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How Outdoor Furniture Covers Can Extend the Life of Your Outdoor Furnishing

Outdoor furniture transforms backyards, patios, and terraces into inviting spaces for relaxation and entertainment. However, constant exposure to the elements can take a toll on even the most durable pieces, causing them to fade, rust, or deteriorate over time.

Whether it’s harsh sunlight, heavy rain, or winter snow, your outdoor furnishings are vulnerable to wear and tear that can shorten their lifespan. Fortunately, outdoor furniture covers provide an effective solution to shield your investment from the weather’s impact, keeping your furniture in pristine condition year-round.

In this guide, we’ll explore how the right covers not only protect your outdoor pieces but also minimize maintenance and extend their longevity—helping you enjoy your outdoor oasis for years to come.

Why Outdoor Furniture Needs Protection

Outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements, but over time, even the sturdiest materials can succumb to the harsh conditions they face. Without proper protection, exposure to sun, rain, wind, and snow can significantly reduce the lifespan of your outdoor furnishings. Here’s why:

• Sun Exposure and UV Damage: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration in fabrics, wood, and paint finishes. UV radiation breaks down materials at a molecular level, leading to weakened fibers, cracking, and brittleness. This is particularly damaging for cushions, umbrellas, and wooden furniture, which can dry out or warp under the sun’s rays.
• Rain and Moisture: Moisture is one of the biggest threats to outdoor furniture, particularly for wood and metal. When water seeps into wood, it can cause swelling, cracking, and rot. Metal furniture, especially iron, is prone to rust and corrosion when exposed to rain. Cushions and fabric can also develop mold and mildew if they don’t dry out properly, leading to unsightly stains and odors.
• Wind and Debris: Wind not only scatters dust and dirt but can also carry debris that scratches or dents your furniture. Strong gusts can cause lightweight pieces to topple over, leading to damage or even breakage.
• Snow and Extreme Cold: Cold temperatures and snow can wreak havoc on outdoor furniture. Wood can expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to cracks. Metal can become brittle in freezing conditions, and cushions left outside can freeze, causing the fabric and filling to degrade.

Without adequate protection, your outdoor furniture can deteriorate much faster, requiring frequent repairs or even replacement. Furniture covers provide a reliable barrier against these forces, preserving the integrity and appearance of your outdoor pieces for many seasons to come.

Types of Outdoor Furniture Covers

When it comes to protecting your outdoor furniture, the type of cover you choose makes all the difference. Different materials and features are designed to address specific weather conditions and furniture needs. Here are some of the most common types of outdoor furniture covers, each offering unique advantages:

1. Waterproof Covers

These are ideal for areas that experience frequent rain or snowfall. Made from heavy-duty materials such as vinyl or laminated polyester, waterproof covers prevent moisture from penetrating, protecting your furniture from rust, mold, and mildew.

Look for covers with sealed or taped seams to ensure no water leaks through during heavy rain. However, some waterproof covers can trap humidity, so it’s essential to pick a model that balances water resistance with breathability.

2. UV-Resistant Covers

Prolonged sun exposure can fade and damage outdoor furniture over time, especially wood, fabric, and plastic. UV-resistant covers are designed to block harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing fading and cracking.

These covers are typically made from treated polyester or acrylic fabrics, offering excellent protection without sacrificing breathability. UV-resistant covers are especially useful in hot and sunny climates where furniture is regularly exposed to the sun.

3. Breathable Fabric Covers

For those living in humid climates or with furniture prone to moisture buildup, breathable fabric covers are a splendid choice. These covers are often made from woven polyester or other porous materials that allow air to circulate, reducing condensation and preventing mold and mildew growth.

While they may not be completely waterproof, breathable covers strike a balance by allowing moisture to escape while still shielding furniture from light rain and dew.

4. Custom vs. Universal Fit Covers

When selecting outdoor furniture covers, you’ll encounter both custom and universal fit options. 

Custom fit covers are tailored to the exact dimensions of your furniture, ensuring maximum coverage and protection. While they may be more expensive, custom covers offer a snug fit that won’t shift in the wind. 

Universal fit covers, on the other hand, are more affordable and designed to fit a range of sizes and shapes. They’re a versatile choice for people with various furniture types, but may not offer the same level of precision as custom covers.

5. Features to Consider

Certain features can enhance the effectiveness and convenience of outdoor furniture covers:

• Adjustable straps or elastic hems help secure the cover, preventing it from blowing away in strong winds.
• Vents allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of condensation while maintaining breathability.
• Padded handles make it easier to remove and adjust the cover when needed.

