Christine Blau 
As warmer temps arise, sprucing up our backyards is what we’re glossing over (‘new season, new space,’ as we say).
Now’s the time to give your backyard that much-needed refresh with some of the most stunning patio sets, chaise loungers and more we rounded up (trust us, once you see these sets, you’ll be swooning like us).
From wicker armrests that are practically falling apart at the seams to patio tables that look like the weather’s gotten the best of them, it’s just about time.
Conveniently, we ran the gamut of the best online retailers to buy patio furniture from, whether you’re interested in a complete set, a table for entertaining or simply a sectional sofa for soaking in the sunbeams.
Not to mention, a quality outdoor gazebo may be something to add to your wishlist for the warm weather ahead. Or, picking up one of our favorite outdoor fire pits can help complete your backyard space.
“I prefer a patio aesthetic that lets the garden and nature be the focal point,” Meg Lonergan, Houston-based interior designer, told the New York Post. “But bright colors can remind you of the beach, [while] wickers and rattans can remind you of Europe. I think people lean towards a certain style of exterior furniture to remind them of good memories spent outdoors.”
To ensure you’re receiving the crème de la crème of patio furniture, we turned to a team of design experts to share some considerations to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor patio furniture — including a breakdown of commonly used materials and how to maintain and care for your set — in our in-depth FAQ section following our top retailers.
Take a look at the 23 best places to buy outdoor patio furniture this year, from Wayfair to Amazon. There’s nothing quite like being prepared before the new season emerges, either.
Click to jump to a particular section:
What it’s known for: Amazon is a retailer (as we all know) that has a little bit of everything in store for various home aesthetics — in a wide price point range. Overall, we notice Amazon has a warm and home-y vibe, offering plenty of conversation sets and odds and ends for your backyard space.
We don’t want to say we’re saving the best for last, but with Prime’s two-day shipping, it’s hard not to shop (and love) the patio furniture on Amazon. Note: Some outdoor patio furniture is on sale ahead of this year’s Prime Day.
The stunning 7-Piece Outdoor Furniture Set by Sunlei ($499) is nearly screaming your name to order it, decked out with its cushiony, homey feel. Another fitting option for your yard is Greesum’s 3-Piece Rocking Wicker Bistro Set ($160) for a quality, comfortable look and feel.
Also great is Ovios’ Modern Wicker Patio Set ($799) and Tangkula’s 4-Piece Conversation Set with Glass Top Coffee Table ($360) if you’re looking to add some timeless, vibrant charm to your yard.
For some shade, Safavieh’s Elegance Valence Tilt Umbrella ($152) is a white and navy option that’s photogenic and practical, too.
What it’s known for: West Elm upholds a contemporary and sleek aesthetic. Think: natural textures, slim frames and comfortable, cushioned appeal. Each piece is well-made and fairly priced, allowing you to hand-pick elevated pieces if you so choose. Best of all, the catalog channels classic styles that you’ll love for your space.
Behold: we found some of the most modern, magazine cover-esque offerings fit for the outdoors at West Elm. Its best-selling Playa Outdoor Reversible Sectional, Lounge Chair & Coffee Table Set (starting at $319) allows you to purchase items a la carte (or, buy together). Plus, the solid eucalyptus and mahogany wood frame are magical.
We also love the Hargrove Round Dining Table & Porto Chairs Set (starting at $799) which seems like the perfect bundle for al fresco dining And, if you adore that ultra-modern look, you’ll love the Concrete Indoor/Outdoor Pedestal Round Dining Table ($599) that’s featured in a sought-after coastal aesthetic.
What it’s known for: Outer is a premier outdoor patio furniture online destination that’s apt for those looking for sustainably crafted, modular designs. Best of all, every Outer products comes fully backed with a warranty to weather years of use. It’s particularly great for its all-weather wicker furniture, namely.
Outer has high-end outdoor patio furniture that is contemporary yet modern — with a bit of a coastal flair.
Our top recommendations include the Aluminum Outdoor Armless Loveseat ($2,565), the Wicker Outdoor Armless Chair ($1,282) and the brand-new Teak & Aluminum Outdoor Dining Table & Six Directors’ Chairs ($6,030), the latter made of high-grade materials that will last a lifetime.
