Is your beautiful outdoor setting showing signs of wear after only one season? In Australia, our love for alfresco living is often tested by our sometimes harsh climate, which can damage your chairs, tables, and cushions before their time. With a bit of know-how and regular, simple care, you can protect your furniture from the elements. This guide is packed with practical advice tailored for our unique conditions. You’ll learn what to expect from high UV, heat, rain, and salty air. You’ll get easy care tips for different materials, protection ideas, cleaning habits, seasonal checks, and smart storage. These simple steps help you avoid costly replacements and keep your outdoor furniture comfortable year-round.
The Conditions We're Up Against
Australia’s sun is strong. UV exposure causes fading, cracking, and weakened materials. Timber dries out and turns silvery. Fabrics lose colour and break down. Metal gets powdery and dull. Heat can also warp plastics and loosen joints.
Sudden rain and storms bring a different set of problems. Moisture creates mould and mildew, especially in humid tropical areas. Pooled water on flat surfaces can stain and leave marks.
If you live on the coast, salt air is a constant battle. It speeds up corrosion on metal and can damage finishes. Inland areas face dust and heat extremes that wear furniture too. Seasonal weather changes also stress materials. Dry conditions followed by heavy rain cause swelling, cracking, and rust.
Knowing the direction your backyard faces will help you select the right protection and care.
Care Tips for Common Materials
Timber and teak last well outside if looked after. Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water. Let it dry thoroughly. Apply a quality timber oil or sealer once or twice a year to keep moisture out and reduce cracking.
For aluminium and other metals, check regularly for paint chips or rust spots. Treat rust early and rinse metal surfaces if you live near the ocean.
Resin wicker is low-maintenance but still needs care. Wash gently with a sponge and soapy water to remove dust and prevent mould. Avoid pressure hoses because they can weaken the weave.
Outdoor fabrics like seat cushions should be washed using fabric-safe cleaners. Let them dry thoroughly in the shade. Use a fabric protector spray to help resist spills and slow fading from the sun. Always check the care label first.
Basic Outdoor Furniture Protection
Protection helps everything last longer. Placing your furniture under a pergola, umbrella, or covered patio reduces sun damage and keeps rain off. It also lowers the chance of mould and stains.
Covers are great when furniture is not in use. Look for breathable covers that stop moisture from building up underneath.
If you live in an area with heavy dew or rain, keep your furniture slightly off the ground to prevent water from soaking into the legs or frames. This prevents rot and rust from creeping up.
In windy areas, secure lightweight pieces or choose heavier styles that don’t blow away. Rubber or plastic glides on the legs protect against damp surfaces and help keep furniture level on outdoor pavers or decking.
Your Go-To Cleaning Routine
A simple cleaning routine makes a big difference. Dust and dirt act like sandpaper, wearing down surfaces. Wipe down furniture regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Rinse well and leave it to air dry.
To prevent mould and mildew, clean up spills as soon as possible and let cushions fully dry after rain or washing. If stains appear after a barbecue or an outdoor dinner, spot-treat right away to prevent them from setting in.
Avoid harsh cleaners that strip finishes or bleach fabrics. A mix of warm water and gentle soap is enough for most materials. For stubborn marks, use a cleaner designed for the specific surface.
Keep an eye on areas that stay damp or shaded, as they tend to grow mould faster. A quick clean more often is easier than a big job down the track.
A Quick Seasonal Check-Up
A few small checks each season help avoid bigger issues later. Tighten loose screws and joints to keep frames strong and stable.
Check for cracks in timber or peeling paint before they spread. Reapply timber oils or protective finishes once or twice a year, depending on how much sun and rain the furniture gets. Check your cushions and fabrics for thinning, mould, or fading. Replace anything that is too worn to protect the foam inside.
Check under chairs and tables for damaged glides or feet that might expose timber or metal to moisture.
Little repairs now stop expensive replacements down the line.
Smart Storage for Long-Term Life
Good storage habits extend your furniture's life. When winter arrives or you’re not planning to use the outdoor area for a while, store the cushions and lighter furniture in a dry place like a shed or garage.
Rotate items every few weeks so the same parts are not always in the sun.
Keep receipts and warranty details in an easy-to-find place, especially for premium pieces. If something starts to fail earlier than expected, you may be covered.
Even durable furniture needs time out of the weather. Giving it a break helps prevent fading, cracks, and rust.
The Australian climate can be challenging, but regular care keeps your outdoor space looking the way you want. Protect surfaces from harsh sun and heavy rain, clean often with care, and check for early signs of wear. Store items during long breaks and treat each material with care.
A little maintenance now means your outdoor area will remain a beautiful, welcoming retreat for relaxing, entertaining, and making the most of our fantastic lifestyle for many years to come.