If your outdoor furniture sits near a sprinkler system, the best approach is to stop the sprinkler from hitting it whenever possible, then make the furniture as hard to keep wet as possible. I’d first adjust or redirect the sprinkler heads, lower the pressure if they’re misting the area, and switch to drip irrigation or a timer that waters early enough for surfaces to dry. A simple shield—like a low screen or planted border—can also block overspray without making the area look cluttered. If the furniture is movable, pull it a foot or two out of the spray zone; even a small change makes a big difference over a season.
Next, keep the legs out of standing water. Water that pools around furniture feet is one of the fastest ways to start rust, especially in cities where runoff carries salts and grit. Use rubber or plastic glides, small paver feet, or a slightly raised gravel base so air can circulate underneath. Check that the patio slopes away from the furniture and clear any clogged drains. Don’t let metal legs sit directly in wet soil or mulch.
If you’re buying new furniture, choose materials that suit the spot: powder-coated aluminum, stainless steel—ideally 304 or 316—galvanized steel, HDPE, or teak. Cheap mild steel is the one to avoid near constant moisture. For furniture you already own, inspect welds, joints and scratches every few weeks. Touch up chips immediately with a rust-inhibiting primer and matching topcoat; on powder-coated pieces, a clear protective wax or sealant can help, but only apply it to a clean, dry surface. Avoid trapping water in crevices.
Covers can help, but they can also make things worse if used badly. Use a breathable, waterproof cover only after the furniture is dry, and leave a little ventilation so condensation can escape. Never wrap up wet metal. A small deflector between the sprinkler and the furniture is often more effective than a full cover, because it prevents the water from landing in the first place.
Finally, make drying part of your routine. After the sprinkler runs, wipe down metal surfaces if they’re wet, remove mineral spots, and check the feet and fasteners. Lubricate moving parts, replace rusty screws with stainless ones, and store cushions separately. If rust does appear, sand it back to bare metal, treat it, and repaint before it spreads. Rust is much easier to prevent than reverse, so a few small adjustments around the sprinkler and a quick seasonal routine will usually keep urban outdoor furniture looking good.