As the long days of summer begin to fade, our attention naturally shifts from lazy afternoons outdoors to preparing for the cooler months ahead — packing away garden furniture, giving the garden a final tidy, and readying our outdoor spaces for winter’s arrival.
If you’ve bought new wooden patio furniture this year or are planning to add pieces for next season, now is the perfect time to start thinking about protecting them for next summer.
Treating or sealing your furniture before it faces another round of hot weather can help maintain its original colour, prevent sun damage, and extend its lifespan. Wooden furniture adds warmth and style to any outdoor space, but even short bursts of strong sunshine or fluctuating temperatures can affect its durability.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to treat wooden garden furniture in hot weather, discuss wood stain and sealing options, and share some family and pet-safe tips so your outdoor area stays both beautiful and worry-free.
Why Wooden Garden Furniture Needs Care in Hot Weather
Wood is a natural material, which makes it both beautiful and vulnerable.
During hot weather, the fibres in wooden furniture can dry out, crack, or fade. Direct sunlight and strong sunshine can accelerate sun damage, while fluctuating temperatures between hot days and cooler nights can stress the wood.
Even small issues like dirt or dust buildup can affect the finish over time. Regular maintenance, including using soapy water to remove dirt and debris, helps the wood retain its natural oils and prevents long-term damage.
How to Treat Wooden Garden Furniture in Hot Weather
If you’re wondering how to treat wooden garden furniture in hot weather, there are a few key steps to follow:
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Clean first
Begin by removing any dirt or grime using a mild soap and water solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip natural oils. -
Check the wood
Look for cracks, rough patches, or signs of fading. This is especially important if your furniture is teak, hardwood, or older pieces that have endured previous record temperatures. -
Apply a protective finish
A wood stain or UV-protective sealant will help shield your furniture from the sun and reduce the risk of cracking. Make sure the product you choose is child and pet-safe, especially if your outdoor area doubles as a play area. -
Follow manufacturer instructions
Allow sufficient drying time and, if possible, apply multiple thin coats rather than a single thick layer for the best results.
By taking these precautions, your wooden garden furniture can withstand heat and maintain its beauty throughout the summer months.
Choosing the Right Wood Stain for Garden Furniture
Using a wood stain can both enhance the colour of your garden furniture and add a layer of protection. Here’s what to look for:
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UV protection
Look for stains specifically formulated to prevent sun damage. -
Moisture resistance
Even in hot weather, occasional heavy rain or dew can affect untreated wood. -
Durability
High-quality stains last longer and reduce the need for repeated applications. -
Child & Pet-safe
Non-toxic options ensure your children and pets aren’t exposed to harmful chemicals.
Remember, the goal is not only to protect the wood but also to maintain its original colour and finish, giving your outdoor space a polished look throughout the season.
Our article Does outdoor wood furniture need to be sealed? shares our expert tips and takes a detailed look at the different types of wood stain available in the UK.
Tips for Protecting Wooden Garden Furniture in Hot Weather
Here are some practical strategies to keep wooden furniture in top shape during hot weather:
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Use shade
Place furniture under trees, pergolas, or parasols whenever possible. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. -
Cover furniture when not in use
Breathable covers prevent overheating and reduce UV exposure. -
Move pieces indoors during extreme heat
If you have a garage or shed, temporarily relocating furniture during a heatwave can prevent warping or cracking. -
Rotate seating and surfaces
Regularly changing the orientation of your furniture ensures even sun exposure and reduces localised fading.
These small steps make a significant difference in extending the lifespan of your wooden furniture while keeping your garden looking inviting.
Are Wood Treatments Safe for Pets?
Many homeowners worry about the chemicals in furniture treatments, as many can contain nasty VOCs.
Choosing child and pet-safe finishes and stains is essential if your outdoor space doubles as a play area or if animals lounge on your furniture:
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Always read the label for non-toxic claims.
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Allow treated furniture to dry completely before use.
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Avoid spraying finishes directly on areas where pets sit or play.
- Apply in a clean, well-ventilated area away from any children or animals.
By following these precautions, you can maintain beautiful, protected furniture while keeping your pets safe during the hot summer months.
Common Questions About Wooden Garden Furniture and Hot Weather
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Can wooden garden furniture withstand hot weather?