What it’s known for: Ledge Lounger is a one-stop shop for elevated poolside furniture and outdoor accessories to turn your backyard into a hotel resort-worthy space for gathering and hosting. Most pieces are multipurpose enough to go from in your pool to your yard — meaning you move it from one spot to another without having to invest in water-friendly furniture.
Each collection has its own warranty that ranges anywhere from 1-10 years.
Some of our recommendations include the Mainstay Bar Credenza ($3,899 to $4,099), outdoor sectionals for gatherings (starting at $499), the Echo Chaise ($2,489) for outdoor sunbathing sessions and the Outdoor Ping Pong Table ($3,649) to add an outdoor activity to your next summer BBQ.
What it’s known for: Wayfair is one of the most-shopped-at online home furniture destinations. Here, you’ll find sets for every budget and at a great value — from small patio furniture and umbrellas to outdoor bar furniture and pillows. Even better, the retailer often hosts sales year-round to get the biggest bang for your buck.
Per the commercials, Wayfair has “just what you need.” Speaking of, its endless selection of patio furniture hits that nail right on its head. This is the perfect time to buy from Wayfair, too, as the retailer is hosting a boatload of deals ahead of its two-day shopping extravaganza, Way Day, taking place on April 26 and 27.
For a resort-style backyard staple, snag the Wade Logan Harbin 5-Person Seating Group ($860). Or, opt for the Sand & Stable Lena Bar Cart ($122) if you’d like to serve fresh lemonade or tequila mixers by the pool.
Also, Wayfair is one of our favorite destinations for area rugs — both indoor and outdoor. Shop the Steelside Raya Chevron Rug ($87) or the Andover Mills Heartwood Geometric Rug ($76) for two premier choices.
What it’s known for: Walmart is universally known to carry budget-friendly finds, yet its selection of outdoor patio furniture doesn’t compromise quality. In fact, it’s one of our readers’ most-loved destinations to pick up a multi-person seating group for their backyard. You’ll love its bundles and traditional styles, especially.
Surprisingly, Walmart’s catalog of patio furniture is just as good as its rollbacks. We instantly fell in love with Vineego’s 7-Piece Wicker Set ($490) that’s one of the most affordable sectional-included bundles we’ve seen.
Also coming in hot is the Laussaint Home 3-Piece Bistro Set ($200) that’s perfect for quaint outdoor gatherings with your loved one. Plus, the brand’s Sandhill 7-Piece Outdoor Patio Sectional Set ($689) is even more affordable than the one mentioned above (and just as lovely in its ivory nature).
What it’s known for: If you’re all about the aesthetic and want to carve out a space of your home akin to “Better Homes & Gardens,” Frontgate is your best bet. It’s a luxury retailer that’s a surefire splurge, but you’ll instantly fall in love with its assortment of natural-looking pieces, contemporary charm and durable, resort-grade outdoor additions.
Known for its southern-inspired sets and seaters, Frontgate is a brand our audience particularly loves. From the Surrey Hill Sofa Set ($5,997) to the Baleares Daybed (starting at $2,999), the online retailer is a luxe investment that’ll turn heads (and tap into unmatched comfort).
What’s more, Frontgate has divine poolside chaises to lounge and lay, including the Balencia Bronze Chaise Lounges ($1,049). Its Isola Lounge Chair ($599) is one of our favorites.
What it’s known for: For affordable and simplistic outdoor patio furniture that’s sure to complete your backyard oasis, look no further than Target. Specifically, this retailer offers conversation sets, bistro and dining sets and an array of match-all, well-made pieces spanning from modern to farmhouse aesthetics.
Though we love taking out the red grocery carts (which are some of the smoothest ever, may we add) and taking a good peruse through Target, its patio furniture is something that won’t fit in your wheeler — and that’s why it’s great to order it online.
As the spot for Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia collection, we’re not at all surprised by the beautiful pieces Target has to offer. From the Southport 2-Pack Club Chairs ($450) to the Tropic Island Wide Hammock and Stand ($200), we can’t get enough of its almost bohemian styles.
