How to Keep Squirrels From Chewing on Patio Furniture

Squirrels are notorious for their chewing habits, and your patio furniture can become an easy target. This article explores effective strategies for How To Keep Squirrels From Chewing On Patio Furniture, protecting your outdoor investment and maintaining a beautiful space.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior and Their Attraction to Furniture

Why do squirrels find patio furniture so appealing? Often, it’s not about food. Squirrels have constantly growing teeth, requiring them to gnaw on various materials to keep them filed down. Your wicker chairs, wooden tables, and even metal furniture legs can become perfect “grindstones” for their teeth. Additionally, some furniture materials, especially wood treated with certain sealants, might have a scent that attracts squirrels.

Effective Methods to Deter Squirrels From Your Patio Furniture

Protecting your patio furniture requires a multi-pronged approach. Here’s a breakdown of proven methods:

Physical Barriers: Covering your furniture with durable, weather-resistant covers is a simple yet effective way to keep squirrels at bay. Tightly securing the covers is crucial to prevent squirrels from getting underneath. For smaller items, consider storing them indoors when not in use.
Taste Deterrents: Squirrels have a sensitive sense of taste. Applying commercially available squirrel repellents, often containing bitter ingredients like capsaicin (found in chili peppers), can make your furniture unappealing to them. Homemade solutions like a mixture of hot sauce and water can also work. Reapply these deterrents regularly, especially after rain.
Scent Deterrents: Strong smells that squirrels dislike, such as peppermint, mothballs, or garlic, can deter them. Soak cotton balls in these scents and place them strategically around and on your furniture.
Remove Food Sources: Eliminate any potential food sources that might attract squirrels to your patio. This includes bird feeders, fallen fruit, and open garbage cans. Keep the area clean and free of debris.

Natural Squirrel Repellents for Your Patio

If you prefer natural solutions, several options can help keep squirrels away:

Predator Urine: Sprinkling predator urine, such as fox or coyote urine, around your patio can create the illusion of a predator’s presence, deterring squirrels.
Planting Squirrel-Repelling Plants: Consider incorporating plants like daffodils, hyacinths, or geraniums, known to deter squirrels, into your landscaping.

Creating a Squirrel-Unfriendly Environment

Making your patio less inviting to squirrels can significantly reduce chewing problems:

Trim Overhanging Branches: Squirrels often use tree branches as access points to your patio. Trimming branches back at least six feet from your furniture can make it harder for them to reach.
Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These sprinklers can startle squirrels and discourage them from approaching your furniture.
Provide Alternative Chewing Options: Offer squirrels alternative chewing materials, like pine cones or small branches, in a designated area away from your patio. This can redirect their gnawing instincts.

Conclusion

Keeping squirrels from chewing on your patio furniture requires a consistent and proactive approach. By implementing a combination of physical barriers, taste and scent deterrents, and environmental modifications, you can effectively protect your outdoor furniture and enjoy your patio space without the worry of squirrel damage. Remember to reapply repellents regularly and maintain a clean and uninviting environment for these persistent critters.