Dubai, with its scorching summers and unpredictable weather patterns, is a city where outdoor spaces are cherished and utilized to the fullest. People love spending time in their gardens, balconies, and patios, enjoying the warmth and beauty of the outdoors. However, this enjoyment comes with a price: the harsh sun, dust storms, and occasional rain can take a serious toll on outdoor furniture. To protect these investments and extend their lifespan, many homeowners turn to outdoor furniture covers. While these covers offer great protection, there are several common mistakes that people often make when using them in Dubai. Here are the top five outdoor furniture cover mistakes to avoid.
1. Choosing the Wrong Material for the Covers
One of the most common mistakes is selecting the wrong material for outdoor furniture covers. In Dubai, the climate is intense, with long periods of intense sunlight, high temperatures, and occasional dust storms. Not all cover materials are designed to withstand these harsh conditions. For instance, materials like cotton or cheap polyester may not be durable enough to resist fading, tearing, or wear caused by the sun’s UV rays.
The best materials for outdoor furniture covers in Dubai are those that are UV-resistant, breathable, and water-repellent. Fabrics such as solution-dyed acrylic, vinyl, and high-quality polyester blends offer superior protection against UV rays and can help prevent fading. Moreover, breathable fabrics ensure proper air circulation underneath the cover, preventing mold and mildew buildup. Always check the material specifications before purchasing to ensure they are suitable for the extreme weather conditions in Dubai.
2. Not Securing the Covers Properly
The most common mistake is not properly securing outdoor furniture covers. Dust storms can be quite prevalent in Dubai, and the wind can pick up instantly too. This means if the covers are not fastened to the furniture tightly, they can blow away exposing the furniture to damage. This is especially true for lighter, less-stable covers that are not designed to withstand strong wind.
To avoid this, be sure that the covers you choose come with straps, drawstrings, Velcro fastenings, or any other means of keeping them tightened in place. Some covers are also constructed with reinforced corners and elastic hems to help keep them in windy weather. If your covers do not have these options, consider creating some DIY fasteners for securing them. This simple step can save you headaches as well as expenses replacing furniture.
3. Ignoring Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Outdoor furniture covers in dubai can get dirty, especially in a city like Dubai, where dust and sand are prevalent. Over time, dirt, debris, and even bird droppings can accumulate on the covers, leading to stains and potential damage. Ignoring regular cleaning and maintenance is a big mistake that many people make, thinking that once the covers are on, they don’t need further attention.
To keep your outdoor furniture covers in the best condition, it’s essential to clean them regularly. Most high-quality covers are machine washable, but always check the care instructions to ensure you are cleaning them properly. If the covers cannot be machine-washed, spot cleaning with a gentle detergent and water can help maintain their appearance and functionality. It’s also a good idea to inspect the covers periodically for signs of wear and tear, as small holes or rips can lead to more significant damage over time.
4. Using Covers That Are Too Small or Too Large
When it comes to choosing an outdoor furniture cover, size is key. Many homeowners make the mistake of selecting one that is either too big or too small for their furniture. For example, with a cover that is too small, the entire furniture cannot be protected, and portions of it are usually left exposed to nature's own elements. In contrast, with a cover that is too big, it may sag and not sit snugly over the furniture, making it prone to dirt and moisture accretion underneath.
To prevent such a mix-up, always take stringent measurements of your outdoor furniture before buying covers and ensure the covers will fit the size and shape of each piece. Ideally, the cover will span the entire piece, including the legs, and fit snugly around it without any loose fabric. Some manufacturers produce covers for specific sets of furniture, which can help streamline your search for the right fit.
5. Not Taking the Covers Off When Not in Use
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is allowing the covers on the outdoor furniture all the time, even when it is not in use. Protecting furniture against all elements is important, but leaving the covers on for long periods of inactivity can trap moisture underneath them, giving bacteria and mildew a chance to grow. This can especially happen in humid months or after it rains.
So the best method to avoid this is to remove the covers once you take the furniture out for use. Drying the covers and furniture properly before putting the covers back on after rain would also be smart. An extended period of covering outdoors furniture includes cool months in Dubai. Now take the covers inside and store them in a dry, well-ventilated area to avoid possible damages.
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture covers are an essential investment in Dubai’s harsh climate, helping to protect your furniture from the intense sun, dust, and occasional rain. However, using them correctly is crucial to ensure their effectiveness. By avoiding these five common mistakes—choosing the wrong material, failing to secure the covers properly, neglecting maintenance, using covers of incorrect size, and leaving covers on too long—you can extend the lifespan of your outdoor furniture and enjoy your outdoor spaces year-round. With a little attention to detail, your furniture will remain in great shape, ready for you to enjoy whenever you wish.
