Garden furniture accessories to ensure your outdoor furniture lasts longer
The right garden furniture accessories determines how long you’ll be able to enjoy your Outdoor furniture. Whether it’s protective covers, care products, comfortable Outdoor cushions, parasol bases or spare parts – a well-thought-out range keeps your garden furniture in a condition that withstands daily use and the elements for several years. At Möbel Ehrmann, you’ll find complementary products to match your outdoor décor, and, if required, personalised advice from experienced interior design consultants.
Anyone who invests in high-quality garden furniture wants to know it is being looked after properly. This is exactly where well-designed garden furniture accessories come in: they protect delicate surfaces from sun and rain, ensure greater seating comfort and allow for minor repairs that prevent premature replacement.
Protective covers and tarpaulins as essential garden furniture accessories
A garden furniture cover is an essential part of any outdoor space. Weather, pollen, bird droppings and UV radiation cause long-term wear and tear on materials. A well-fitting protective cover reduces discolouration of wood, protects upholstery from moisture and prevents dirt from becoming lodged in wickerwork.
When buying a cover for garden furniture, there are a few things you should bear in mind:
- Fit: The cover should fit snugly without being too tight or too loose. Covers that are too small will tear, whilst those that are too large will flap in the wind.
- Material quality: Breathable fabrics with a water-repellent coating are more durable than plain plastic sheeting, under which moisture builds up.
- Ventilation: Air vents or mesh inserts prevent condensation from forming and helping mould to grow.
- Fastening: Drawstrings, Velcro fastenings or elastic bands keep the cover securely attached to the furniture, even in strong winds.
For seasonal sets, a full weatherproof cover is recommended; for frequently used sets, lighter covers that you can slip on quickly are ideal. In our lounge furniture overview and our range of garden sofas, you’ll find suitable models for which we stock matching protective covers.
Outdoor-Cushions and pads as textile garden furniture accessories
Outdoor Cushions are the connecting element between functional seating and a cosy lounge atmosphere. They transform the look of a set in a matter of minutes and make long evenings on the terrace noticeably more pleasant. When buying, look for a cover fabric that is UV-resistant, has a tight weave and good lightfastness – these properties determine how long the fabric will retain its appearance.
Quick-drying foam cores are particularly practical if the cushions do happen to get wet unexpectedly. For cushions that you want to leave outside overnight, materials with high water repellency and a removable, washable cover are ideal. If you don’t want to be constantly taking the cushions in and out, a spacious cushion box ensures that cushions are stored in a dry place whilst remaining within easy reach.
In terms of colour, Outdoor cushions can be flexibly combined with their surroundings. Muted natural tones have a timeless feel, whilst bold colours add a striking accent. If you want to furnish your Outdoor living room harmoniously, a coordinated colour palette across all textiles will help.
Parasol accessories and parasol stands in the garden furniture accessories range
A good parasol is more than just a source of shade—when properly equipped, it becomes a long-lasting companion on your balcony or terrace. The right parasol accessories includes sturdy parasol bases, covers, extension poles, ground sleeves and lighting elements.
When it comes to parasol bases, stability is key to safety. Rule of thumb: for every square metre of parasol canopy, the base should be designed to support around 10 to 15 kilograms. For freestanding cantilever umbrellas, base stands with steel or granite elements that can be weighted down are a tried-and-tested solution, as they provide a secure hold without the need to drill into the ground.
A protective cover for a folded-away parasol significantly extends the lifespan of the canopy fabric. If you do not fold your parasol away regularly, you should at least ensure, particularly during stormy weather, that the canopy is taut and clean to prevent water pockets from forming. Even small spare parts such as tension cables, spokes or ground adapters form part of a well-thought-out range of garden furniture accessories, such as those you’ll find here.
Garden furniture care products: Material-appropriate cleaning
Caring for your furniture in a way that suits the material is the most important factor in ensuring a long lifespan. Which garden furniture care product is best depends on the surface:
- Wood: Teak, eucalyptus or black locust benefit from a maintenance oil that nourishes the grain and protects against drying out. The wood should be cleaned and completely dry before oiling. A slight greying is not a fault, but a natural patina, which you can lighten with a degreying agent if you wish.
- Aluminium and steel: Clean painted metal surfaces gently with warm water and a mild cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the paintwork. A suitable touch-up pen can help with minor scratches.
- Wickerwork (poly rattan): Lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush will remove dirt from the gaps. Avoid using high-pressure washers, as these can cause permanent damage to the weave structure.
- Upholstery and covers: Removable cushion covers are usually machine washable at 30 degrees. For fixed upholstery, an upholstery cleaner helps to spot-clean specific areas.
A quick cleaning routine before and after the season is usually enough to keep materials looking their best in the long term. High-wear areas such as dining tables benefit from being cleaned two to three times per season.
Garden furniture spare parts: repair rather than replace
Not every fault means the end for a piece of furniture. With the right garden furniture spare parts , many minor damages can be easily repaired. Typical spare parts range from connecting screws to glides and plastic caps, right through to tension straps for loungers or covers for backrests.
If you’re unsure whether suitable spare parts are available for your model, please get in touch with us. Our advisory team will work with you to assess whether a repair is worthwhile or whether a targeted replacement purchase would be a better option. Particularly with branded models, it’s worth checking the manufacturer’s specific range of spare parts, as many manufacturers are designed to ensure their products remain serviceable in the long term.
Frequently asked questions about garden furniture accessories
How do I store Outdoor cushions over the winter?
Outdoor-You should store cushions in a dry, well-ventilated place during the winter. A cushion box on the patio or balcony is suitable for the transitional period; in winter, a frost-free room such as a cellar or storage room is recommended. Make sure the cushions are completely dry before storing them to prevent mildew stains.
How do I clean greyed teak?
Greyed teak can be revitalised using a special de-greying agent and a soft brush. Apply the product evenly, leave it to work, and rinse it off thoroughly. Once completely dry, teak oil can be used to nourish the grain. Conducting a preliminary test in a discreet area will help you evaluate the outcome beforehand.
Do I need a protective cover if my furniture is weatherproof?
Weatherproof does not mean immune to the elements. Even weatherproof materials benefit from a protective cover, as this means pollen, leaves and dirt are much less likely to become lodged in crevices and upholstery. A cover means less cleaning effort and a longer-lasting fresh appearance.
Personal advice at Möbel Ehrmann
Möbel Ehrmann is a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience in the furniture trade. We operate several branches in the Palatinate, Baden and Trier, combining in-store service with our online shop. If you’d like advice on suitable garden furniture accessories for your existing outdoor furniture, please feel free to drop by one of our showrooms – or visit our garden furniture showroom, where you can compare many models and accessories side by side.
Our interior design consultants take the time to understand your preferences, maintenance requirements and existing furniture layout. This helps you find the right accessories to match the material, style and intended use of your outdoor furniture. We look forward to your visit and will be happy to advise you – with no pressure to buy and with the eye for detail that has always characterised our family business.