Understanding the various types of outdoor furniture covers allows you to select the right one for your climate and specific furniture needs. Whether you're looking for waterproof, UV-resistant, or breathable options, investing in a high-quality cover will ensure your outdoor pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Key Benefits of Using Furniture Covers

Investing in outdoor furniture covers offers more than just surface-level protection. These covers act as an essential shield that extends the life of your outdoor pieces and reduces the effort required to maintain them. Here are some of the key benefits of using outdoor furniture covers:

1. Protection Against the Elements

The primary advantage of outdoor furniture covers is their ability to protect your furniture from harsh weather conditions. Whether it’s scorching sunlight, heavy rainfall, or winter snow, the right cover creates a barrier that shields your furniture from potential damage. This protection helps prevent:

• Fading and discoloration from UV exposure
• Rust and corrosion caused by rain or snow on metal furniture
• Warping or cracking in wooden furniture due to moisture

By minimizing exposure to these elements, covers prevent the gradual deterioration that shortens the lifespan of outdoor furniture.

2. Reduction in Cleaning and Maintenance

Outdoor furniture can easily accumulate dust, dirt, leaves, and bird droppings, all of which require regular cleaning. Covers help keep your furniture clean, so you don’t have to spend time scrubbing or hosing it down before every use. Additionally, covers reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning or refinishing by preventing grime from settling into cracks and crevices.

3. Prevention of Mold and Mildew

Moisture is a constant threat to outdoor furniture, especially cushions and fabric components that can trap water and become breeding grounds for mold and mildew. High-quality covers often come with features like breathable fabrics and protective linings that help wick away moisture and inhibit mold growth. By keeping your furniture dry, covers also help prevent unpleasant odors and unsightly stains caused by mildew.

4. Protection from Scratches and Debris

Wind can carry small rocks, sticks, and other debris that may scratch or damage your furniture. Covers act as a buffer, protecting your pieces from scratches, dents, and abrasions caused by debris and shifting items during strong winds. This benefit is especially useful for delicate or painted surfaces that can be easily marred.

5. Extended Lifespan of Furniture

By providing continuous protection from environmental factors and everyday wear and tear, outdoor furniture covers significantly extend the life of your outdoor furnishings. A well-covered piece of furniture will maintain its appearance and structural integrity for much longer than an uncovered piece. This can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs or replacements.

6. Convenience and Ease of Use

Modern outdoor furniture covers are designed for easy use, with features like adjustable straps, elastic hems, and built-in handles for quick application and removal. Many covers are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to store when not in use. Some even come with storage pouches for added convenience.

In short, outdoor furniture covers offer comprehensive protection, reducing the need for maintenance and helping your furniture last for years. Investing in quality covers ensures that your outdoor space remains both stylish and functional with minimal upkeep.

How to Choose the Right Cover for Your Outdoor Furniture

Choosing the right outdoor furniture cover is crucial for maximizing protection and ensuring a long lifespan for your furniture. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider several factors to find the cover that best suits your specific needs. Here’s what to keep in mind when making your choice:

1. Material Compatibility: 

The material of your outdoor furniture should heavily influence your choice of cover. Different furniture materials require different levels of protection:

Wood Furniture: Opt for covers that offer UV resistance to prevent fading and cracking, along with moisture protection to avoid swelling and warping.

• Metal Furniture: Choose waterproof and rust-resistant covers, especially for iron or steel furniture, which are prone to corrosion.
• Wicker or Rattan: These materials are sensitive to moisture and sun exposure. Covers made from breathable, UV-resistant fabrics are ideal to prevent fading and mold.
• Cushions and Upholstery: If you have outdoor cushions, look for covers with a breathable layer to avoid trapped moisture and mildew buildup.

By matching your cover material to your furniture type, you can better protect your investment.

2. Proper Sizing

Ensuring the right fit is key to effective protection. A cover that’s too loose may allow wind to get underneath, exposing your furniture to the elements, while a cover that’s too tight could stress seams or fail to cover certain areas. 

• Measure carefully: Take accurate measurements of your furniture, including height, width, and depth. Be sure to account for any cushions or additional features that might affect the fit.
• Leave some room: While you want a snug fit, it’s helpful to leave a little extra space for air circulation to prevent moisture buildup and allow for easier removal.

3. Climate Considerations

Your local climate plays a massive role in determining the type of cover you need:

• Wet climates: If you live in an area with frequent rain or humidity, a waterproof or water-resistant cover is essential to prevent rust, mildew, and water damage.
• Hot and sunny climates: UV-resistant covers are a must to protect against sun damage, fading, and cracking, especially for furniture made of wood or plastic.
• Cold or snowy climates: Covers with insulation properties or those that resist cracking in low temperatures are beneficial if your furniture will face harsh winter conditions.

Understanding the specific environmental challenges in your region will help guide your decision.

4. Additional Features

Certain features can make your outdoor furniture covers more effective and easier to use. Here are a few worth considering:

• Adjustable Straps or Drawstrings: These ensure a secure fit, preventing wind from blowing the cover off and keeping it in place during storms.
• Elastic Hems: Offer a snug fit around the bottom of the furniture, sealing out dirt and moisture.
• Vents: Built-in vents allow air to circulate, which helps prevent moisture buildup and condensation under the cover.
• Handles: Padded or built-in handles make it easier to remove and adjust the cover when needed.
• Storage Pouches : Some covers come with compact storage pouches, allowing for convenient storage when the cover isn’t in use.

