Winter is here, and while we’re cozying up inside with hot cocoa and a good book, it’s easy to forget about some of the items we’ve left outside. But trust me, there are a few things that just don’t fare well in the cold. Leaving them out can lead to some pretty frustrating surprises come spring. So, grab your favorite mug, settle in, and let’s chat about the five things you should definitely bring inside before the snow starts to fall.
1. Outdoor Furniture
Ah, outdoor furniture, the pride of summer barbecues and lazy afternoons. But come winter, that lovely patio set can become a sad, weathered shell of its former self if left outside. Rain, snow, and ice can wreak havoc on wood, metal, and fabric, leading to rust, mold, or worse—splintered wood. If you don’t have room in the garage or shed, consider investing in some heavy-duty furniture covers. At the very least, bring in those cushions. Your future self will thank you for not having to scrub away grime come spring.
2. Grills and Smokers
Let’s be real: nothing beats a summer cookout, but that grill or smoker sitting outside all winter? Not so great. Leaving it out can lead to rust and clogged burners, not to mention a delightful home for rodents looking for a warm spot. If you can, wheel it into the garage or a covered area. If it has to stay outside, give it a good cleaning and cover it up tight. After all, you want it to be ready for those spring BBQs, not a rusty relic of summer past!
3. Garden Hoses
Picture this: it’s spring, and you’re ready to tend to your garden. You grab your hose, only to find it’s cracked and leaking. Ugh! Leaving hoses outside can lead to water freezing inside them, which can cause cracks. Make it a habit to drain and store your hoses in a shed or garage before the first frost. If you’re feeling particularly organized, you could even wrap them up like a little gift—just don’t forget to unwrap them once it’s warm again!
4. Lawn Tools
Let’s not kid ourselves: lawn tools aren’t exactly the most exciting items on our to-do lists, but they deserve some love too! Leaving them out in the elements can lead to rust, dull blades, and all sorts of other problems that’ll make your gardening tasks harder than they need to be. A simple solution? Bring them inside or store them in a shed. If you can’t squeeze them in, a tarp or cover can offer some protection until spring rolls around.
5. Pet Supplies
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about your furry friends. If you’ve got outdoor pet supplies—like bowls, toys, or even dog houses—these don’t belong outside in winter. Water bowls can freeze, making it impossible for your pets to hydrate, and toys can become brittle in the cold. If you’ve got a dog house, make sure it’s insulated, and consider bringing their favorite toys inside to keep them in good shape. Your pets will appreciate the extra love, and you won’t find yourself replacing their stuff every spring!
Wrap Up
So, there you have it—five things you should never leave outside all winter. It’s all about saving yourself some hassle down the line and making sure your belongings are ready for the warmer months ahead. Remember, winter may seem like a long stretch, but spring will be here before you know it, and you’ll want to be ready to enjoy it fully!
As you prepare for the season, take a little time to do a quick inventory of your outdoor space. A few small changes can make a big difference. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy those cozy nights by the fire, knowing you’ve taken care of your outdoor gear. Cheers to a warm and worry-free winter!
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