Stop Wasting Money on Outdoor Furniture Every Autumn — Here’s How to Do It Right

Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Display at Barker and Stonehouse, shares her Autumn outdoor furniture checklist:

“The most common mistake I see people doing is leaving garden furniture exposed to the elements for long periods without any protection. Even the most weather-resistant pieces benefit from a good quality cover. Another overlooked habit is basic seasonal TLC. Things like tightening up fixtures, applying a protective treatment, or giving it an all over clean. We’d never ignore our sofas indoors for months on end, and outdoor furniture deserves the same care if you want it to last.”

“There’s a growing awareness among homeowners, not just about how a piece looks, but how it performs year-round. Powder-coated aluminium, synthetic rattan, and FSC-certified hardwoods like teak have all become popular for their durability. That said, style, comfort, and versatility still lead most buying decisions. People want something beautiful and practical, and that’s pushing manufacturers to innovate with all-weather finishes and low-maintenance designs.”

“It’s important to have a regular care and cleaning checklist to keep your garden furniture at optimum condition. In autumn, I always recommend a thorough clean using a soft brush and mild soapy water, followed by a protective treatment if it’s wood or metal. Tighten any screws or fittings, cover the set, and store it if you can.”

“Just like with heat, prolonged exposure to moisture can take its toll on wooden garden furniture. Rain can seep into the grain and cause swelling, warping or even rot over time if not properly treated.

“To help your wooden pieces withstand rainy weather, apply a PU coating to acacia wood at least once a year. This helps repel water and keep the surface looking its best. Regularly check for signs of mildew or discolouration, and sand back any rough patches before re-finishing.”

Use covers and elevate or store items away where possible

Lena says,“In the event of heavy rainfall or even mild flooding in Autumn, your best defence is prevention. If possible, store outdoor furniture in a dry, sheltered place such as a shed or garage. If that’s not an option, invest in high-quality, breathable covers designed for outdoor use.

Try to keep items raised off the ground using furniture feet or risers to allow airflow and reduce direct contact with standing water. Avoid plastic sheeting or non-breathable materials, as these can trap moisture and increase the risk of mould or mildew.”

Protect soft furnishings and avoid water pooling

Lena says,“Outdoor cushions, rugs and fabric accessories are particularly vulnerable during wet weather. These should always be stored indoors or in a waterproof storage box when not in use.

We recommend using suitable cushion bags for optimum protection; however, polythene bags should be avoided as they can cause mould. Cushions should not be kept beneath protective furniture covers for extended periods either, as this can lead to water stains.”

“With our weather becoming more unpredictable, including heavy rain, and high winds, it’s important to choose furniture that’s both stylish and resilient. Look for UV-resistant finishes, quick-dry cushions, rust-proof frames, and easy-clean surfaces. It’s important to always read the care label, too. A beautiful set is an investment, and a little research goes a long way in making sure it suits your garden, and your lifestyle, all year round.”