We also have our eyes on Sunnydaze’s Large Tufted Victorian Hammock Chair Swing ($63) for a buy-as-many-as-you-need offering to enhance your poolside experience.
What it’s known for: QVC surely isn’t just for the TV — the online retailer has a fully stocked collection of outdoor patio furniture that’s ideal for any sized space. Notably, it’s a top spot for dining sets (though the brand has some sectional-style offerings on deck) and one-piece additions as well, like traditional Adirondack chairs and fire pits.
If you want unbeatable outdoor patio sets shipped to your door, look no further than QVC. The beloved retailer isn’t just for the TV, either; its variety of quality furniture and sets is some of the best we found.
Whether your interest lies in the splurge-worthy Crosley Bradenton 4-Piece Wicker Set ($2,264) or the Safavieh Yves Sun Lounger ($384), your backyard will be transformed into a backyard oasis soon enough.
We also have our eyes on the Northbeam Nantucket Rocking Chair ($228) and the Safavieh Moore 3-Piece Lounge Set ($228).
What it’s known for: Yardbird is a brand that takes the great outdoors seriously. Quite seriously in fact. The Minneapolis-based brand used primarily recycled plastic to construct its elegant, environmentally-friendly furniture.
The furniture arrives in less packaging than many of its luxury competitors and is primarily recyclable when you’re ready to phase it out (not anytime soon, we’re sure). In addition to the better-for-the-planet appeal, Yardbird’s outdoor furniture sets just look really, really good.
Nowhere is that more evident than the brand’s latest Ludlow Outdoor Wicker Furniture Collection (starting at $440). The all-weather, hand-woven wicker covers oversized, rust-proof aluminum frames with a modern, modular design. Finishing it all off are high-quality, generously stuffed Sunbrella fabric cushions.
What it’s known for: The Home Shopping Network — dubbed HSN for short — is a phenomenal made-to-order destination to create the outdoor patio setup of your dreams. We can’t stop staring at all the teak and vibrant hybrids characteristic featured in many of its sets. We find that HSN tends to have a wider selection of conversation sets, while QVC leans more into outdoor dining sets.
Specifically, we adore the Linon Jiles Outdoor 4-Piece Chat Seat with Seat Cushions ($910), along with the brand’s 3-Piece Teak Café Set ($310) which is situated for indoor and outdoor use.
If you’re keen on entertaining, you’ll be just as happy as we were when we noticed its Outdoor Adirondack Arm Rest Chair ($200), which comes in a stunning royal blue, a wine red and classic white for you to choose from (or, to mix-and-match for Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day alike!)
What it’s known for: The Home Depot isn’t just known for its appliances and tool sets. At this retailer, you’ll find a bunch of outdoor patio furniture that’s traditional, timeless and easy to assemble — mostly in the modern to contemporary style. That said, any selection you fancy is sure to match your space.
Not only is The Home Depot the grown-up toy store for tools and tractors but it’s also a wonderful place to pick up fairly priced patio furniture. Take the Hampton Bay Riverbrook 5-Piece Steel Outdoor Patio Dining Set ($499), which is ideal for entertaining.
Or, perhaps your taste taps more into Southern charm. Then, the Laurel Oaks Collection — with items ranging from $89 to $1,169 — is perfect for you; choose from this 8-ft. outdoor umbrella ($349) and the seven-piece black steel outdoor seating set ($649), for providing the ultimate at-home outdoor dining experience.
What it’s known for: Charming and superb for a greenery-flocked yard, Lowe’s vast selection of patio furniture isn’t just home-y but it won’t be hard on your wallet, either. The brand has a wide variety of wicker, aluminum and hybrid-metaled options for you to buy for some R&R. Plus, the pieces are well-crafted and cast a wide net of aesthetics.
Shop the Clihome Patio Conversation 4-Piece Set ($773) for a Hamptons-inspired entertainer that’s a beaut right now. Or, Best Selling Home’s Ottavio Outdoor Daybed ($664) is a pretty great buy to create a Havana from the safe haven of your backyard.
What’s more, Lowe’s is home to some of our other favorites, too, like the new Ovios Vultros Rattan Outdoor Sofa ($676) and the best-selling Style Selections Elliot Creek Rectangle Outdoor Dining Table ($255).
