Summer is the season for sunshine, barbecues, and relaxing outdoors—and your outdoor chairs play a key role in creating that perfect backyard or patio vibe. But the sun, rain, wind, and even dirt can quickly wear down your furniture if you don’t take steps to protect it.
Without the right care, outdoor chairs can fade, rust, crack, or become uncomfortable. That’s why regular maintenance is essential. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips to help you extend the life of your outdoor chairs and keep them in top shape all season long.
Keep Outdoor Chairs Clean
Dirt, pollen, and grime may seem harmless, but over time, they can wear down outdoor furniture surfaces and even trap moisture, leading to mold or rust.
1. Cleaning tips by material:
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Wooden chairs: Wipe with a damp cloth and apply wood sealant.
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Metal chairs: Wash with mild soap and dry completely. Use a rust-preventive spray.
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Fabric cushions: Clean according to care instructions and let them dry fully.
Regular cleaning helps preserve appearance, comfort, and durability.
2. Use Protective Covers
Furniture covers are a quick and effective way to prevent sun, rain, and dust damage when your chairs are not in use.
Cover tips:
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Choose weather-resistant materials like polyester or vinyl.
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Ensure the cover fits snugly—not too tight or loose—to avoid moisture buildup or wind damage.
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Use tie-downs or elastic edges for security.
3. Store Your Chairs During the Off-Season
When summer ends, storing your chairs properly can help them last for years. Winter weather, especially snow and ice, can damage most outdoor furniture materials.
Storage options:
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Indoors: Keep in a garage, shed, or basement if possible.
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Outdoors: Use weatherproof storage boxes or elevated platforms with covers.
Also make sure your storage area is pest-free and well-ventilated.
4. Apply Protective Coatings
Adding a layer of protection can significantly slow down wear and tear from the elements.
Coating methods:
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For wood: Use a water-repellent sealant to prevent swelling, cracking, and rot.
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For metal: Apply rust-resistant paint or spray to fight corrosion.
5. Choose Durable Materials
If you’re buying new outdoor chairs, choosing the right materials is key to long-term durability and minimal upkeep.
Recommended materials:
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Teak, acacia, or eucalyptus: Long-lasting hardwoods resistant to moisture.
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Aluminum or powder-coated steel: Lightweight and rust-resistant.
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Synthetic rattan or resin wicker: Stylish and built to withstand the elements.
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Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics: Fade-resistant and water-repellent for cushions.
Keep Your Outdoor Chairs Looking Great All Summer
A few simple habits—like cleaning, covering, and storing your chairs—can save you time, money, and frustration. Take good care of your outdoor furniture, and it will reward you with comfort, style, and durability for many seasons to come.
These statistics reinforce why proper care for your outdoor furniture is worth the effort:
- Regular cleaning can extend the life of outdoor furniture by up to 50%.
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75% of homeowners who use protective covers see better longevity of outdoor items.
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40% of homeowners who stored their outdoor furniture during winter reported a 30% increase in its lifespan.
- Using protective coatings can extend the lifespan of wood furniture by 2–3 years and reduce mold risk by 70%.
Looking for outdoor chairs that are stylish, durable, and built for summer?
Check out our curated collection of weather-ready designs — Shop Now