How To Stop Squirrels From Eating Plastic Furniture: Tips For Protecting Your Outdoor Decor

Are you tired of finding your plastic furniture chewed up by squirrels? It can be frustrating to invest in outdoor decor only to have it destroyed by these furry little creatures.

But don’t worry, there are ways to protect your furniture and maintain the aesthetic of your outdoor space.

In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to stop squirrels from eating your plastic furniture. We will discuss the behavior of squirrels and how to use natural repellents, physical barriers, and chemical deterrents to keep them away.

Additionally, we will explore how to squirrel-proof your yard and alternative furniture materials to consider.

By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and tools to protect your outdoor decor and keep it looking great for years to come.

Understand the Behavior of Squirrels

You’ll want to pay attention to the behavior of those pesky squirrels if you want to prevent them from munching on your plastic furniture. Squirrels are known to be active during the day and they often move around in search of food. They’re also very curious creatures and will explore anything they find interesting.

This is why they might end up chewing on your plastic furniture, mistaking it for something edible. To stop squirrels from eating your plastic furniture, you’ll need to understand their habits.

Squirrels are natural climbers and they can easily climb up trees, fences, and walls. They also have sharp teeth that they use to chew through almost anything. So, if you have plastic furniture in your garden, it’s important to check for any signs of damage caused by squirrels.

If you notice any damage on your plastic furniture, you can take some measures to prevent further damage. One way to do this is to create a physical barrier around your furniture. You can use wire mesh or chicken wire to cover your furniture and prevent squirrels from accessing it.

You can also try spraying your furniture with a mixture of chili powder and water. This will deter squirrels from eating your furniture, as they don’t like the taste of spicy food. By understanding the behavior of squirrels and taking preventive measures, you can protect your outdoor decor from being damaged by these pesky critters.

Natural Repellents

Using natural repellents can be a great way to keep those pesky critters at bay and maintain the beauty of your outdoor space. Here are some natural repellents that can help keep squirrels away from your plastic furniture:

• Peppermint oil: Squirrels can’t stand the strong smell of peppermint oil. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray it on your plastic furniture. Repeat this once a week or after a heavy rain.

• Cayenne pepper: Squirrels also dislike the spicy taste of cayenne pepper. Sprinkle some cayenne pepper on your plastic furniture or mix it with water to create a spray. This will discourage the squirrels from chewing on your furniture.

• Predator urine: Squirrels are afraid of predators, so using predator urine can help keep them away. You can purchase predator urine from a garden center or online. Simply spray the urine around your plastic furniture to create a barrier that the squirrels won’t cross.

Natural repellents can be effective at keeping squirrels away from your plastic furniture. However, it’s important to note that these repellents may need to be reapplied periodically and after rain or watering. It’s also important to keep in mind that natural repellents may not work for all situations and may need to be combined with other methods to achieve the desired results. With some persistence and experimentation, you can find the best natural repellents to protect your outdoor decor.

Physical Barriers

If you’re tired of squirrels getting into your outdoor furniture, physical barriers might be the solution for you. Netting can be hung over plants or around larger furniture pieces to keep squirrels out.

Chicken wire can be used to enclose smaller items or create a barrier around a garden.

PVC pipes can also be used to create a barrier around furniture legs or other items that squirrels like to chew on.

Netting

Covering your plastic furniture with netting is a clever way to keep those pesky squirrels from nibbling on your precious outdoor decor! Netting is a physical barrier that can be draped over your furniture and secured in place to prevent squirrels from accessing it. It is lightweight, flexible, and easy to use, making it an ideal solution for protecting your plastic furniture.

One advantage of using netting is that it allows sunlight and air to pass through, so your plants and other outdoor decor will still receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen. Additionally, netting is an affordable option that can be easily found at your local hardware store or online. However, it is important to ensure that the netting you choose is strong enough to withstand the weight of squirrels and other small animals. A mesh size of about 1 inch is recommended to prevent squirrels from getting tangled in the netting. With the right netting, you can enjoy your beautiful outdoor decor without worrying about squirrels ruining it!

Pros	Cons
Affordable	May not be aesthetically pleasing
Allows sunlight and air to pass through	Must be secured tightly to prevent squirrels from entering
Lightweight and flexible	May not be strong enough to withstand the weight of larger animals		Easy to install and maintain	May deteriorate over time due to exposure to weather conditions

Chicken Wire

To keep critters out of your yard, you’ll want to consider chicken wire as a protective option for your plastic furniture. This wire is made from galvanized steel and comes in various sizes and strengths.

By wrapping the chicken wire around your furniture, you can create a barrier that squirrels and other animals won’t be able to penetrate. Chicken wire is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. You can purchase it at most hardware stores and cut it to the size you need with wire cutters.

Once you have the wire in place, you can secure it with zip ties or staples. Just be sure to wear gloves when handling the wire, as it can be sharp and may cause injury.

With chicken wire protecting your plastic furniture, you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about damage from furry visitors.

PVC Pipes

Get creative and use PVC pipes to keep those pesky critters out of your yard! PVC pipes can be used in a variety of ways to protect your outdoor decor from squirrels. One method is to create a PVC pipe frame around your furniture, such as a table or chair, and attach a mesh screen or chicken wire to the frame using zip ties. This will create a barrier between the squirrels and your furniture, making it difficult for them to climb or chew through the material.

