According to Google Trends, searches for ‘waterproof outdoor cushions’ and ‘how to clean outdoor furniture’ have increased by 5,000% compared to last month, highlighting growing interest among homeowners in caring for and protecting their outdoor furniture.
Read on to discover dos and don’ts from Jonny Brierley, Managing Director at British outdoor furniture brand Numa, on protecting and caring for your outdoor furniture this summer and autumn, from the basics of choosing the right furniture to the best ways to clean and care for it.
Opt for materials that can stand the temperamental English weather
Jonny Brierley, Managing Director of NUMA, shares, “Materials make a huge difference. Heavy-duty aluminium, for example, is incredibly durable outdoors and can withstand the unpredictable UK weather conditions. Prioritise durable materials alongside stain-resistant fabrics that are easy to clean, so the furniture looks good season after season.”
Tackle damp with mould-resistant fabrics
Brierley notes, “Standard outdoor cushions act like sponges, trapping water and staying damp for days. Opt for durable cushions with weatherproof properties, such as cushions with specialised open-cell porous foam. This allows rainwater to permeate the surface and drain through the bottom of the unit rapidly. In most cases, your furniture is dry and ready for guests just an hour after a heavy downpour.”
“Durable outdoor materials should be designed for maximum airflow; materials that don’t just dry fast – they stay fresh.” Says Brierley, “At Numa, our cushions are filled with open-cell porous foam. The open-cell structure prevents stagnant moisture that leads to mould, mildew, and unpleasant odours. This makes it a hygienic choice for humid environments or gardens with high tree cover where moisture often lingers.”
The do’s and don’ts of protecting your outdoor furniture, by Jonny Brierley
Do: Clean your outdoor furniture with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Don’t: Avoid placing hot objects directly on the furniture surfaces.
Do: Use coasters and placemats to protect against spills and stains.
Do: Store cushions indoors when not in use for extended periods.
Do: Cover furniture during harsh weather conditions.
Do: Regularly check and tighten any screws or bolts.
Do: If you need to move your furniture, lift it rather than dragging it to avoid scratching your patio or deck.
