You're making a mistake with garden furniture – don't ruin it this winter

As we bid farewell to the summer, it's time to tuck away our seasonal gear.

Garden furniture needs to be stowed with care to survive the winter, but beware you might be doing it all wrong. The internet is full of storage tips for your outdoor pieces, but some of them aren't that great.

People should approach the task with caution as some popular methods could do more harm than good. TikTok has been flooded with videos offering advice, but not all of it is worth following.

Will McCullagh, Managing Director at Vanguard Self Storage, warns against the common use of plastic tarps for covering garden furniture in the colder months. He explains that this can lead to trapped moisture and subsequent mould, rust and mildew.

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To extend the life of your garden furniture, better alternatives are available. It's just a matter of following a few straightforward steps.

Will advises: "As the colder months get closer, now's the time to start storing your garden furniture in order to avoid damage, and to ensure it is well-maintained for better weather come next year. While there might be plenty of hacks on TikTok, these don't always offer the best long-term solution.

"One of these is using plastic tarps to cover your furniture in garages and sheds. While it might look effective, it can actually result in moisture issues and cause damage over time.

"Plastic tarps are made from non-breathable material, which means that moisture is easily trapped below the surface. This can cause condensation and create a humid environment under the tarp.

"Mould and mildew can grow on furniture, especially where wood and fabric are concerned. Metal furniture can become rusty, which not only looks unsightly, but also weakens the furniture and reduces its lifespan.

"Wooden furniture may become swollen or warped in damp conditions, again impacting its quality and functionality."

In place of plastic tarps, it's better to seek out storage solutions and materials that facilitate airflow. Protective covers crafted from breathable fabric will shield your furnishings while preventing moisture entrapment.

Its advisable for furniture to be elevated off the floor to keep it clear of damp surfaces. You should also ensure that storage areas are well-ventilated to decrease any chance of condensation, and keep your pieces in prime condition.

Taking apart sizeable items of furniture can simplify storage matters and allow for more thorough protection. Should space be limited at home, then utilising a self-storage unit provides a secure and handy option.

Adopting professional storage methods, and heeding the advice given, can greatly mitigate the hazards linked to incorrect storage environments.