Cushions and Pillows

“Taking them inside during the off season or when not in use will prolong the life of any cushions, regardless of what they are made out of,” say Mary Lovett Beck and Anna Garcia, the co-founders of Varnish Collection, a Georgia-based line of rattan furniture. “It doesn’t take a minute to throw them back on and then your furniture always looks fresh! And coming from Columbus, where the pollen season drenches us at the start of spring, we have learned that furniture covers are worth every penny.”

Bug-Repelling Accessories

Citronella candles and torches are essential to enjoying outdoor spaces in the summertime, but when you're not actively using them, it’s best to store them indoors and out of the elements. Just one heavy rain can leave your citronella candle cracked and waterlogged, while the elements can take a toll on bamboo tiki torches.

Woven Furniture

While there’s nothing more Southern than a set of wicker or rattan furniture, it’s probably best to save these for covered or screened-in porches, or if you're using them on an open deck, you'd be wise to invest in sturdy furniture covers to protect them when they're not in use. “Our rule of thumb is to limit direct and prolonged exposure to the elements for any furnishings in order to keep them looking their best,” say Beck and Garcia. “The beauty of rattan is that it can change with age, but these small measures of care will ensure its preservation.”

Pizza Ovens and Grilling Accessories

It’s tempting to leave these items in the location where you’ll use them, but even if you have waterproof covers to protect them in normal circumstances, it’s best to bring such cooking tools inside during inclement weather or times of unrelenting sun/heat exposure to ensure their longevity. 

Metal Anything

“I wouldn’t store anything metal that hasn’t been powder coated,” says Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors in Atlanta. “Over time, even if the deck is covered, you’ll end up with rust stains on your floors that are really hard to remove. It’s a mistake you only make once!”

Potted Plants Without Proper Drainage

To prevent excess water from pooling at the base of your containers and potentially causing damage to your deck, be sure to select those that allow for fuss-free drainage. That’ll also help with the health of your plants. 

Snacks and Other Perishables

“Nothing ruins a barbecue faster than discovering critters have crashed the cooler,” says Trevor Ferguson of Teak + Table, an outdoor furniture company based in Charleston, South Carolina. That’s why perishables should be stashed inside until party time or tucked away in airtight containers made for outdoor use.

Electronics

Unless you’re using a console designed specifically for storing electronics outdoors, notes Ferguson, it’s best to stash other wired gadgets inside.