Maintaining Outdoor Furniture: Pro Tips for Muskoka Cottages

When it comes to admiring the peace and tranquility of Muskoka, few activities compare to lounging on outdoor furniture in nature. However, like everything else, the outdoor furniture changes with the seasons. Muskoka's extreme climate—hot summers, cold winters, and, most of all, highly unpredictable weather—can test the sturdiest outdoor furniture. Proper care and maintenance are essential to keeping your furniture comfortable and presentable for many years.

Here’s a guide to maintaining your outdoor furniture, tailored specifically for the Muskoka region.

1. Begin with a Good Cleaning Regimen

Cleaning is the cornerstone of outdoor furniture care. Dirt, grime, and pollen accumulate over time; if not cleaned off on a regular basis, they can stain or even lead to mold growth.

Pro Tip:

• Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or brush. Strong chemicals will ruin finishes or fabrics.

  
  

• Rinse off any surface dirt and use a solution of mild dish soap and warm water to clean metal furniture, such as aluminum or wrought iron.

  
  

• Cleaners safe for wood should be used for wooden furniture so its natural oil is not stripped.

  
  

• Pay special attention to crevices where dirt and mildew like to hide. A small, soft brush can get into those hard-to-get places.

  
  

2. Protecting Your Furniture from the Elements

The weather in Muskoka changes very fast, so one must be on their toes with protecting their furniture. Prolonged exposure to the sun's rays, rain, and snow will cause fading, warping, and rust.

Pro Tips:

• Covers: Buy high-quality outdoor furniture covers to keep them protected from dust, insects, and moisture when not in use; cushions, fabrics, and metal parts are especially essential.

  
  

• Sun Protection: It can also be beneficial to apply a UV-protectant sealant to wooden furniture to preserve the natural wood color and prevent it from cracking.

  
  

• Cushion Care: Cushions receive the worst battering from humidity and rains. Search for those that come with water-repellent covers, or seek other storage solutions to keep them dry in the off-seasons.

  
  

3. Wood Care: Treatment and Sealing

Cedar and teak are preferred lumber types for the furnishings of Muskoka cottages because they are beautiful, but they require some extra care. Left untreated, wood tends to lose its beautiful shade, dry out, and crack with time. 

Pro Tips:

• Before putting on any preservative, clean the wood well. 

  
  

• To maintain its good looks and protect it from the elements, consider applying a teak oil or wood sealant once or twice a year. 

  
  

• Sand any rough areas and deal with any signs of mold and mildew as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage. 

  
  

• Store wooden furniture above wet surfaces so that moisture absorption does not set in and will not contribute to rot.

  
  

4. Metal Furniture: Preventing Rust

Metal patio furniture like aluminum, wrought iron, or steel is quite sturdy but oftentimes falls prey to rust and corrosion in Muskoka's humid and fluctuating climate.

Pro Tips:

• After cleaning, take a close look at the metal for any signs of rust. If you find such a thing, sand it down and spray it with a rust-proof agent to protect it from future damage.

  
  

• With wrought iron, checking that the finish is intact is crucial. If you see paint flaking off, get it repainted to stave off the rust. 

  
  

• If the metal furniture needs winter storage, it should be dry before covering or putting away.

  
  

5. Storage during the Off-Season

Most cottages in Muskoka are used all year round yet store their outdoor furniture for the winter. This is one of the best ways to extend life, especially for items that don't stand up to freezing temperatures and snow.

Pro Tips:

• Clean your furniture really well before storing it. Any dirt or moisture left on the furniture will lead to mold and mildew in storage.

  
  

• Store your cushions in a dry, airtight place to prevent mold growth.

  
  

• Elevate your furniture off the ground to prevent moisture damage if possible. A shed or an outdoor area can be assigned for storage instead.

  
  

6. General Tips for Prolonging Furniture Life

Routine Inspection: Periodically check for loose bolts, screws, or wobbly legs. Tighten any loose parts and replace damaged hardware to ensure stability.

Mind the Wildlife: Muskoka’s natural surroundings are beautiful, but local critters can sometimes make a home in your outdoor furniture. Keep an eye out for nests or signs of chewing.

Use Furniture Wisely: Avoid placing furniture in areas where it will be exposed to excessive moisture, such as under dripping trees or near sprinkler systems.

Conclusion

Muskoka's beautiful environment is an ideal background for the ultimate outdoor living, but time must be invested in proper maintenance of the furniture before it can be functional and stunning for years to come. Here are some wonderful pro tips for cleaning, protecting, and storing your outdoor pieces to make them come to life. With those perks, relaxing on the dock, holding a twilight conversation, will not prevent your furniture from being a cozy and durable part of the Muskoka experience.

At Pro Washer, we realize how specific the open spaces in Muskoka might be. For our clients, we have designed a professional cleaning service to keep your outdoor furniture looking like new so you can enjoy the season!