As summer comes to an end and the evenings begin to draw in, it’s time to start preparing your garden for the colder months ahead. But preparing your outdoor space for winter doesn’t mean you have to pack everything away and forget about your garden until spring.
With the right care, your garden furniture can remain looking beautiful throughout the seasons, while a few simple changes can help create an outdoor space that is ready to enjoy whenever the weather allows.
At Oxford Outdoor Living, we believe your garden should be an extension of your home – comfortable, stylish and inviting all year round. Here are five simple ways to prepare your garden for winter.
1. Give Your Garden Furniture a Thorough Clean
Before the colder weather arrives, give your outdoor furniture a proper clean. Throughout summer, furniture can accumulate dust, pollen, leaves and general outdoor debris, so autumn is the perfect time to refresh your pieces.
Start by brushing away any loose dirt and debris, before washing surfaces with warm water and a mild soap solution. A soft cloth or sponge is ideal for cleaning without damaging the finish.
Avoid abrasive cleaning products and pressure washers, which can cause unnecessary damage to certain materials and protective finishes.
Once clean, allow your furniture to dry completely before covering or storing any cushions.
2. Protect Your Furniture with Weatherproof Covers
One of the simplest ways to protect your investment throughout winter is with a high-quality, weatherproof furniture cover.
Rain, frost, dirt and changing temperatures can all take their toll on outdoor furniture over time. While Oxford Outdoor Living furniture is designed with durable, weather-resistant materials, additional protection can help preserve its appearance season after season.
Our tailored furniture covers are designed specifically for Oxford Outdoor Living collections, providing a precise fit while helping shield furniture from rain, frost, UV exposure and general weathering.
For the best protection, choose a cover specifically designed for your furniture rather than relying on a generic alternative.
Explore our weatherproof garden furniture covers to find the right protection for your outdoor furniture.
3. Store Your Outdoor Cushions
Your garden furniture may be designed to stay outside throughout the year, but cushions deserve a little extra attention during the wetter months.
Before storing them, brush away any loose dirt and clean any marks or spills using mild soap and lukewarm water. Most importantly, allow cushions to dry completely before putting them away.
During prolonged periods of wet weather, store cushions somewhere dry indoors or use a suitable weatherproof storage solution. Bringing cushions inside over winter can help protect their colour, fabric and overall appearance for longer.
When spring arrives, your cushions will be clean, fresh and ready for another season of outdoor entertaining.
4. Tidy Your Garden and Create a Winter-Ready Space
Winter preparation isn’t just about protecting your furniture. Autumn is also the perfect opportunity to tidy your wider outdoor space.
Clear fallen leaves from patios and decking, remove debris from around furniture and trim back plants where necessary. Pay particular attention to areas where water can collect, as standing moisture can contribute to unnecessary wear.
You can also use this opportunity to rethink your garden layout. Move furniture into a more sheltered position where possible, particularly if your garden is exposed to strong winds.
And don’t assume your garden has to become unused once summer is over. Outdoor heating, cosy seating and carefully chosen accessories can help you continue enjoying your garden well into the colder months
5. Think Beyond Summer
Preparing your garden for winter doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to outdoor living.
A well-designed outdoor space can be enjoyed throughout the year. Luxury lounge sets provide a comfortable place to relax on crisp autumn afternoons, while outdoor heating can make cooler evenings more inviting.
Consider layering your outdoor space with comfortable seating, warm lighting and carefully chosen accessories to create a cosy retreat that feels just as inviting in autumn and winter as it does in summer.
From elegant lounge sets and dining furniture to outdoor heaters and fire tables, Oxford Outdoor Living offers everything you need to create an outdoor space designed for year-round living.
Prepare Your Garden for the Season Ahead
A little preparation now can make a big difference to the condition and longevity of your outdoor furniture. By cleaning your furniture, protecting it with suitable covers, storing cushions and keeping your garden tidy, you can help ensure your outdoor space is ready for whatever the British weather brings.
And when spring arrives, you’ll be able to uncover your furniture and start enjoying your garden again — without the lengthy clean-up.
Discover the Oxford Outdoor Living collection and create an outdoor space designed to be enjoyed in every season.
