Squirrels often cause frustrating and expensive damage to patio furniture by chewing on cushions, wood, and straps. This destructive behavior stems from two primary instincts: the biological necessity to gnaw and the search for nesting materials. Like all rodents, squirrels possess incisor teeth that grow continuously, requiring them to constantly chew on firm objects. Furniture materials, especially wood and wicker, become unintended targets for this dental maintenance. Additionally, squirrels seek soft fibers for lining their nests, leading them to tear into seat cushions and pillows. Stopping this damage requires a layered strategy that first removes incentives, then applies aversion, and finally implements physical exclusion.
Eliminating Attractants
The first step in protecting outdoor furnishings involves making the patio area less appealing to squirrels. Squirrels are drawn by easily accessible food sources, which encourages them to linger and explore nearby objects, including your furniture. Removing all accessible food is a foundational method of pest management.
This includes securing or removing bird feeders, which are a major attractant, or switching to squirrel-proof models. Fallen fruits, nuts, or seeds from nearby trees should be raked up and disposed of regularly, as these provide a food source that keeps squirrels active in the vicinity. Outdoor pet food bowls should be brought inside immediately after mealtimes, and all garbage cans must be secured with tight-fitting lids to prevent scavenging.
Squirrels also look for sheltered spots and materials to build their dreys, or nests. Trim back any tree branches or dense shrubbery that hang directly over or near the furniture, as these provide easy access points. Securing nearby sheds or storage containers can also remove potential sheltered nesting sites close to your outdoor living space.
Applying Sensory Deterrents
Once the area is less inviting, the next step is to make the furniture unpleasant by using repellents that target the squirrel’s strong sense of taste and smell. Squirrels dislike pungent odors and spicy tastes, making capsaicin-based products effective. A common DIY repellent involves mixing cayenne pepper powder with water and white vinegar, which can be strained and applied with a spray bottle. The capsaicin irritates the squirrel’s nasal passages and mouth if they attempt to chew, while the vinegar provides an immediate odor deterrent.
Other simple homemade deterrents include soaking cotton balls in peppermint oil or strategically placing bars of strong-scented soap around the furniture. Peppermint oil provides a smell that squirrels dislike and is less likely to stain fabric than a pepper mixture. These solutions should be applied lightly onto the cushions, wicker, and wooden frames, checking a hidden spot first to ensure the solution does not damage the material.
Commercial repellent sprays containing bittering agents or concentrated capsaicin are also available and can be applied directly to the furniture. Consistency is important for sensory deterrents to be successful. The repellent effect diminishes over time and is reduced by rain, so reapplication is necessary every few days and immediately following precipitation.
Implementing Physical Barriers and Scare Tactics
Employing physical barriers and startling devices creates a direct obstacle or negative association with the furniture. The most direct method is to cover the furniture completely when it is not in use, denying squirrels access. Heavy-duty, tightly woven mesh netting or durable outdoor furniture covers provide an effective physical barrier that squirrels cannot easily chew through or bypass.
Physical deterrents also include motion-activated devices that surprise and frighten the animals. Motion-sensing sprinklers are effective, as the sudden spray of water and accompanying noise scares squirrels away without causing harm. Similarly, motion-activated noise emitters or reflective objects, such as old CDs or aluminum foil strips, can startle the animals, causing them to flee the area.
For visual deterrence, placing a plastic owl or hawk statue on the patio may initially keep squirrels away, as they recognize a predator silhouette. However, squirrels quickly learn that stationary objects pose no real threat, so the visual deterrents must be moved frequently to maintain their effectiveness. For long-term prevention, consider furniture made from less appealing materials, such as metal or high-density plastic, rather than easily gnawed wicker or soft wood.
Managing Severe Infestations
In cases where deterrence fails and squirrels are persistently causing significant damage or nesting directly in the furniture, more localized management techniques may be necessary. If squirrels are observed making a nest within the structure of the furniture or a nearby shed, identifying and sealing their entry point is important. This requires waiting until the animals are confirmed to be outside before blocking the access hole with mesh or wood.
Live trapping and relocation is an option, but it is heavily regulated and often discouraged due to legal constraints and the stress it places on the animal. Many state and local jurisdictions prohibit the unpermitted relocation of trapped wildlife, requiring the animal to be released on-site or humanely euthanized. Unauthorized relocation is often illegal, requiring specific permits or mandating release back onto the property where they were caught.
Before attempting any trapping, check with the local fish and wildlife agency for specific regulations, licensing requirements, and approved disposal methods. When property damage persists despite all other efforts, contact a licensed professional pest control service. These experts are equipped with the necessary permits, knowledge, and tools to manage the situation legally and effectively, especially when dealing with complex infestations.