Furniture

Protect your artificial wicker furniture from harsh winter weather by investing in high-quality furniture covers. These covers should be waterproof, UV-resistant and breathable. A properly fitted cover will shield the furniture from freezing temperatures and snow while allowing moisture to escape, preventing mould formation.
Be sure to secure your covers tightly. Loose covers can flap in the wind, causing friction damage or allowing in moisture. Some outdoor furniture covers are equipped with tie-downs or drawstrings for secure attachment.

3. Store Your Furniture

If you have indoor space available such as a garage, shed or cellar, consider storing your wicker furniture indoors during winter. The controlled indoor environment can greatly protect your furniture against severe winter conditions.
When storing, it’s best to stack chairs or disassemble the furniture if possible, to optimise your storage space. Be sure to store cushions and fabric components separately, where they’ll stay dry.

4. Care for Cushions and Fabrics

Cushions, pillows, and other fabric components of your artificial wicker furniture should be given special attention because they are susceptible to mould and mildew development in moist, cold conditions. First, clean them using the manufacturer's instructions, then ensure they are fully dry before storing them.
Avoid storing fabric components in plastic bags or containers, which can trap moisture, leading to dampness and mildew growth. Instead, use breathable bags, or place them loosely in an airy cupboard.

5. Regular Maintenance

Even in winter, it's important to check on your outdoor furniture regularly. If you're using covers, lift them once in a while to see if any moisture has accumulated, and let the furniture breathe. Remove any snow or ice from the furniture as soon as possible, even if it is covered. Persistent pressure from a heavy layer of snow could potentially distort the shape of the furniture.

In a nutshell, protecting your artificial wicker furniture in winter is all about preventative measures and regular maintenance. By following the suggested steps, you can maintain the good condition of your furniture, and prolong its lifespan. Moreover, it saves you time, effort and, of course, money in the long run, by avoiding unnecessary repair or replacement. Therefore, it’s absolutely worth putting a little extra care in for your outdoor furniture in winter, to ensure you can enjoy your indoor-outdoor living all the year-round.

Remember, your artificial wicker outdoor furniture is crafted to be durable, and with your help, it can withstand even the harshest of winters. As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." So let's prepare now to welcome a cozy, damage-free spring!