Cleveland winters bring freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and wind that can ruin outdoor furniture left unprotected.
To keep your patio furniture looking great year after year, store delicate pieces indoors, secure or cover sturdy ones outdoors, and prep all materials—wood, metal, plastic, and fabric—to handle the freeze.
This guide explains which items can safely stay outside, which should move indoors, and how to properly winterize your outdoor setup before the snow arrives.
Why Winter Prep Matters
Cleveland’s lake-effect snow, ice, and long freeze-thaw cycles are tough on outdoor materials. Moisture seeps into cracks, freezes, expands, and weakens finishes and joints. UV rays bouncing off snow can fade colors. Even rust-resistant metals can corrode under wet snowpacks.
Taking a few simple steps in late fall can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in replacement costs come spring. The goal isn’t just to protect your furniture’s appearance but to preserve its structure and lifespan.
What to Store Indoors
Some patio pieces simply aren’t built to survive a full Cleveland winter outdoors. If you have storage space, these are the first to move inside:
1. Cushions, Pillows, and Fabrics
Outdoor fabrics are weather-resistant, not weather-proof.
Snow and ice melt can penetrate seams and stuffing, leading to mildew, fading, and rot. Even quick-dry foam can freeze and crack over months of cold.
Best storage:
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Clean and fully dry all fabric pieces.
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Store them in a garage, basement, or storage bin where they can stay ventilated and moisture-free.
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Avoid sealing them in plastic bags, which can trap condensation.
2. Wicker and Rattan
Natural wicker absorbs moisture easily, and synthetic versions can become brittle in freezing weather.
If left out, they can warp or unravel when the temperature swings.
Move these indoors or at least under a covered porch.
3. Glass-Top Tables
Cleveland’s winter winds and hail can shatter or chip glass. The freeze-thaw cycle also loosens the fittings that secure glass to frames.
It’s safest to remove the glass panels and store them flat inside—wrapped in a blanket or cardboard for protection.
4. Lightweight Plastic Furniture
Plastic can technically stay outdoors, but cold weather makes it brittle and more likely to crack under the weight of snow or ice.
Stack and move lightweight sets indoors or to a shed if you can.
What Can Stay Outside (With Some Help)
Some materials can endure an Ohio winter outdoors if they’re properly cleaned, covered, and elevated off the ground.
1. Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Steel, or Wrought Iron)
Metal is durable but vulnerable to rust—especially with the salt and moisture Cleveland winters bring.
To prepare:
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Wash and dry each piece.
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Touch up any scratches or rust spots with rust-resistant paint.
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Apply a thin coat of car wax or a corrosion inhibitor to create a water-shedding barrier.
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Use breathable covers that allow condensation to escape.
If your furniture is cast aluminum (rust-free by nature), you can leave it outside under a cover. Steel and wrought iron last longer when stored in a garage or shed.
2. Teak and Other Hardwood Furniture
High-quality hardwoods like teak, ipe, and acacia are naturally resistant to moisture and rot—but even they need care.
Before winter:
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Clean the wood to remove dirt and pollen.
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Apply a penetrating sealer or teak oil to help repel moisture.
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Store cushions separately and keep furniture covered.
If left uncovered, even teak will gray faster and may develop surface cracks from Cleveland’s repeated freezing and thawing.
3. All-Weather Resin and Polywood
Resin and recycled-plastic lumber furniture can stay outside year-round, though color fading can occur.
To protect it:
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Wash it down with mild soap and water.
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Dry completely to prevent moisture freezing in joints.
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Cover it if possible to limit snow accumulation and UV exposure.
Polywood and similar materials handle cold well but can still become brittle if exposed to deep freezes without airflow.
How to Prepare Your Patio for Winter
Even if you’re storing or covering your furniture, the area itself needs prep work to prevent damage.
1. Clean Everything First
Before storage or covering, scrub off dirt, pollen, and bird droppings.
Leaving grime on furniture gives mold and mildew something to feed on all winter.
2. Dry Thoroughly
Never cover or store damp items. Moisture trapped under a cover will create condensation that freezes, expands, and ruins finishes. Allow a sunny afternoon for everything to air-dry.
3. Elevate and Secure
If furniture must stay outdoors:
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Keep it off soil or grass to prevent water absorption and rust. Use wood blocks, pavers, or your deck.
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Tie down or weight covers to prevent them from blowing away in a Cleveland windstorm.
4. Cover Correctly
Use breathable outdoor furniture covers that fit snugly but not tightly. Avoid tarps—they trap moisture and cause mildew. Look for vents or mesh panels that allow airflow while keeping snow off.
5. Prepare the Ground
If furniture sits on a patio or deck, sweep away leaves and debris before snow falls. Decaying leaves can stain wood or concrete and hold moisture against metal furniture legs.
What Happens If You Don’t Protect It
Cleveland homeowners often underestimate the damage a single winter can do. Here’s what typically happens when patio furniture is left exposed:
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Fabric: Fades, stiffens, and grows mold.
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Wood: Cracks, warps, or splits.
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Metal: Develops rust and corrosion at welds or joints.
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Plastic: Turns brittle and may break under snow weight.
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Glass: Can chip or shatter from temperature stress.
In just one winter, even high-end furniture can lose years of life and much of its resale or aesthetic value.
What to Do in Spring
When spring returns, your preparation will pay off.
For items stored indoors, remove covers and inspect for moisture or mildew. For items kept outside, uncover them only after overnight temperatures stay above freezing.
Clean with mild soap, rinse, and allow to dry in the sun. Re-oil wood furniture, tighten bolts, and refresh sealants if needed before setting everything back up.
FAQ: Patio Furniture Winter Care in Cleveland
Q: When should I start winterizing my patio furniture?
Aim for late October through early November—before the first freeze and while the weather is dry enough for cleaning and sealing.
Q: Can I leave a metal dining set outside all winter?
Yes, but only if it’s rust-resistant aluminum or stainless steel and kept under breathable covers. Wrought iron should be stored inside if possible.
Q: Should I cover my furniture if it’s on a covered porch?
Yes. Snow can still blow in, and moisture from condensation can collect on cold nights. Covers add an extra layer of protection.
Q: What about outdoor rugs or umbrellas?
Roll up rugs and bring them inside; they trap moisture and mildew. Umbrellas should be cleaned, dried, and stored horizontally indoors to prevent warping.
Q: Can I use plastic tarps as covers?
Not recommended. They trap moisture and create condensation that causes mold, corrosion, or wood rot.