Your outdoor furniture works hard through summer. In the sunshine, at BBQs & outdoor events. But when the colder months roll in, it deserves a little TLC.

Here’s your guide to weather proofing and looking after outdoor furniture – whether it’s made from mild steel, stainless steel, or aluminium.

1. Clean It Before You Store It

Before the rain (and leaves) take over, give your furniture a quick clean:

• Wipe down with warm soapy water and a soft cloth
• Rinse off any salt spray, dust, or grime
• Dry thoroughly to avoid moisture build-up under cushions or in hidden corners

If you live near the coast, rinsing off salt regularly is especially important for mild steel pieces.

2. Store It or Cover It

Even though our furniture is powder-coated and weather-resistant, protecting it from the elements over winter will extend its life and reduce the chance of surface wear or rust spots.

Options:

• Move furniture undercover: inside the garage, shed, or under the eaves
• Use breathable covers: avoid plastic tarps (they trap moisture)
• Stack or nest: Many of our designs are stackable, so save space and protect surfaces

If you’ve got the space, your furniture will love a dry hibernation. If not, make sure it’s not sitting in a puddle all winter long.

3. Touch Up Any Chips

Got a scratch or chip in the powder coating? Touch it up now, not next spring.

• Use a colour-matched touch-up pen or paint (We sell cans of Ico Traders colour matched enamel spray paint)
• Clean the area, let it dry, then spray or dab it on with a small brush
• This prevents rust from forming, especially on mild steel pieces

4. Don’t Forget the Cushions

If your outdoor setup includes cushions or covers:

• Store them indoors or in a dry, ventilated container
• Check for mould or moisture before packing away
• Give them a wash and dry if needed, so they’re fresh for next season

Our Benson Sofa cushions, for example, are upholstered in UV resistant outdoor fabric, but they still appreciate a dry break from the winter elements.

5. Stainless Steel: Low Maintenance, But Not No Maintenance

Our stainless steel range (like the stainless Coromandel Chair or Piha Lounger) is ideal for coastal or exposed areas. But even stainless needs a quick clean now and then to stay looking its best.

• Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild detergent
• Avoid harsh cleaners or anything that is abrasive.
• Use a soft cloth to dry down properly.

Why Winter Care = Longer Life

Taking the time to care for your outdoor furniture during winter:

• Extends its lifespan
• Reduces maintenance later
• Keeps it looking as good as the day you bought it
• Reduces waste by avoiding premature replacements

Final Thought: Rest Now, Shine Later

Think of winter as your furniture’s off-season. A bit of rest, a bit of care, and it’ll be ready to roll come spring.

At Ico Traders, our furniture is made to move with you through seasons and spaces. A little winter proofing helps it stay around for the long haul.