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How to protect outdoor furniture

Outdoor couch with cushions and blankets.

Overview

Over the years, the winter rain and summer sun can damage your outdoor furniture. This guide shows you some of the simple things you can do at the start of each season to protect and restore your furniture so that you can enjoy it for years to come.

Steps

1Cover your furniture

The easiest way to look after your outdoor furniture is to cover them so that they are protected them from the wind, rain and sun. There are covers specifically designed for tables, patio heaters and umbrellas. If you don't have one of these, covering your outdoor furniture with a tarpaulin will also protect them from the elements.

A person putting a cover over an outdoor umbrella

2Oil or stain your furniture

An easy way to look after your wooden furniture and make it look great is to lightly sand it back and then apply an oil or stain to help protect it. There are a range of different colours and finishes to choose from. If you do this regularly, it won't take long each time you do it.  This will not only protect your wooden tables and chairs but also keep them looking new. 
A person holding several rolls of sandpaper

3Protect your pillows and cushion

A simple way to protect the pillows and cushions for your chairs and outdoor furniture is to keep them undercover when the winter weather and rain arrives. This can be as simple as storing them inside your home or in a shed or putting the cushions or pillows on a chair and pushing the chair under the table.

Outdoor couch with cushions and blankets.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.