Protect Outdoor Furniture for Winter

As winter approaches, it’s time to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements to keep it looking great and ready for next season. Snow, ice, and moisture can cause rust, corrosion, and general wear. With a few simple steps and the right Gear Hugger products, you can easily winterize your patio setup. Here’s how to give your outdoor furniture a winter-ready shield using our eco-friendly Degreaser, Multipurpose Lubricant, and Rust Protection.

1. Give It a Good Clean

Over time, grease, oils, and debris can cause deterioration, especially when exposed to winter conditions. Start by removing any dirt, grime, or residue that could damage your furniture over winter. Our plant-based Degreaser is perfect for cleaning off buildup without using harmful chemicals or damaging surfaces.

• Spray Throughly: Apply the Degreaser to metal, plastic, or wooden surfaces and let it sit for a couple of minutes to loosen any grime.
• Wipe Down: Use a cloth or sponge to wipe away dirt and grease, revealing a fresh surface ready for winter.
• Use for: Patio furniture with metal frames, such as aluminum or steel. Plastic or Resin materials that often collect dirt, bird droppings, or tree sap. Wooden slats thatcan get sticky or gummy with moisture.

Cleaning your furniture before storage eliminates buildup and makes it easier to refresh in the spring.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts

Outdoor furniture with moving parts—like folding chairs, reclining lounge chairs, or umbrella stands—requires lubrication to prevent stiffness over the winter months. Without proper lubrication, parts can freeze or become corroded when exposed to moisture. Our Multipurpose Lubricant keeps parts moving smoothly with a plant-based, non-toxic formula that is safe for your kids, pets and the planet.

• Lubricate Hinges and Joints: Apply a small amount to hinges, adjustable joints, or any moving components like wheels. This keeps them from getting stiff and makes them easier to use next season.
• Use for: Folding chairs and tables, swivel or rocking chairs, patio umbrella stands with a crank or tilt mechanism

This natural, non-toxic formula is safe for your home and the environment, making it perfect for long-term use.

3. Guard Against Rust

Metal furniture, such as wrought iron or steel patio sets, is especially vulnerable to rust. When left out in the elements moisture can seep into the material, causing oxidation and corrosion. Using a rust protector on all exposed surfaces helps ward off rust and corrosion by forming a long-lasting barrier the repels moisture to prevent rust from forming. Gear Hugger is a plant-based and non-toxic solution to protect metal furniture over the winter.

• Apply to Metal Surfaces: Spray Rust Protection on metal frames, legs, and bolts to prevent rust formation. This formula displaces moisture and provides a durable shield against the harsh winter.
• Don’t Forget Smaller Parts: Remember to spray any screws, bolts, or smaller metal fixtures on your furniture to keep them rust-free and in great condition.
• Use for: Metal tables and chairs including frames and legs, metal fire pits, grills, gardening tools and other outdoor equipment.

4. Cover and Store Properly 

If you have the space, storing your furniture in a shed, garage, or under a protective cover is always the best option for protecting it from the harsh winter weather. This will protect it from heavy snowfall, ice and rain to prevent any damage from harsh weather. 

If storage isn’t an option, be sure to use high-quality furniture covers and ensure that they are dry before placing them over your furniture to avoid trapping moisture, which could lead to mold or mildew. When treated with Gear Hugger Lubricant and Rust Protection you get an extra layer of defense even if the covers come off. 

5. Check Your Cushions & Fabrics

Outdoor cushions and fabric furniture are often the most vulnerable to winter weather. Exposure to snow, ice, and even extended rain can cause mildew, fading, and wear and tear. While Gear Hugger’s products are perfect for cleaning and protecting hard surfaces like metal and wood, for fabric furniture, it's best to use a fabric-specific cleaner and water-repellent spray. Be sure to store cushions indoors during the winter months to prevent them from getting damaged by the cold.

6. Repeat Seasonal Maintenance

Winterizing your outdoor furniture isn't a one-time event. For extended protection, consider reapplying the multipurpose lubricant and rust protection every season, especially after cleaning your furniture or after it has been exposed to significant weather. Regular maintenance helps keep your furniture looking fresh, functional, and free from rust and damage.

Our products are safe for you, your family, and the environment, making them a smart choice for your winterizing routine. Whether you're preparing your furniture for the cold, protecting your gear from rust, or simply giving your patio a seasonal refresh your furniture is in good hands with Gear Hugger!

For more sustainable home maintenance tips, check out our Eco-Living Guide for easy swaps in your home, garage, and gear!