Store Outdoor Cushions for the Winter

Materials

• 2-4 bins depending on cushion quantity Clear plastic storage bins with latching lids, 18-gallon size (Clear bins let you see contents without opening; avoid bins with poorly fitting lids that let moisture seep in) — $8–$15 per bin
• 2-3 bags Vacuum-seal storage bags, jumbo size (Alternative to bins if space is tight; requires a vacuum with hose attachment to seal properly) — $12–$18 for a pack of three
• 6-10 packets Silica gel packets, 10-gram size (Reusable moisture absorbers; more effective than baking soda and do not spill) — $8–$12 for a pack of ten
• 2 tablespoons Dish soap, mild formula (Any brand works; avoid soaps with dyes that might stain light-colored fabric) — $3–$5

Step by step

1. Prep · 20 minutes

   Remove Dirt and Stains First

   Use a stiff brush to remove dirt, pollen, and dried leaves from fabric surfaces. Mix one tablespoon of dish soap with warm water and scrub any visible stains with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose until water runs clear and no soap remains.

   Tip: Clean on a warm, breezy day so cushions dry faster and you are not racing against rain.
2. Drying · 4-6 hours

   Dry Every Surface Bone-Dry

   Stand cushions on their edges in full sun, rotating every hour so all sides dry evenly. Press down on the foam to check for moisture—if any water squeezes out, keep drying. Even slight dampness trapped inside will turn into mildew during storage.

   Tip: Prop cushions against a fence or railing at an angle so air circulates underneath and they do not tip over.
3. Final Prep · 10 minutes

   Dust Every Seam and Edge

   Once dry, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment or a clean brush to remove dust that settled during drying. Pay attention to seams and piping where dirt collects. This step prevents grit from grinding into fabric during months of storage.

   Tip: Shake each cushion hard before vacuuming to dislodge anything stuck in the weave.
4. Packing · 15 minutes

   Seal and Label Everything

   Use clear plastic bins with latching lids, or vacuum-seal bags if you need to save space. Do not overstuff—cushions should fit without being compressed more than halfway. Label bins by furniture piece so you know which cushions go where in spring.

   Tip: Toss in two or three silica gel packets per bin to absorb any trace moisture that sneaks in over winter.
5. Storage · 10 minutes

   Keep Bins Off Cold Floors

   Place bins on shelves, pallets, or scrap lumber so they sit at least four inches above concrete floors. Choose a basement, heated garage, or indoor closet where temperature stays relatively stable. Avoid unheated sheds or attics where temperature swings cause condensation inside bins.

   Tip: Stack lighter bins on top of heavier ones, and keep the stack low enough that you can lift the top bin without a ladder.
6. Mid-Winter Check · 5 minutes

   Catch Problems Early

   Open one bin in January or February and check for condensation, musty smell, or mildew spots. If you find moisture, remove cushions, dry them indoors, and switch to a drier storage location. This five-minute check can save you from discovering ruined cushions in April.

   Tip: If you spot mildew early, spray with white vinegar, dry completely, and return to storage in fresh bags.