What it’s known for: Terrain is a phenomenal destination for chic, bohemian-inspired patio furniture, mostly for à la carte options like sectional sofas and standalone ottomans. What’s more, the brand taps into luxury without costing more than $3,000 per item.
As soon as we spotted direct-to-consumer brand, Terrain, we suddenly wanted to renovate our backyards. If you’re looking for traditional pieces with a bit more flair, then you’ll adore the brand’s Vista Slatted Teak Two Seat Sofa ($1,124) and Sonoma Woven Teak Armless Chair ($824), especilally.
What’s more, Terrain is a standout for quality furniture pieces, particularly those made of teak.
What it’s known for: If you’re super keen on rendering your outdoor space into a coastal-inspired safe haven where you can rest, relax and entertain in supreme comfort, look no further than Serena & Lily. Its outdoor shop is one of the internet’s hidden gems, offering luxe options — with an emphasis on lounging in style.
If the The Hamptons and Nantucket had a lovechild (rather, love children), they would have twin girls: Serena and Lily. Its bounty of options ranging from marshmallow-soft daybeds to preppy-inspired sofas is second to none, and will last you for years of enjoyment.
Aesthetically, we love the look of the brand’s Sausalito Dining Chair ($698) and Pacifica Sofa ($2,998). If. you’re looking for a brand that screams ‘extremely classy,’ this is it.
What it’s known for: Outdoor luxury meets custom, chic patio furniture with Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. If you want to take one set with you (basically to the grave), we recommend subscribing to the wealth of options and standalone furniture pieces this retailer has in store, boasting an ultra-modern, chic stature.
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is a premier destination that takes constructing an outdoor oasis to a level of its own. Though a splurge, you’ll be proud to flaunt these pieces, like the Bianca Outdoor Full Swivel Chair ($2,828) to the Sanibel Round Outdoor Dining Table ($2,941).
Keep in mind that Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams take about 14 to 16 weeks to ship to your door, but the wait will ultimately be worth it.
What it’s known for: Arhaus is known for simplistic designs encapsulated through its high-end, minimalist pieces. Notably, its charm lies in Western-inspired craftsmanship that well-suit your alfresco dinner or underneath-the-gazebo lounging. It’s a splurge worth making, much ado to its timelessness and appeal.
For gathering around your fire pit, shop the Bal Harbour Outdoor Teak Four-Piece Sectional ($9,848) or the Wyatt Outdoor Sofa ($3,399). The Ollie Outdoor Large Platform ($2,950) is also nice for plopping in the empty grounds of your backyard — especially for using your outdoor projector to watch films underneath the stars.
What it’s known for: Brooke & Lou is sure to provide a Victorian, traditional escape that you’ll want to spend all of your time in. Though the brand doesn’t have the widest selection, it has some quaint pieces that are perfect surrounding your poolside or small patio alike.
To complete your backyard, shop the Oasis Chair ($235) and the Charlie Square Coffee Table ($845). You’ll also appreciate its high-end appeal while sticking to its fair price point for most selections.
19. Lulu & Georgia
What it’s known for: If you love looking at photos of the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera, we’re placing bets that Lulu & Georgia is an outdoor patio furniture destination you’ll gleam over. Even better, some selections are both indoor and outdoor appropriate, especially fitting for smaller spaces and lovely to the eyes.
Lulu & Georgia is a brand we constantly tell people about IRL. From accent chairs to stools, you’ll adore its traditional, slim and well-made pieces that are just as exceptional as they are inviting.
We recommend adding the Ryann Indoor/Outdoor Sofa ($1,998) and the Peagan Indoor/Outdoor Bench ($1,798) to your online shopping cart to complete your backyard spread. Oh, and you certainly can’t pass up the Benno Fire Bowl ($3,998) to gather round and heat up some s’mores.
What it’s known for: One-of-a-kind, eclectic pieces are the name of the game for direct-to-consumer brand Goodee. Though its selection isn’t widespread, it has some fairly priced finds that are a step above your traditional locale. Plus, it’s one of the best spots to dress an urban patio.
