Transforming Indoor Furniture Into Outdoor Furniture

Summer is finally here and it’s time to start enjoying the great outdoors. However, if you don’t have any outdoor furniture, or are looking to save some money, you may be wondering how to make your indoor furniture work outside. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and offer tips and ideas on how to make indoor furniture into outdoor furniture.

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Furniture

Not all indoor furniture is suitable for outdoor use. Look for furniture made from weather-resistant materials like teak, cedar, metal, or plastic. Avoid furniture made from materials that will rot, rust, or fade in the sun. Also, choose furniture that is easy to move, especially if you plan on storing it during the winter months.

Step 2: Clean and Prep the Furniture

Before taking your indoor furniture outside, give it a good cleaning. Use a mild soap and water to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. If you have wooden furniture, you may want to sand it down and apply a protective coating to prevent it from rotting or warping.

Step 3: Add Comfortable Cushions and Pillows

To make your indoor furniture comfortable for outdoor use, add cushions and pillows. Look for outdoor cushions made from weather-resistant materials, like Sunbrella fabric. You can also add decorative throw pillows to make your furniture look more inviting.

Step 4: Create Shade and Privacy

If you plan on using your indoor furniture outside for extended periods of time, you may want to create some shade and privacy. Consider adding an umbrella, canopy, or pergola to your outdoor space. You can also use outdoor curtains or screens to create a more intimate setting.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Repurpose a bookshelf or dresser as an outdoor bar.
Turn a coffee table into an outdoor ottoman by adding a cushion.
Use an indoor bench as outdoor seating by adding cushions and pillows.
Paint wooden furniture with outdoor paint to protect it from the elements.
Add a glass top to an indoor table to make it suitable for outdoor use.
Use indoor rugs outdoors by adding a waterproof backing.
Turn indoor curtains into outdoor drapes by adding grommets.
Hang indoor lighting fixtures outside to create a cozy atmosphere.
Make an indoor daybed into an outdoor lounge by adding outdoor cushions.
Use indoor planters as outdoor decor by filling them with weather-resistant plants.

Pros and Cons

While transforming indoor furniture into outdoor furniture can be a cost-effective solution, there are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

Save money by repurposing furniture you already own.
Create a unique outdoor space with one-of-a-kind furniture pieces.
Reduce waste by keeping furniture out of landfills.

Cons:

Not all indoor furniture is suitable for outdoor use.
Indoor furniture may not hold up well in harsh outdoor conditions.
Creating a cohesive outdoor space with indoor furniture can be difficult.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

As someone who has transformed indoor furniture into outdoor furniture, I can say that it’s a great option if you’re on a budget or looking to create a unique outdoor space. However, it’s important to choose the right furniture and take proper care of it to ensure it lasts. I recommend using outdoor cushions and pillows, and adding protective coatings to wooden furniture. Also, consider storing your furniture indoors during the winter months to prevent damage.

Question & Answer

Can I use any indoor furniture outside?

No, not all indoor furniture is suitable for outdoor use. Look for furniture made from weather-resistant materials like teak, cedar, metal, or plastic.