As the last long finale weekend approaches and the evenings start to cool, it’s the perfect time to begin winding down your backyard for the season. Whether your outdoor space has been a hub for family BBQs, late-night fires, or peaceful solo mornings with coffee, it deserves a proper send-off—and a little care before the leaves begin to fall.

Here’s your complete guide to end-of-summer storage and organization, with smart tips to protect your outdoor investments and prep your backyard for an easy spring reset.

1. Start with a Clean Sweep

Before you start packing things away, give your backyard a good once-over.

• Sweep patios, decks, and walkways to remove leaves, dirt, and debris.

• Wipe down furniture and cushions with a mild soap and water solution.

• Clean and dry umbrellas, toys, and gardening tools before storing to prevent mould or rust.

✨ Pro tip: A leaf blower or pressure washer can make quick work of patios and decks, especially if it’s been a busy summer.

2. Sort and Store Summer Essentials

The best backyard storage tip? Keep similar items grouped together so spring setup is effortless.

• Pool gear & floaties: Fully deflate and dry before storing in airtight bins.

• Outdoor toys & games: Use labeled storage bins or large deck boxes to keep items tidy and protected.

• Garden tools: Wipe off any soil, oil the metal parts lightly, and store them in a shed or garage wall organizer.

🏷 Labeling bins now saves time later—and keeps everything visible when you're itching to get outside again come April.

3. Protect and Store Patio Furniture Properly

Patio furniture is an investment, and storing it well can dramatically extend its life.

• Cushions and textiles: Store them in waterproof storage bags or containers. If you’re tight on space, vacuum storage bags are great for compressing bulky cushions.

• Furniture frames: Stack chairs where possible and cover everything with breathable, waterproof covers. Avoid plastic tarps—they trap moisture.

• Grill prep: Deep clean your BBQ, disconnect the propane tank, and consider a fitted cover or moving it into a sheltered area.

🪑 If you don’t have indoor storage, look into a small shed or weatherproof deck box to protect your items through winter.

4. Tidy Up Your Garden Beds and Planters

Now’s the time to wrap up your garden and prep for fall planting, if that’s part of your plan.

• Pull up dead or spent annuals

• Trim back perennials and divide if needed

• Clean and empty planters if you're not planting mums or other fall blooms

🌿 Empty planters can crack in freezing temperatures if left with soil and moisture—best to clean and store them upside down or inside.

5. Don’t Forget the Lights and Decor

It’s easy to overlook the little things, but they’re often the quickest to fade or break if left out.

• Bring in string lights and lanterns before frost or moisture damage sets in.

• Store candles and solar lights indoors to prevent cracking or battery corrosion.

• Take down seasonal flags or signs and pack with your summer decor.

💡 Wrap string lights around a piece of cardboard or a spool to avoid tangling next spring.

6. Prep Now, Enjoy Later

Think of this seasonal reset as an investment in your peace of mind. With everything cleaned, sorted, and protected, your backyard will be ready to go when the weather warms up again. Plus, taking care of your gear now can save you from expensive replacements and frustrating spring surprises.

Need More Space for Storage?

If your garage or shed is bursting at the seams, it might be time to reassess your storage options. Whether it’s building a custom shed or rethinking your outdoor layout, a little planning goes a long way.

And if you're considering upsizing or downsizing to suit your lifestyle—whether it’s more backyard space or less to maintain—I’d be happy to connect you with trusted local resources.