Out of its selections, we deem the 1″ Reclaimed Chair ($330) worthy of a pick-me-up. It’s sleek, slim and comfortable to entertain your houseful of guests, and we love its moody color options.
Among all of Goodee’s SKUs, we appreciate its eye to different color palettes, offering you the ability to customize your space — and select a statement piece (or pieces), if you so choose.
What it’s known for: With slim designs and contemporary and modern character alike, Sundays Company has a unique collection of dining and seating options for your deck or patio that are reasonably priced, yet well-made. If you’re looking for match-all pieces that won’t break the bank — but still tether on the luxury side of things — this is your hot spot.
What we love most about Sundays Collection is its array of riveting pieces that all uphold a ‘cool, calm and collected’ vibe. Specifically, its Afternoon Sun Outdoor Lounge Chair ($590) looks like your nicest beach chair — but for your home. On the same hand, its Best of Me Outdoor Dining Chair ($350) is your finest folding chair, but better.
What it’s known for: As its name suggests, Modloft is a boutique outdoor patio furniture company that specializes in both seating and dining designs. Its wise blend of modern frames and plush cushions is enough to draw us to its selections, and we especially love its conscious curvature detailing and beautiful finish.
As far as sofas go, the Netta Sectional Sofa XL ($2,029) is one of the most striking options we’ve seen that accommodate a large group of people for your next backyard bash. Just as fabulous is its Clifton Lounge Chair ($799) that’s perfect for lovers of the all-black, modern aesthetic.
What it’s known for: Neighbor is a direct-to-consumer online furniture brand that’s dedicated to supplying you with modern, timeless and chic pieces that will withstand years of memory-making use. Its nod to wooden accents and plush cushions give it an appeal to virtually any aesthetic, and the ability to choose your color fabric for most pieces is a huge bonus.
For modern teak outdoor patio furniture, you can’t beat the brand’s Haven Sectional ($4,000). To match, its Haven Dining Chair 2-Piece Set ($950) works with any table you choose to mix and match it with.
We can’t stop glossing over its catalog of ready-to-order furniture pieces, so we recommend ordering stat to ensure it arrives before warmer temps arise.
What it’s known for: Anthropologie, for years, has been one of our most acclaimed online destinations for furniture, fashion pieces and home trinkets (seriously, our wishlist is never-ending). That said, it’s a worthwhile place to shop for outdoor patio furniture, especially for à la carte, unique items like hanging swings, ornate dining chairs and more.
Anthropologie’s home line, AnthroLiving, is one of our top destinations to shop for online patio furniture. Why? Its smorgasbord of options has us wanting even more, and while each piece is designed to make a statement, each option seamlessly blends into any outdoor space — for any aesthetic, too.
Worthy of spending your hard-earned coin on, the San Blas Rattan Hanging Bench ($699) is a true showstopper, along with the Business & Pleasure Co. The Hammock ($298), a brand we love for all things coastal and charming.
Our Top Brands Compared, At a Glance
| Brand | Aesthetic | Price | Shipping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Contemporary, modern, traditional | $$-$$$ | Two-day delivery with Amazon Prime |
| West Elm | Contemporary, modern, sleek | $$-$$$ | Standard three-day delivery |
| Outer | Resort-style, timeless, upscale | $$$-$$$$ | Three- to seven-day delivery |
| Ledger Lounger | Upscale, contemporary | $$$-$$$$ | Five-to-seven day delivery |
| Wayfair | Coastal, contemporary, modern | $$-$$$ | One- to three-week delivery |
| Walmart | Classic, cozy, traditional | $$-$$$ | Two-day delivery |
| Frontgate | Coastal, resort-style, retro | $$$-$$$$ | Three- to seven-day delivery |
| Target | Chic, farmhouse, modern | $$-$$$$ | Three- to five-day delivery |
| QVC | Beach-y, contemporary, traditional | $$-$$$ | Three- to five-day delivery |
| Yardbird | Coastal, modern, upscale | $$$-$$$$ | Two-week delivery |
| HSN | Contemporary, cottage-style, traditional | $$-$$$ | Three- to seven-day delivery |
| The Home Depot | Modern, sleek, traditional | $$-$$$ | Five- to 10-day delivery |