Another method is to create a PVC pipe tunnel or maze leading up to your furniture. This will deter squirrels from even attempting to reach your furniture, as they will be discouraged by the obstacle course. You can create a simple tunnel by connecting several PVC pipes together with elbow joints, or get creative and build a more complex maze using different shapes and angles. Not only will this keep squirrels away from your furniture, but it can also add a fun and unique element to your outdoor decor.

Pros	Cons
Affordable	May not be aesthetically pleasing
Easy to assemble	May take up extra space
Durable	May require some DIY skills
Can be used for various outdoor items	May not be effective against all types of critters		Provides additional storage space	May not hold heavy items or withstand harsh weather conditions

Chemical Deterrents

Although chemical deterrents may be effective in keeping squirrels away from your plastic furniture, they can also be harmful to the environment and other wildlife. If you do choose to use a chemical repellent, make sure to read the label carefully and follow all instructions.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Chemical deterrents often have a strong odor that can be unpleasant for humans. You may want to avoid using them in areas where you and your family spend a lot of time.
• Some chemical repellents can also be harmful to pets and other animals. If you have pets or wildlife in your yard, be sure to keep them away from any sprayed areas.
• Chemical deterrents can wash away in the rain, so you may need to reapply them frequently.
• It’s important to note that some chemical repellents are toxic and can harm the environment. Be sure to choose a product that is safe for your area.

If you’re looking for a more natural solution, there are several DIY repellents you can make using ingredients like hot peppers, garlic, and vinegar.

While chemical deterrents may seem like a quick fix for keeping squirrels away from your plastic furniture, it’s important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks. If you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly solution, there are several options available. Whether you choose to use a DIY repellent or opt for a more natural approach, taking steps to protect your outdoor decor can help ensure that it stays looking great for years to come.

Squirrel-Proofing Your Yard

Protect your yard from pesky squirrels by implementing these easy and effective strategies. Squirrels are notorious for eating plastic furniture and destroying outdoor decor. By following these tips, you can keep your yard looking beautiful without worrying about squirrel damage.

One effective strategy for squirrel-proofing your yard is to use physical barriers. This can be as simple as placing chicken wire around your garden beds or wrapping tree trunks with metal mesh. Another option is to use squirrel baffles on your bird feeder poles to prevent squirrels from climbing up and stealing birdseed. By creating physical barriers, you can limit the access squirrels have to your yard and outdoor decor.

Another strategy is to make your yard less attractive to squirrels. This can be done by removing food sources, such as fallen fruit and nuts, and keeping trash cans securely closed. You can also plant squirrel-resistant plants, such as daffodils, alliums, and hyacinths, which squirrels tend to avoid. By making your yard less appealing to squirrels, you can reduce the likelihood of them coming into your yard and damaging your outdoor decor.

Implementing these strategies can help you squirrel-proof your yard and protect your outdoor decor. By using physical barriers, removing food sources, and planting squirrel-resistant plants, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space without having to worry about squirrels wreaking havoc. Try these tips and enjoy a squirrel-free yard today!

Barrier Type	Pros	Cons
Chicken Wire	Inexpensive, easy to install	May not be aesthetically pleasing
Metal Mesh	Durable, long-lasting	Can be expensive
Squirrel Baffles	Effective at keeping squirrels away from bird feeders	May not work for all types of bird feeder poles
Squirrel-Resistant Plants	Low maintenance, attractive	May not be effective in all regions

Alternative Furniture Materials

Now that you’ve taken steps to squirrel-proof your yard, it’s time to consider alternative materials for your outdoor furniture.

Plastic furniture is particularly susceptible to squirrel damage, but there are other options available.

First, consider metal furniture. Not only is it durable and long-lasting, but it’s also less appealing to squirrels. They don’t enjoy chewing on metal, and it’s harder for them to climb on. Plus, metal furniture can add a modern touch to your outdoor decor.

Another option is wooden furniture, particularly if it’s made from a hardwood like teak or cedar. These woods are naturally resistant to insects and moisture, which means they’ll be less appealing to squirrels. Additionally, if you treat the wood with a sealant or stain, it will be even more durable and long-lasting.

By considering alternative materials for your outdoor furniture, you’ll be able to protect it from squirrel damage while also adding a fresh look to your yard. So, as you shop for new pieces or consider replacing old ones, keep in mind the benefits of metal or hardwood options.

Conclusion: Maintaining Your Outdoor Space

To maintain a beautiful and squirrel-free outdoor space, you’ll need to stay proactive in your efforts. Regularly check for any signs of damage or intrusion. Keep an eye out for any chew marks or scratches on your furniture, as well as any squirrels or other wildlife that may be lurking around. If you notice any damage, take immediate action to repair or replace the affected areas.

In addition to regular maintenance, it’s important to take preventative measures to keep squirrels away from your outdoor decor. One effective method is to use squirrel-proof bird feeders, which are designed to keep squirrels from accessing the food inside. Another option is to install motion-activated sprinklers, which will scare away any squirrels that come too close.

Finally, be sure to keep your outdoor space clean and free of debris. This will help discourage squirrels from making themselves at home in your yard. Sweep up any fallen leaves or branches, and make sure to dispose of any food scraps or other potential sources of attraction.

By staying vigilant and taking these simple steps, you can enjoy a beautiful and squirrel-free outdoor space all year round.