Common Winter Storage Mistakes to Avoid

As temperatures cool and outdoor spaces quiet down, many people store away their umbrellas until spring comes around again. How you choose to store it during this winter could determine its longevity and be the difference between having it lasting several seasons and having it damaged before its next use begins!

Poor winter storage of umbrellas (beach umbrellas, patio umbrellas and portable shade solutions) is often one of the major causes of rust, fabric damage, mold growth and mechanical failure. Below are common storage mistakes to avoid in order to make sure your umbrella will be ready when warmer temperatures return!

Storing the Umbrella While It’s Still Wet

Storing an umbrella before it has fully dried can be one of the worst mistakes to make, with long-term implications and serious repercussions.

Even small amounts of trapped moisture can quickly lead to mold, mildew, fabric staining and unpleasant odors over time. Moisture also speeds rust formation on metal components stored in humid storage environments like garages or basements.

Before storing, always fully open and air dry an umbrella thoroughly, paying special attention to seams, folds and areas near its hub where water tends to collect. When possible, allow it to air dry in a shaded space away from direct sunlight which could fade fabric over time.

Leaving the Umbrella Outdoors All Winter

Some might assume umbrellas designed for outdoor use can withstand winter conditions without issue. However, prolonged exposure to snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and winter winds can dramatically shorten an umbrella’s lifespan and lower its performance levels.

Cold temperatures can render fabric stiff and brittle, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles may weaken metal joints or plastic components of the frame. Snow accumulation adds further stress.

In regions with cold winters, always take steps to bring your umbrella inside for storage during this season. Even having an enclosed patio won’t provide sufficient shelter from moisture or temperature extremes.

Storing Without Cleaning First

Storing an umbrella without first cleaning it is another common misstep, exposing fabric and finishes to sand, salt, sunscreen residue, bird droppings, and air pollutants, all of which have the ability to damage them over time.

Salt residue, in particular, is highly corrosive and could damage metal frames over the winter if left untreated. 

Before storage, gently clean the fabric using mild soap and warm water before rinsing thoroughly to allow it to dry completely. Wipe down all pole ribs and joints of an umbrella in order to clear away dirt or debris. Taking this small step could greatly extend its life! 

Folding or Compressing the Umbrella Too Tightly

Saving space requires many people to tightly compress or wrap their umbrellas for storage, yet while this might appear practical, too much pressure may permanently fold fabric or stress the ribs and joints.

Over time, this may compromise how smoothly an umbrella opens and closes, or lead to frame misalignment.

When possible, opt for using either its original storage sleeve or something more suitable, such as an airy cover that enables natural rest for your umbrella and avoid tying too tightly. The goal should always be protection and not compression!

Storing in Damp or Poorly Ventilated Areas

Basements, sheds and garages can make great storage locations, but some spaces may not be ideal. Damp or poorly ventilated spaces increase the risk of mold growth, rust formation and unpleasant odors arising in these spaces.

Even umbrellas stored under covers may become damaged if their environment contains high humidity levels.

Select a dry and well-ventilated storage area as possible, using moisture absorbers such as silica gel packs if humidity becomes an issue. Elevating your umbrella off of the ground may also help prevent exposure to excess moisture.

Ignoring the Frame and Moving Parts

Many people concentrate their attention solely on canopy fabrics when considering umbrella for winter storage. However, many people overlook other components like the frame, tilt mechanism and joints which could become just as vulnerable during that process.

Dirt and moisture that accumulate in moving parts may stiffen, corrode, or seize up by spring over time.

After cleaning, inspect the frame and moving components carefully to make sure everything is functioning as it should be.

Not Using a Proper Storage Cover

Relying solely on airtight plastic bags or lacking storage covers to store items is another common misstep, creating the ideal conditions for mildew growth and mold to form.

As much as an umbrella may provide shade from raindrops during a sunny day, leaving it open exposes it to dust, pests and damage during off-season storage.

Consider investing in a breathable fabric storage cover designed specifically for umbrellas to prevent dust accumulation while still permitting airflow through. 

Forgetting to Label or Organize Stored Umbrellas

If you store multiple outdoor items during winter storage, umbrellas can become misplaced, bent or even destroyed due to weightier objects weighing them down.

Store umbrellas upright or against walls where they won’t bear weight from other objects. Label storage bags if necessary to make spring setup easier and safer.