| Lowe’s | Contemporary, timeless, traditional | $$-$$$ | One- to seven-day delivery |
| Terrain | Boho, classic, timeless | $$-$$$$ | Five- to eight-day delivery |
| Serena & Lily | Chic, coastal, Tuscan | $$$-$$$$ | Two-week delivery |
| Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams | Charming, luxury, modern | $$$-$$$$ | 14- to 16-week delivery |
| Arhaus | Coastal, minimalist, sleek | $$$-$$$$ | Three- to 14-day delivery |
| Brooke & Lou | Inviting, traditional, Victorian | $$-$$$ | Seven- to 10-day delivery |
| Lulu & Georgia | Slim, traditional, Tuscan | $$$-$$$$ | 14- to 18-day delivery |
| Goodee | Colorful, eclectic, urban | $$-$$$ | Two- to six-day delivery |
| Sundays Company | Casual, minimalist, modern | $$-$$$ | Three-week delivery |
| Modloft | Modern, moody, wood-blended | $$-$$$ | Six-week delivery |
| Neighbor | Chic, timeless, warm | $$$-$$$$ | Seven-day delivery |
| Anthropologie | Boho, ornate, unique | $$-$$$ | Four- to eight-day delivery |
An FAQ on Outdoor Patio Furniture
Ahead, our team of design experts gave us the 411 on what to look for in quality outdoor patio furniture to match your aesthetic and suit your budget.
“Buy the best and cry once! Replacing outdoor furniture isn’t fun.”
Meg Lonergan, Houston-based interior designer
What to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor patio furniture, according to experts
According to Sarah Vaile, firm principal of Sarah Vaile Design and Chicago-based residential design expert, “the most important questions to ask are functionality, seasonality and, of course, aesthetics.”
Regarding functionality, you may ask, ‘how do you plan to use the space, primarily for entertaining or every night for the family dinner? As far as seasonality is concerned, ‘when do you plan to use the space?‘
“There are so many great heating options available now, whether a ceiling heater or fire source; spaces that might have been strictly summer can now be used for three or even four seasons,” Vaile adds. “For aesthetics, there are many different furniture styles depending on the home’s architectural style and location whether iron, wicker or teak to name a few.”
Of course, you’ll also want to keep comfort in mind. “Your outdoor patio area wants to be inviting,” Lonergan adds. “Think deep seats, thick cushions, and quality; materials that are made to last, covers, durable fabrics.”
How to design an outdoor patio furniture when working with a blank slate, per experts
Picasso had a blank canvas at some point, and he now has decades-renowned masterpieces. So is the case with your backyard oasis as you build out your furniture landscape step-by-step.
“I design outdoor spaces the same way I do their indoor counterparts,” Vaille explains. “Will it serve as the outdoor family room or dining room? Then I start with a sofa and coffee table — or dining table and chairs — and style from there.”
Vaille loves incorporating fire sources too, whether through a traditional fireplace, fire table or fire pit. “They create a gathering place and further extend the seasonality of the space,” she adds.
Don’t forget a patio umbrella, either. “You gotta protect that skin care regime!” Lonergan notes. “If all you have is a single chair and an umbrella, it works.”
How to design your space based on your backyard, according to experts
Whether you’re working with a smaller yard or acres of land, ensuring you’re optimizing your space to the best of your ability is key. Ahead, Lonergan and Vaille share what to prioritize buying for your particular space:
Small Backyard
“Small spaces are some of my favorite to design,” Vaille says. “I love to dive into the intimacy of a small space and create sort of a secret enclosed garden.”
Particularly, you’ll want to shop for an umbrella and lightweight, petite chairs to accentuate your small square footage, per Lonergan.
Large Backyard
For larger spaces, chaise lounges, sofas and long dining tables are the way to go, according to Lonergan.
“The key in large backyards is to create separate zones that are still cozy and inviting,” Vaille shares. “Pergolas, fire sources, low-branching trees and potted plants are our favorite ways to create separate zones within a large yard.”
Poolside
Who doesn’t love a poolside chaise? “My dermatologist would equally want umbrellas between every other chair,” Vaille suggests. “I like to channel boutique resorts in our poolside decorating.”
