You spent a lot of money on your patio furniture and you expect to enjoy it for years to come. In order to keep it in top shape, some minimal maintenance in necessary, especially in preparation for the cold months. A good storage strategy can keep your furniture safe from damage and allow you to make the most of your money. Here are some patio furniture storage ideas and tips.Clean your furniture for the winter.Before putting your furniture away, give it a good cleaning. Remove grime and dust using a simple solution of water and mild soap or dishwashing detergent. For wicker or wood furniture, choose an oil-based soap. Use vinegar and water to remove mildew spots. As a mild scrubbing agent, baking soda on a sponge or a soft brush is an ideal option. Let the furniture dry in the sun and make sure no water is left behind � it may unknowingly damage your furniture while stored away.Store your furniture inside.Patio furniture of any type of material stores well in an unheated garage. Stack lightweight chairs on top of each other for maximizing your space. Even inside, protect your furniture from dust with covers you can buy or you can make yourself. If you don't have the luxury of an inside storage space, bring in at least the cushions and pillows, and store them in boxes until the following year. Roll your patio umbrella in a piece of plastic and store it inside.Cover your furniture.Covers for patio furniture come in all shapes and sizes, and are usually designed to fit a specific piece such as a bench, chair or patio table. If moving the furniture inside is not an option, invest in good-quality, heavy-duty covers, and use them to protect it during the cold months. These covers are usually weighted and come with security options such as Velcro strips. These allow you to tie the covers onto the furniture and keep them in place when the wind blows water or snow onto your patio.Check on the furniture periodically.Melted snow tends to sneak underneath the covers in unpredictable ways. Make a habit of periodically checking your furniture and remove all possible damaging factors. If you are living in an area with generous snow fall, make sure you remove it from the covers, to prevent damages caused by its weight and by melted snow.Following the tips above, you will preserve the beauty and quality of your patio furniture and be able to reap its benefits for many seasons. In addition, as soon as the spring makes its return, you will have nothing more to do but uncover your furniture and start enjoying it right away � for a season filled with outdoor fun.