The outdoor storage mistakes ruining your garden

From leaving cushions outside to letting garden tools rust, Charles Bentley reveals the common outdoor storage mistakes that could be shortening the life of your garden essentials – and how to avoid them.

As summer draws to a close, Charles Bentley is highlighting the importance of storing outdoor essentials properly. Rain, damp, frost and fluctuating temperatures can quickly cause rust, mould, fading and other damage, particularly when items are left exposed.

“Outdoor storage is often an afterthought, but a little preparation can make a significant difference to how long your garden essentials last,” says Naomi Bentley, Director at Charles Bentley. “With the British weather being so changeable, taking the time to store items properly now can help keep them in good condition for seasons to come.”

From garden furniture and cushions to tools and barbecues, Charles Bentley shares the common storage mistakes to avoid this autumn.

1. Leaving cushions outside

One of the easiest mistakes to make is leaving garden cushions outdoors overnight or during periods of bad weather.

Even if cushions appear dry on the surface, moisture can become trapped inside the fabric and filling. Over time, this can lead to unpleasant odours, staining and mould.

Rather than leaving cushions out, bring them indoors when they aren't being used or place them inside a suitable outdoor storage box. This keeps them organised while protecting them from rain and damp.

Charles Bentley offers a range of outdoor storage boxes in different sizes and materials, providing a practical place to keep cushions, garden accessories and other smaller essentials.

2. Storing your barbecue incorrectly

A barbecue might be designed for outdoor use, but that doesn't mean it should be left completely exposed to the elements.

Rain and moisture can cause corrosion, while dirt and debris can build up on surfaces and components. Once barbecue season is over, give your barbecue a thorough clean and allow it to dry completely before covering it.

A water-resistant barbecue cover can provide an additional layer of protection from rain, dirt and UV exposure. Charles Bentley's range includes covers designed for different barbecue sizes, from smaller two-burner models to larger four-to-five burner and extra-large barbecues.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for storing your barbecue, especially when it comes to gas bottles and fuel.

3. Leaving garden tools to rust

Garden tools can easily become victims of neglect. Spades, shears, forks and other metal tools are particularly vulnerable to rust when they're left outside or stored somewhere damp.

Before putting tools away for an extended period, remove soil and dirt, clean them thoroughly and make sure they're completely dry.

Where possible, store tools in a dry shed or suitable storage area rather than leaving them exposed to rain. A shed also provides a dedicated space to keep gardening equipment organised and protected from the elements.

Charles Bentley offers a selection of garden sheds, including metal, wooden and plastic options, giving homeowners different solutions depending on the size and requirements of their garden.

4. Allowing furniture to become damp

Garden furniture is built to withstand outdoor conditions, but prolonged exposure to moisture can still accelerate wear and tear.

One common mistake is covering furniture while it is already wet. Trapping moisture underneath a cover can create a damp environment, potentially encouraging mould and mildew.

Before covering furniture, clean it and allow it to dry completely. Then choose a cover that's appropriate for the size and style of the furniture, ensuring it is securely fitted.

Charles Bentley's range includes covers for furniture sets, benches, swing seats, parasols and other outdoor essentials, with water-resistant and weather-resistant options designed to help protect furniture from rain, dirt and UV rays.

5. Waiting until winter arrives to protect your furniture

Perhaps the biggest mistake is leaving winter preparation until the weather has already turned.

As temperatures drop and rainfall increases, outdoor furniture can face months of challenging conditions. Preparing it before the worst of the weather arrives can help keep it looking its best and ready to use when spring returns.

Start by giving furniture a comprehensive clean and checking for any signs of damage. Remove cushions and accessories and store them somewhere dry. For larger pieces that need to remain outdoors, use a suitable weather-resistant furniture cover.

It's also worth checking covers periodically throughout the winter. Heavy rain, wind and debris can cause them to move or collect moisture, so keeping an eye on them helps ensure your furniture remains protected.

A garden doesn't have to be packed away just because summer is ending. By taking a little time to clean, cover and correctly store outdoor essentials, homeowners can help protect their investments and return to a garden that is ready for spring.

For outdoor storage, furniture covers and garden essentials, visit Charles Bentley.

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Notes to editor 

For media enquiries, including high-res images, expert comment and product samples contact Fay Clarkson at Honest Communications on fay@honestcommunications.co.uk.  

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Editors notes

Established in 1860, Charles Bentley is a sixth-generation family business and the UK’s leading manufacturer of brushware. What started as a chimney-sweeping brushes company has grown into a trusted British brand, with over 160 years of experience creating high-quality brushware for homes, businesses, and industry. Today, more than two million brushes and brooms are made every year, combining traditional values with modern manufacturing to meet the demands of customers across the UK and beyond. Alongside its brushware heritage, Charles Bentley is now known for a wide range of home, garden, and leisure products, from garden furniture and parasols to storage, barbecues, and decorative touches. Every piece is thoughtfully designed to bring comfort, style and practicality to everyday living. Still based in Loughborough, Charles Bentley continues to innovate while staying true to its long-standing values of quality, sustainability, and dependable customer service. Whether it’s a hand-finished broom or a beautifully crafted piece of garden furniture, the Bentley name is trusted by generations to deliver products that enhance everyday life.