Aside from a good patio umbrella, Lonergan also recommends a top-tier pool float — both for soaking up the sun’s rays and serving as an Instagram-worthy decor element.
Porch / Balcony
“A bistro table and chairs are always the first pieces I start with on a balcony,” Vaille shares. “If space allows, I love a sectional that can be sized to exactly fit a corner to create a lounging nook. You would surprised how little space you need to squeeze one in.”
More, look for plants and a garden stool, per Lonergan. “A pair of garden stools can act as a chair and a table to hold an ash tray, if desired.”
What materials are outdoor patio furniture pieces typically made from?
You may spot a wicker-style set that you can’t stop glossing over. Or, you have practicality at top of mind and are concerned about purchasing a weather-resistant or storm-grade set.
To help you best understand the differences among the thousands of outdoor patio pieces on the market, we turned to Meridith Baer, founder of one of the nation’s most premier home staging companies with more than 25 years of experience, to describe some of the most popular materials:
- Wood: Wood is beautiful and gives a comfortable feeling to outdoor spaces, but needs to be refinished every few years.
- Teak: Teak is long-lasting, naturally weather-resistant and easy to maintain. In time, it becomes a beautiful silvery color. However, it’s expensive and can warp and require maintenance.
- Acacia: Acacia is long-lasting, weathers nicely, is sustainable and typically more affordable than teak.
- Wicker & Rattan: These materials are lightweight and durable, easy to move around but expensive, difficult to clean and can blow away and fall during extreme weather.
- Wrought Iron: Wrought iron is sturdy and long-lasting but needs protection from rust. It can be expensive and because it’s heavy, it’s hard to move around and cushions are required.
- Aluminum & Powder-Coated Steel: These materials are modern-looking and more affordable than wood and iron but blow away, fade and may be hard to clean.
“Most styles are derived from great outdoor and coastal destinations,” Vaille adds. “Whether it’s Mediterranean iron, lakeside wicker, East Coast fretwork or mountain Adirondack, there are plenty of different aesthetics to choose from that are traditionally a bit territorial in nature.”
When is the best time to buy outdoor patio furniture?
While investing in a new outdoor patio furniture set is a personal decision based on when you’re going to make the most use of it, it’s important to take full advantage of sales (like Way Day coming up). New York Post Shopping consistently sees deals on Amazon and elsewhere for patio sets year-round, but we decide to consult our team of design experts to source their timing recommendations.
Baer recommends buying some new pieces “at the end of the warm season when it is on sale.” Similarly, Lonergan advises adding outdoor patio furniture “six months before you’re going to want to use it.”
As for Vaille’s design firm, they typically start thinking about outdoor spaces right after the New Year. “That first great weather weekend in the spring always pops up sooner than you’d think!” she adds.
What’s the best fabric for outdoor patio furniture?
“Coated polyester, acrylic and olefin [are the best fabrics] because they wear better than natural fibers and are naturally resistant to moisture, mold and mildew,” Baer explains.”Sunbrella-type fabrics, like polypropylene, which dries faster and is UV and stain-resistant, is also good.”
It’s important to note that durable outdoor fabric should be easy to clean with soap and water. “The color should be baked into the yarn to ensure that it stays vibrant,” she adds.
Vaille’s design firm collectively enjoys the Perennials outdoor textile line. “They have really mastered solution-dyed acrylics that feel like indoor linens and cottons yet are resistant to sun-fading, mildew and mold — and the best part: bleach-cleanable,” she says.
How to care for outdoor patio furniture, per experts
When buying outdoor patio furniture, you want to ensure you properly maintain it. According to Vaille, you should always use a furniture cover to help your furniture stay good-as-new for longer. “In the winter, of course, bring your cushions inside,” she adds.
Wonderfully, the brand Outer offers patio furniture covers that are thoughtfully made (and, made to last).
Meet the Experts
- Meridith Baer: Founder of renowned home staging companies with 25+ years of experience
- Meg Lonergan: Houston-based interior designer
- Sarah Vaile: Firm principal of Sarah Vaile Design and Chicago-based residential design expert
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