Storing Outdoor Patio Cushions for Winter: The Complete Guide
Quick Overview (Why this matters)
Moisture + cold + rodents = mold, stains, and chewed foam. A simple pre-storage routine protects your cushions so they look great in spring—and last years longer.
Check list on how to store your outdoor cushions for the winter.
| Phase | Action | Why It Matters | Tools/Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1) Pre-Clean | Brush off debris; vacuum seams/piping | Removes grit that abrades fabric & traps moisture | Soft brush, vacuum upholstery tool | [ ] |
| 1) Pre-Clean | Spot clean with mild soap + water; rinse | Prevents stains from “setting” over winter | Bucket, mild soap, sponge, hose | [ ] |
| 2) Disinfect (if needed) | Treat mildew; rinse thoroughly | Stops spores from spreading | Fabric-safe mildew cleaner (per fabric care) | [ ] |
| 3) Drying | Air-dry 24–48 hours until 100% dry | Wet storage = mold, odor, rusted zippers | Dry rack, ventilated/sunny area | [ ] |
| 4) Prep | Zip covers, fluff, label sets/locations | Holds shape & speeds spring setup | Tags or painter’s tape + marker | [ ] |
| 5) Bagging | Use breathable bags/sheets (no plastic wrap) | Avoids trapped condensation | Breathable storage bags, cotton sheets | [ ] |
| 6) Containers | Place bagged cushions in latching bins; elevate | Pest protection; flood protection | Locking bins, shelves/pallets | [ ] |
| 7) Moisture Control | Add desiccant packs; avoid mothballs | Reduces humidity, no toxic odors | Silica/desiccants, cedar blocks | [ ] |
| 8) Rodent-Proofing | Seal gaps; use locking lids; peppermint nearby | Deters squirrels/mice from nesting | Weatherstrip, steel wool, sachets | [ ] |
| 9) Location | Clean, dry, temp-stable; avoid bare concrete | Prevents moisture swings & odor | Closet, climate-controlled garage, basement shelf | [ ] |
| 10) Mid-Winter Check | Inspect for moisture/pests; refresh desiccants | Catches problems early | Flashlight; spare desiccants | [ ] |
The Checklist
Before You Store Your Outdoor Cushions
Brush, vacuum, and pre-clean cushions and pillows.
Treat mildew if present; rinse thoroughly.
Air-dry 24–48 hours until completely dry (inside & out).
Zip covers; fluff; label by furniture set or location.
(Optional) Apply fabric protector per manufacturer after drying.
How & Where to Store Your Outdoor Cushions
Use breathable bags/sheets (no airtight plastic or shrink wrap).
Put into latching bins and elevate off floors (shelves/pallets).
Add desiccants; consider cedar blocks for freshness.
Choose a clean, dry, temperature-stable spot (indoor closet, climate-controlled garage, basement shelving, ventilated shed with rodent controls).
Seal gaps; keep food/birdseed away from storage area.
Mid-Winter Maintenance for Outdoor Cushions
Quick inspection for moisture, odor, or pests.
Replace/recharge desiccants if saturated.
What Not To Do When Storing Outdoor Cushions for The Winter
Don’t store cushions wet or even slightly damp.
Don’t wrap tightly in plastic or vacuum-seal (traps moisture, crushes foam).
Don’t set bins directly on concrete—elevate them.
Don’t use mothballs (odor/toxicity linger in fabrics).
Don’t leave cushions outdoors under covers all winter—condensation still happens.
Squirrels & Chewing
Fat Frank (our cushion-loving squirrel) says: “Foam = terrible winter bedding. 0/10, would not nest again.”
Reality check: squirrels and mice will chew fabric/foam for nests.
Prevention: store indoors or in sealed, ventilated spaces; use locking-lid bins; block gaps with steel wool; keep seed/food away; place peppermint/cedar near (not on) fabric.
Storage Options (pick what fits)
Best: interior closet/spare room (clean, dry, stable temps).
Climate-controlled garage: shelves + desiccants + locking bins.
Basement: elevate off floor; add airflow and desiccants.
Ventilated shed: only with locking bins, breathable bags, rodent controls.
Storage unit: choose climate-controlled; avoid over-stacking to prevent foam deformation.
Spring Setup - Getting your outdoor cushions ready for the season.
Unbag and air out for a few hours.
Quick surface clean if needed.
Re-attach/repair loose buttons/ties immediately.
Quick FAQs
How dry is “dry enough”? Bone-dry. No cool/damp feel at seams or zippers.
Can I vacuum-seal cushions? Not recommended—moisture gets trapped and foam can deform.
Is a deck box okay? Only if vented/rodent-resistant, placed dry/covered, and cushions go in fully dry. Indoors is best.
Use fabric protector in fall? Yes—after cleaning and drying, follow product directions and allow to cure fully.