When summer winds down, and the crisp autumn winds begin to blow it’s time to consider outdoor furniture covers to protect your investment to ensure many more seasons of enjoyment. Cost, material, design, and size are all important things to consider and will help you make a purchase you will be satisfied with for many years.
How much of your budget are you willing to invest toward that solution? If you have furniture in standard sizes, you can get by with stock products at very reasonable prices and good quality. Just know that there is a trade off. It’s fine to spend less as long as you know you will be willing to replace the covers more often. If, however, you have furniture that will require special order to get custom fit covers, it would be wise to spend a few extra dollars to get covers that will last many seasons.
Outdoor furniture covers come in a variety of materials including plastic polyethylene, vinyl with or without fleece backing, polyester, sometimes vinyl coated, and other specialized fabrics such as Weathermax. Each of these materials have advantages and drawbacks. If you live in an area where snowfall is common and the furniture will be left outdoors, waterproof covers would be a good choice. Choose a fabric that is breathable, yet balanced with protection. Polyester might be a good choice, if vinyl coated or Weathermax which combines breath-ability with UV protective properties to prevent fading and fabric breakdown.
Condensation, mold, and mildew can form if dirt and water penetrate the surface of your furniture covers damaging wood and metal finishes over time. Therefore, it is important that the covers fit well and don’t encourage sagging areas that can hold water or snow for long periods of time.
Design and style are important elements to consider as well. Patterns and textures that you will look at out your window all winter should be pleasing to you. The function of the covers will be important to how well your covers protect. Velcro, ties, and snaps are all options that are available to secure a tight fit around your chairs and tables. Some come with umbrella holes so that your umbrella (with its own cover) can be left in place when out of season. A drop to the floor is best and will also prevent your outdoor furniture covers from blowing away in severe wind.
Easy care and maintenance can be achieved if the covers are machine washable and lightweight. Many are easy to place and easy to remove. Some are not. Thinking about what you need and what the climate is in your region will help you make a smart choice in covers that will last and perform beautifully to protect your investment for many years to come.