Cover outdoor furniture only after it is fully clean and dry, then secure the cover so wind can’t lift it and moisture can’t pool underneath.
For the full breakdown, see our best Backyard Furniture Covers guide.
Learning how to cover outdoor furniture properly is about more than draping a tarp over your patio set. Done wrong, a cover traps damp air and turns a harmless off-season into a mold farm. Done right, it buys years of extra life from cushions, frames, and tabletops. The short version: start with clean, dry furniture, use a cover that fits, and check on it periodically so hidden condensation doesn’t undo all your work.
Cover Only Clean, Dry Furniture
Putting a cover over dirty or damp furniture is the fastest way to grow mold. Residue from pollen, bird droppings, or spills stays trapped against the surface under a warm, humid cover — a perfect breeding ground. Hose off loose debris first, then wipe furniture dry or let it air-dry completely before covering. For long stretches like winter, give a final once-over to confirm no moisture hides in crevices or under cushions.
Choose the Right Cover and Fit
A properly fitted cover is your first line of defense. Covers too large let wind bunch fabric into pockets where water collects and can chafe surfaces, wearing through finish. Too-small covers strain at seams and leave parts exposed. Measure width, depth, and height before buying, and look for drawstrings, buckles, or elastic hems that pull fabric snug. Material matters: breathable fabrics like polyester with a waterproof coating let trapped moisture escape while keeping rain out, whereas non-breathable plastic can bake condensation onto cushions.
Wind is the other fit factor. A loose cover acts like a sail, and flapping rubs fabric against frame edges, tearing the cover itself. Fasten all straps and clips; if no tie-downs exist, run a bungee cord across the top or weight the base with a brick or sandbag. Take extra care in exposed, windy spots — that’s where most damage happens. Avoid dragging covers across sharp corners or abrasive stone, as small tears grow into leaks.
How to Clean and Maintain the Cover Itself
Cover care mirrors furniture care: keep it clean and dry.
Before storing a cover for the season, ensure it’s fully dry. Folding a damp cover traps moisture in creases, producing mildew that spreads in spring. Hang it in the sun for an hour or two after washing, then fold loosely and store indoors if possible. While the cover works outdoors, check every few weeks for moisture buildup — lift a corner, feel the fabric’s underside, and inspect cushions for damp patches. Some guides suggest airing the cover on a dry day to release trapped humidity. Catching problems early is easier than cleaning a mold outbreak from cushions.
When a Cover Is Not Enough
Covers handle rain, sun, and dust but don’t replace common sense in extreme conditions. In heavy snow, clear accumulation periodically so weight doesn’t strain frames or stretch fabric. In brutal UV climates, choose a cover with UV-resistant treatment, since even good covers degrade after intense summers. If furniture already has mold or mildew, clean and treat it before covering — sealing an existing problem gives it a dark, humid place to spread. Routine attention keeps furniture and cover working for years, starting with one habit: never cover anything that isn’t clean and bone-dry.
References & Sources
- Restoration Hardware. “Outdoor Furniture Covers Care Sheet.” Official care instructions for cleaning and maintaining outdoor furniture covers.
- IKEA. “Tosteroe Furniture Cover Care Instructions.” Manufacturer guidance on washing, drying, and storing outdoor covers.
- Poly-Wood. “Textile Upholstery of Outdoor Furniture Care Guide.” Advice on preventing mold and moisture buildup under furniture covers.
FAQs
Should I cover outdoor furniture every night?
Covering nightly is only necessary if you expect rain, dew, or heavy pollen. In dry conditions, leaving furniture uncovered is fine and lets air circulate. The key is never covering damp furniture, so if you cover nightly, wipe down surfaces each evening before putting the cover on.
Can I put outdoor furniture away wet and cover it?
No. Covering wet or damp furniture traps moisture against cushions and frames, inviting mold, mildew, and fabric rot. Always let furniture dry completely before covering. If rain is coming and furniture is wet, leave it uncovered until dry, then cover — rather than sealing in damp.
How often should I check under my furniture cover?
Lift a corner and feel for condensation, damp cushions, or musty odors. Airing the cover and furniture on a dry day prevents trapped moisture from developing into mold, so add that quick inspection to your seasonal routine.
