#221 Perennial Garden Furniture To avoid replacing and restoring outdoor furniture, store it inside or at least cover it during inclement weather -- especially when the snow is blowing! When I get my garden tools ready for winter and rub them with a protective coat of oil I do the same for my outdoor metal furniture. Just remember to wipe off the excess oil before using it in the spring. If you see rust developing on your metal furniture -- treat it as soon as possible to save it from permanent damage. Use a wire brush to remove light rust. More serious situations may need to be treated with a rust converter which is brushed over the rusted area (follow manufacturer's directions) and interacts chemically with the rust, converting it to a black polymer coating. In most cases this coating will act as a primer if you plan to give the furniture a new look!