 5. Quality Matters

Investing in high-quality covers ensures long-lasting protection. Look for durable materials like heavy-duty polyester or reinforced fabrics that can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements. Additionally, check the construction quality—sewn seams, for example, offer better durability than heat-welded seams, which may deteriorate over time.

Hammacher Schlemmer's Superior Outdoor Furniture Covers: A Premium Solution  

Unlike cheaper alternatives, Hammacher Schlemmer’s Superior Outdoor Furniture Covers are crafted from woven polyester fabric that won’t crack or peel over time. The 300-denier material forms an impenetrable barrier against dirt, rain, snow, and sunlight, while sewn edges provide superior strength compared to heat-welded seams.

These covers are also UV- and stain-resistant, with a protective lining to inhibit mold and mildew growth. Equipped with durable brass grommets and nylon cinch cords, they ensure a secure, snug fit, even in windy conditions. When not in use, the cover can be neatly stored in an included pouch. 

Hammacher Schlemmer's Range of Better Outdoor Furniture Covers

Unlike vinyl covers that tend to crack or peel over time, Hammacher Schlemmer’s exclusive Better Outdoor Furniture Covers are crafted from a durable, woven polyester fabric in Hunter Green that retains its integrity and color season after season. 

Made from pliant 300-denier material, these covers form a reliable barrier against dirt, rain, snow, and harmful UV rays. The reinforced, sewn edges offer superior seam strength, unlike heat-welded alternatives, making them ideal for long-term outdoor use. Resistant to heat, stains, and fading, the covers are lined to prevent mold and mildew growth

For a snug, secure fit, nylon cinch cords run through tough brass grommets, and when not in use, the cover stores neatly in its included pouch.

As a bonus, they all come with a Lifetime Guarantee of Satisfaction .

Selecting the right cover doesn’t just protect your outdoor furniture but also makes caring for your outdoor space easier. By considering these factors, you can find a cover that perfectly fits your outdoor furniture and shields it from the elements, ensuring your outdoor setup stays beautiful for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Maintain Your Outdoor Furniture Covers

Even with the best outdoor furniture covers, mistakes in their use can undermine their effectiveness.

One common mistake is selecting a cover that doesn’t fit properly. An ill-fitting cover, whether too loose or too tight, can leave parts of your furniture exposed or subject the material to unnecessary wear. Always measure your furniture before purchasing and choose a cover that offers a snug but breathable fit. 

Another error is neglecting regular maintenance of both your covers and the furniture beneath them. Even though covers provide excellent protection, it’s essential to periodically clean your furniture to prevent the buildup of dust or moisture that can lead to mold.

Clean the covers themselves with a mild detergent and let them dry completely before reusing them. This prevents mildew from forming and prolongs the cover’s lifespan.

Lastly, make sure your outdoor furniture covers are properly dry before folding them for storage, and avoid storing your covers in damp or unventilated areas. When not in use, ensure they’re folded and stored in a dry location—many covers, like Hammacher Schlemmer’s Superior Outdoor Furniture Covers, come with their own storage pouches for added convenience.

By avoiding these common pitfalls and following a simple maintenance routine, you can maximize the effectiveness of your furniture covers and enjoy your outdoor furnishings for years to come.

Tip: Also take extra care of wooden outdoor furniture. This is the Hammerach Schlemmer kit that preserves and protects outdoor wooden furniture . It comes with a 16 oz. bottle of fungicidal concentrate that cleans wood, a 16 oz. bottle of linseed oil that protects wood, two brushes, an oil applicator sponge and reusable oil container, a cotton cloth, a sheet of sandpaper for refinishing, and a pair of latex gloves.

Conclusion

Protecting your outdoor furniture with high-quality covers is a smart investment that pays off in durability, appearance, and ease of maintenance. By shielding your furniture from the harsh elements, you not only preserve its condition but also save time and money on repairs and replacements.

From preventing damage caused by sun, rain, and snow to reducing cleaning efforts, the benefits of using furniture covers are clear. 

Choosing the right cover involves understanding your furniture's material, selecting the proper size, and considering your local climate. With the proper cover in place, you can enjoy your outdoor space with peace of mind, knowing your furniture is well-protected.

Ready to safeguard your outdoor investments? Explore Hammacher Schlemmer’s extensive range of premium outdoor furniture covers designed to provide exceptional protection and durability. Visit our website to find the perfect cover for your furniture and keep your outdoor oasis looking pristine year-round. Don’t wait—invest in the best protection for your outdoor furnishings today! And while you're at it, why not take a detour to check out our new arrivals .