Yes, with the right care. Proper cleaning, wood stain or sealant, and protection from prolonged direct sunlight will help your furniture last longer. -
What are the risks of leaving wood untreated?
Untreated furniture can suffer from fading, cracking, and sun damage, especially during strong sunshine or when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. -
How often should I treat wooden garden furniture?
For best results, aim to treat or seal furniture at least once a year, ideally before the summer months begin. In areas with intense sun or heat, mid-season maintenance may be beneficial. -
Can cleaning with soapy water prevent sun damage?
Regular cleaning helps remove dirt and grime, which can accelerate wear, but UV protection with stain or sealant is necessary to protect against fading and cracking.
Wooden Garden Furniture vs Plastic Furniture
While plastic furniture (such as the poly-rattan shown above) is lightweight and resistant to rain, it can become brittle or warped under prolonged heat.
Wooden furniture, when treated correctly, offers durability, aesthetic appeal, and the charm of natural materials that plastic can’t match.
In our experience, teak, oak, or other quality hardwoods combined with proper wood stain treatments will outperform most plastic options in long-term outdoor use.
Wooden Garden Furniture vs Cast Aluminium
When considering garden furniture for your outdoor space, it’s worth comparing traditional wooden options with cast aluminium, especially if you’re planning for long-term durability.
Wooden garden furniture offers natural beauty, warmth, and a timeless aesthetic. With proper care — cleaning, sealing, and using a wood stain — it can last for many years.
However, it requires ongoing maintenance, especially in hot weather or regions with fluctuating temperatures. Sun, heat, and occasional heavy rain can cause cracking, fading, or warping if left untreated.
Cast aluminium furniture, on the other hand, is designed for all-weather resilience:
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Durable
It is naturally rust-free, resists UV sun damage, and maintains its structural integrity without the need for constant treatment. -
Practical
Lightweight yet sturdy, cast aluminium furniture is ideal for busy outdoor spaces, offering a stylish alternative that performs exceptionally well year after year. -
Weather-Resistant
Choosing cast aluminium is particularly advantageous in climates like the UK, where summers can bring strong sunshine followed by rain or cooler nights. -
Low Maintenance
Unlike wood, it won’t crack, fade, or require pet-safe coatings, making it a practical, low-maintenance investment for your garden.
Whether you prefer the warmth of wood or the timeless durability of cast aluminium, understanding their differences helps you make the best choice for your outdoor space and ensures your furniture stays beautiful for years to come.
Additional Tips to Keep You Cool When Using Garden Furniture
During hot weather, it’s not just the furniture that suffers — spending time outside can become uncomfortable.
Here are Lazy Magazine's tips for staying cool while enjoying your wooden garden furniture:
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Night cooling
Open windows or patio doors in the evening to allow cool air to circulate. -
Closing blinds
Helps reduce heat inside nearby rooms and keeps your house cool. -
Taking cool showers
Refresh before relaxing outdoors to enjoy your garden comfortably. -
Pair with a parasol and cushions
Add shade with a parasol and extra comfort with cushions — both help you stay cool while making your outdoor space more comfortable and inviting. -
Keep cold drinks nearby
Stay refreshed and hydrated with chilled water, iced tea, or your favourite summer cooler. -
Don’t forget suncream
Protect your skin while you enjoy the sunshine—it’s the simplest way to stay safe outdoors.
Combining furniture care with personal cooling strategies ensures your outdoor space remains inviting even in heat waves.
Our Final Thoughts: Treating Wooden Garden Furniture in Hot Weather
Treating or sealing wooden garden furniture in hot weather is essential for maintaining both appearance and longevity.
With a little effort — cleaning, applying wood stain, and protecting surfaces — your furniture can withstand strong sunshine, heat, and occasional rain.
Remember, untreated wood risks fading, cracking, and sun damage, while properly cared-for furniture retains its original colour and remains comfortable for years to come.
Using child and pet-safe finishes ensures your entire outdoor space is safe for family and animals alike.
By combining these strategies with smart placement, protective coverings, and periodic maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, durable garden furniture setup all summer long — no matter how hot it gets.
Share Your Outdoor Garden Furniture Moments...
We’d love to see how you care for your garden furniture in summer. Share your outdoor spaces on Instagram or Facebook by tagging @LazySusanFurniture to support our Do Some Good campaign.
