With a few simple steps, you can effectively protect your garden tools and outdoor furniture before winter and cold weather arrive. Here’s how!
Why it’s important to protect outdoor equipment before winter
Garden tools, wooden or metal furniture, and other outdoor elements are exposed to moisture, snow, cold, and temperature changes throughout autumn and winter.
Without proper protection, this can lead to:
- rust on metal parts,
- cracking of wood and plastic,
- moisture damage,
- reduced lifespan of furniture and tools.
Proper winter preparation is essential, as it prevents damage, reduces repair costs, and extends the life of your outdoor equipment.
1. How to prepare garden tools for winter
Thorough cleaning
Start by removing all dirt, soil, and plant residue. Soil, plant sap, and moisture accelerate corrosion.
Go step by step:
- clean metal parts with water or a brush,
- remove rust with fine sandpaper,
- scrape off any plant residue with a scraper or brush.
Clean tools overwinter significantly better—cleaning is the most important step!
Complete drying
Make sure the tools are completely dry before storage. Moisture causes rust, swelling, and unpleasant odors.
Oiling metal parts
To prevent rust, coat metal surfaces with protective oil or grease. Suitable options include:
- linseed oil,
- universal lubricant (e.g., WD-40),
- mineral oil.
This step is especially important for shears, shovels, forks, blades, hoes, and trimmer lines.
Sharpening blades
Clean and sharpen:
- hedge shears,
- hand pruners,
- knives,
Sharpening is recommended at least twice a year - autumn and spring.
Storing in a dry space
Store tools in a:
- shed,
- garage,
- basement,
- or another dry, well-ventilated indoor space.
If possible, hang the tools to prevent contact with moisture on the floor.
2. Protecting garden furniture for winter
Wooden furniture
Wood is sensitive to moisture, cold, and frost.
- Clean with a mild detergent.
- Allow it to dry completely.
- Apply oil or wood protection (teak oil, wood sealer) if needed.
- Store indoors whenever possible.
If it must stay outside, cover it with a breathable furniture cover - never with airtight plastic, which traps moisture.
Metal furniture
Metal furniture can rust if exposed to moisture.
- Clean with warm water and mild detergent.
- Check for paint damage and repair if needed.
- Apply a rust-protection spray.
It is not recommended to leave metal furniture outdoors during winter.
Plastic furniture
Plastic can become brittle and crack in cold temperatures.
- Clean and dry thoroughly.
- Store indoors.
- If this isn’t possible, cover it with a breathable cover that allows airflow.
