As the colder season approaches, it’s never too early to start preparing your home for winter. While there are several important indoor prep tasks to check out, there is also a cover for outdoor items to prepare for frost and snow.

One of the biggest concerns for the winter season is outdoor furniture and patio items. After all, moisture build-up is notorious for damaging materials and creating mold and mildew.

But you may not need to cover up as much as you think. As it turns out, there are a few things you can leave outside during the winter season without a cover (although covers are never a bad idea). Here’s an expert look at outdoor items you can leave uncovered for the winter season.

Teak furniture

Teak furniture is timeless, sophisticated and fully reflects the outdoor environment. But if you’ve ever bought yourself a teak outdoor furniture set, then you know how expensive they can be, which means you’ll want to keep it clean and protect it from any harsh conditions.

Good news – our experts say this material is perfectly safe to withstand the winter months outdoors.

“Teak is a dense hardwood with natural oils that make it highly resistant to moisture and extreme temperatures,” says Colleen Bennett, founder and interior designer at CBB Design Firm. “Over time, teak develops a beautiful silver patina that adds to its rustic charm. It can handle winter weather well, especially if it is cleaned and sealed annually for added protection.”

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Metal tables and chairs

Part of being able to keep your outdoor items uncovered in the winter is investing in pieces made to withstand the elements. Metal tables and chairs, and even metal items for the yard are definitely on the list, according to our experts.

“Metal tables and chairs are one of the safest pieces of furniture to leave outdoors during the winter, especially if they’re powder coated for extra durability,” says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors.

She says powder coating is incredibly beneficial for these pieces to maintain their appearance and functionality because the coating prevents moisture from building up and leading to rust.

Concrete or fiberglass

Do you have anything made of concrete or fiberglass around the house? Then there is no need to take extra precautions when the colder weather starts to arrive. According to Jones, these materials do well in all weather conditions, but there is one caveat when it comes to decorating your fiberglass patio.

“Lightweight fiberglass pieces tend to blow around in high winds, so consider securing them with sandbags,” she says.

Anything made of aluminum

Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor furniture or patio decorations for several reasons. Not only can these sets be cost-effective, but they’re easy to maintain and move around if you ever get the itch to redecorate. But even better, this material is perfect for keeping up with winter weather conditions.

“Aluminum is rust-resistant and very durable in both cold and wet conditions,” says Bennett. “Its lightweight nature makes it easy to move as needed and won’t corrode or degrade in snow or rain. Powder-coated aluminum adds an extra layer of protection, making it even more weatherproof.”

All-Weather Wicker

Like teak, wicker is another stunning material for outdoor patios. But the key to keeping your knitwear outdoors in winter without any covers is an all-weather option.

“Made from high-density polyethylene, the first is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and resist cracking or fading, making it safe to be outside in the winter with this feature,” says interior designer Victoria Holly.

Stainless steel furniture

If you’re shopping for a stainless steel alternative to aluminum, good news—you’re still buying a material that can withstand winter weather. To choose the best piece for outdoor storage,

“Stainless steel is corrosion resistant and very durable in harsh weather conditions,” says Bennett. “It won’t rust or warp, making it suitable for cold and snowy environments.”

One additional piece of advice he gives: “Opt for higher quality stainless steel for outdoor use, as it offers the best protection against moisture and temperature fluctuations.”

Weather resistant plastic

From toddler dining sets or playhouses to jolly gnomes and more, weather-resistant plastic is another material on our list that can go uncovered. But in terms of furniture, Bennett says the inclusion of HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is what makes your furniture strong enough for this weather.

“This material is easy to maintain and comes in a variety of colors and styles, offering a maintenance-free wood look,” she says. “HDPE furniture is ideal for areas with heavy snow or rain.”

Fire Pits

While it’s safe to say that you won’t be comfortable outside anytime soon, that doesn’t mean you have to jump at the chance. If you have a fire somewhere in your yard, it’s perfectly safe to keep it outdoors for the cold temperatures ahead.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron can add a beautiful contrast to your patio design while remaining pristine throughout the winter season.

“With the right powder coating, wrought iron is a tough and timeless option that can withstand snow and freezing temperatures,” says Holly. “This is the most durable option for keeping outside all winter – but make sure you like the more patinated look.”