Guide: Off-Season Care & Maintenance for Your Ethan Outdoor Furniture

Ethan Outdoor Furniture is crafted to endure the elements and stand the test of time. Whether it's a dining suite on the deck or a signature bench in the garden, a little seasonal care helps preserve the beauty and integrity of each piece. As the cooler months set in, follow our comprehensive guide below to care for your furniture properly and keep it looking its best year after year.

Why Off-Season Care Matters

Every Ethan piece is crafted from sustainably sourced Iroko hardwood - chosen for its natural resilience, rich grain, and ability to withstand New Zealand’s varied climate. While inherently durable, regular off-season care helps preserve both beauty and longevity. It’s about maintaining the comfort and integrity of your outdoor living investment.

Step-by-Step: Caring for Your Ethan Furniture

This guide is a practical overview. For detailed instructions on specific materials and finishes, please visit our Care & Maintenance page where you’ll find downloadable PDFs and product-specific guides.

1. Gather Essentials: 

Start by assembling your care kit:

· Mild, eco-friendly soap (avoid harsh chemicals), or non-bleach-based cleaners such as Dryden's Surface Cleaner, Wet & Forget, or Hit the Deck

· Soft brush or cloth

· Low-pressure hose for rinsing

· Oil or woodstain such as Dryden Wood Oil or Sikkens Cetol HLSe

· Ethan’s custom protective covers

· Fabric Guard reproofing spray

2. Pre-Clean Up:

Sweep away leaves, dust, and any nests or cobwebs - particularly around joints and under cushions. This helps prevent wear and ensures your furniture is ready for cleaning, oiling, or staining.

3. Wash Furniture and Covers:

Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to gently clean the timber. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely in open air. Take the opportunity to wash protective covers and fabric items too.

4. Re-Oil and Apply Woodstain:

Once dry, lightly sand contact surfaces if needed to smooth out any rough patches. Then, apply your chosen oil or woodstain to protect the timber and enhance its natural beauty.

5. Add Protective Covers:

Our covers, tailor-made with premium WeatherMAX 80 fabric, are purpose-built for durability, simple maintenance, and compact storage. Fitted to each Ethan piece, they protect against rain, dirt, UV rays, and dust, while allowing the timber to breathe naturally.

6. Store Cushions:

Ensure all cushions and soft furnishings are clean and dry before storing them in a dry, ventilated space. Our handcrafted Ethan Storage Chest is the perfect solution for keeping seat cushions protected, dry, and within easy reach throughout the year.

We also supply large duffle-style storage bags for covers, cushions, or other bulky items. Made from the same premium WeatherMAX fabric, they’re a practical and cost-effective way to keep everything clean, dry, and protected.