Liv Outdoor’s outdoor furniture materials are highly resistant to moisture and dirt, making them easy to maintain. The most challenging conditions occur during winter storage, when excess moisture can cause mold on the furniture. To avoid this unpleasant surprise, we’ve put together simple tips to keep in mind when storing your furniture.
Clean the furniture
The good news with this first step is that our furniture is easy to clean! In most cases, simply wiping it with a damp or even dry microfiber cloth is enough. If you use a moist or wet cloth, allow the furniture to air out for about an hour afterward. Ideally, choose a sunny day for this step.
When storing outdoors in winter
The good news with this first step is that our furniture is easy to clean! In most cases, simply wiping it with a damp or even dry microfiber cloth is enough. If you use a moist or wet cloth, allow the furniture to air out for about an hour afterward. Ideally, choose a sunny day for this step.
When storing outdoors in winter
- Cover: Choose a dedicated outdoor furniture cover. Avoid airtight plastic films – the “greenhouse effect” leads to condensation and mold.
- Fastening: Secure the cover tightly against the wind (using straps/elastic), but leave room for ventilation. A useful tip is to create a small “tent” in the middle (e.g., with a foam tube/stick) so rainwater runs off.
- Cushions: Ideally, store indoors or in a garage. If not possible, ensure they are not tightly pressed against each other or the sofa under the cover.
- Off the ground: lift the furniture on blocks to prevent damage from puddles and freezing.
When storing indoors in winter
- Cover is not mandatory, but it is recommended against dust – place it loosely to allow airflow.
- Humidity: aims for 40–60% RH. Use a dehumidifier if needed; a simple hygrometer helps you monitor the humidity level.
- Cushions & textiles: store in breathable bags (not vacuum bags). Leave space between cushions, avoid pressing.
- Pest control: store clean; use natural repellents (e.g., cedarwood blocks) if needed. Avoid food waste in the storage area.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Airtight plastic film over the whole set → condensation and mold.
- Wet cushions under the cover or indoors → mold within weeks.
- Cover too tight with no ventilation → moisture cannot escape.
- Weight on glass (snow pile/pressure from cover) → risk of breaking.
- Pressure washer too close to weaving/textile → fiber damage.
Spring “restart”
- Remove covers in dry weather, and air out the cushions.
- Clean the surfaces and tighten any loose fittings as needed.
- Enjoy your beautiful outdoor furniture!
Quick checklist (for printing)
- Clean with a microfiber cloth and air out.
- Cushions fully dry and stored separately (ideally indoors in breathable bags).
- When stored outside, use a breathable cover + provide ventilation, and + raise it off the ground.
- Indoors: dry room, air circulation, humidity 40–60%.
- Avoid plastic films, weight on glass, and salts on metal.
You can explore Liv Outdoor’s outdoor furniture covers here.
