How to Winterize Outdoor Furniture: A Complete Guide for Airbnb and Vacation Rental Hosts

Winter is coming — and while your guests may be excited to cozy up indoors, your outdoor furniture is bracing for its toughest season yet.

If you’re an Airbnb or short-term rental host, you already know that outdoor comfort plays a huge role in guest satisfaction. A well-designed patio or deck can turn one-time visitors into repeat guests. But all that beauty and comfort can quickly wear down if it’s not protected against cold, moisture, and temperature swings.

That’s why learning how to winterize outdoor furniture isn’t just a maintenance task — it’s an investment in your property’s reputation and longevity.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your furniture, fire pits, and decor through the colder months — and how to make sure your outdoor space looks guest-ready when spring returns.

Why Winterizing Matters for Airbnb Hosts

Outdoor spaces are one of the first things guests notice in your listing photos. Even in winter, travelers love a property that feels cared for.

But here’s what many hosts underestimate:

Cold weather doesn’t just make outdoor spaces less inviting — it can quietly destroy your furniture.

Moisture seeps into cushions, wood fibers swell and crack, metal corrodes, and fabric fades from exposure.

Over one season, that can mean:

• Early wear-and-tear
  
• Shortened furniture lifespan
  
• Expensive replacements in spring

By taking a few hours to properly winterize your outdoor furniture, you can prevent hundreds (even thousands) of dollars in damage — while keeping your property looking stylish and well-maintained all year long.

Step 1: Clean Everything Thoroughly Before Storage

Think of winterizing like tucking your furniture in for hibernation — you don’t want to trap dirt or debris under the covers.

How to do it right:

1. Wipe down all surfaces: Use a mild soap and warm water solution to remove dust, pollen, and grime.
   
2. Remove cushions and fabrics: Spot-clean with gentle detergent and let them dry completely.
   
3. Clean glass and metal parts: Use glass cleaner or a vinegar-water mix to prevent mineral buildup and oxidation.
   
4. Let everything dry fully: Storing damp furniture invites mildew and rust — two words no host wants in their reviews.

Pro Tip: Pay extra attention to table legs and chair joints. Moisture tends to collect in small crevices, especially in metal or wicker frames.

Step 2: Protect by Material Type

Not all outdoor furniture is created equal — and each material requires its own winter care strategy.

Wood Furniture

Wood expands and contracts with temperature changes, leading to cracks and warping.

• Apply a coat of furniture sealant or oil (like teak oil for hardwoods).
  
• Store indoors if possible, or use a breathable waterproof cover.
  
• Avoid wrapping tightly in plastic — it traps condensation and causes rot.
  

Concrete Furniture

Durable but porous, concrete can absorb water that freezes and expands, causing cracks.

• Clean thoroughly and apply a concrete sealer before winter.
  
• Cover with a UV- and water-resistant fabric that allows airflow.
  

Try sturdy, sealed pieces like the Granville 60” Gas Fire Pit Table — designed to handle seasonal changes without surface damage.

Metal Furniture

Metal is strong but vulnerable to rust and corrosion.

• Inspect for scratches or chips and touch up with rust-resistant paint.
  
• Wipe with a thin coat of car wax for a protective barrier.
  
• Store or cover with weatherproof materials that allow ventilation.
  

Wicker or Rattan

Natural wicker can dry out and crack, while synthetic rattan can become brittle.

• Use a soft brush to clean between weaves.
  
• Apply a thin coat of furniture wax.
  
• Store indoors or use form-fitting covers.
  

Fabric Cushions

Even “weather-resistant” cushions aren’t immune to mold or fading.

• Wash and dry thoroughly.
  
• Store indoors in plastic bins with fabric softener sheets to keep them fresh.
  

Never leave cushions on furniture during long winter periods — they’ll soak up moisture like sponges.

Step 3: Invest in Quality Covers

If storage space is limited, protective covers are your best defense.

When buying outdoor furniture covers, look for:

• Waterproof yet breathable materials (polyester or canvas).
  
• Straps or drawcords to secure during wind.
  
• UV protection to prevent fading.
  
• Vents that allow airflow and reduce condensation.
  

Avoid cheap vinyl covers — they often crack in the cold and trap moisture.

Bonus Tip: Label your covers by furniture type or area. Guests appreciate when you keep things tidy and easy to set up for spring.

Step 4: Winterize Fire Features and Grills

Your fire pit or fire table may be the highlight of your listing — don’t let winter ruin it.

For Gas Fire Tables:

• Shut off the gas supply and disconnect propane tanks.
  
• Clean burner components and wipe surfaces dry.
  
• Use a custom-fit weather cover (most manufacturers offer them).
  

Check our durable pieces like the Manchester 42×40 Concrete Gas Fire Pit — its concrete body and stainless-steel burner are built for longevity.

For Traditional Fire Pits:

• Empty ash completely.
  
• Coat metal surfaces with high-heat paint or protective oil to prevent rust.
  
• Store accessories (screens, grates, covers) indoors.
  

Extra Tip: If your property allows, consider moving fire pits under covered patios during winter for extra protection and continued guest use.

Step 5: Create a Winter-Friendly Outdoor Setup

Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean guests won’t enjoy being outside — especially if your space is designed for it.

Instead of closing off your patio, reimagine it for the season.

Here’s how:

• Keep your fire pit or table accessible for chilly evenings.
  
• Add a few outdoor lanterns or string lights for warmth and atmosphere.
  
• Store summer décor and replace with neutral tones (gray, beige, wood).
  
• Leave a note or sign inviting guests to enjoy hot cocoa by the fire.
  

A cozy outdoor nook — even in winter — can set your Airbnb apart.

Step 6: Don’t Forget Maintenance Checks

Winterizing isn’t “set it and forget it.”
Check your outdoor space at least once a month (especially after storms).

Keep an eye out for:

• Pooling water on covers
  
• Snow buildup
  
• Wind damage or loose straps
  
• Early signs of rust or mildew
  

A quick 10-minute check can save you from costly spring repairs.

Step 7: Store Smart If You Have the Space

If you’re lucky enough to have storage — use it wisely.

• Stack lightweight chairs vertically to save room.
  
• Store tables on their sides with padding to avoid scratching.
  
• Keep everything off the ground (moisture rises).
  

Add silica gel packets or moisture absorbers to storage bins to prevent mildew and odor.

Bonus Tip: Think “Protection + Presentation”

Even if guests won’t use your patio much in the cold, they’ll see it in your photos — and that still influences bookings.

After winterizing, take a few minutes to tidy up the area:

• Straighten furniture before covering.
  
• Add one or two decorative touches (like lanterns or a wreath).
  
• Keep everything looking intentional, not abandoned.
  

Your winter-ready outdoor space sends a message:

“This host takes pride in every detail.”

And that’s exactly what guests remember when leaving five-star reviews.

Final Thoughts: Protect Now, Profit Later

Your outdoor space isn’t just an amenity — it’s part of your brand.

Learning how to winterize outdoor furniture protects your investment, maintains guest trust, and ensures your property always looks polished — no matter the season.

Take it from experienced hosts: a few hours of prep now can save you hundreds of dollars in replacement costs (and protect those 5-star ratings).

At Optimal Outdoor Oasis, we make it easy to keep your property beautiful year-round — with durable furniture, fire features, and design essentials that withstand the elements and keep your guests comfortable in every season.

👉 Explore our full collection at OptimalOutdoorOasis.net — and give your outdoor space the winter care it deserves.