The journey to a style-forward outdoor space involves, in part, the careful curation of furniture pieces and decor, and, crucially, how these are styled together. You need to take into account the surroundings, how you plan on using the space, and how you want it to feel. And in 2026, that feeling is increasingly towards outdoor spaces that feel like a natural extension of our interiors — designed the same way you would a room inside the home. But 'style-forward' does not have to mean expensive. And a brand that knows how to do that well? IKEA.

There's a reason it's included in our list of the best garden furniture brands. Synonymous with versatility and practicality, the Scandinavian design brand is also very capable of creating designer-look pieces at pleasantly affordable price points. And its outdoor furniture collection is no exception. As Miaad Latoof, one of the stylists for Design Lab by Livingetc, explains, "Growing up in Scandinavia, I learnt to appreciate the simplicity of form because I was surrounded by it, and IKEA was definitely part of that visual influence. I have always seen the brand as practical, accessible, and incredibly adaptable, which is why so many of its pieces work across different styles. With its garden furniture, I think IKEA does that clean Scandinavian simplicity really well."

Needless to say, I spend an inordinate amount of time checking IKEA's latest offerings, and with the onset of better weather, that includes a daily check of its outdoor furniture range. Here, I've rounded up what I think are twelve of the best IKEA products for your outdoor space that not only deliver big points on style but are kind to your wallet, too. From sofas to storage, consider this your one-stop shop for IKEA garden furniture for 2026.

Chairs

Tables

Sofas

Storage

Styling IKEA Garden Furniture

The key to making IKEA outdoor furniture look design-forward comes down to the styling. As Design Lab by Livingetc stylist, Iokasti Sotirakopoulou explains, "What I love about IKEA's garden furniture is how easy it is to build a beautiful outdoor space around.

"The designs are often simple and versatile, which means they can adapt to so many different aesthetics. I love the idea of starting with a Scandinavian-inspired foundation from IKEA and then layering in handmade ceramics, colorful cushions, and decorative accessories to make the space feel more personal and curated."

Mixing in natural elements and personal pieces will not only add character to your space but will also organically make it feel more lived-in and storied, which is a key outdoor furniture trend for 2026.

"I also think the brand has become much stronger at introducing trend-led colors and finishes, making it easier to create a space that feels current without committing to a huge investment," says Iokasti. "It also offers pieces that allow you to experiment, layer, and evolve your outdoor setup over time. I believe the brand is approachable, flexible, and encourages people to have fun with their outdoor spaces."

Our interiors editor, Emma Breislin, agrees. "In the right context, and styled well, IKEA's outdoor furniture range can look extremely expensive — without, of course, actually being so."

What draws us to Scandinavian design is not just that pared-back, effortlessly chic aesthetic, but the way that functionality sits at its core, which is exactly what makes it so ideal for garden furniture, too. As Miaad says, IKEA "proves that practical outdoor furniture can still have real design appeal."

If you want to take IKEA's practicality indoors, these 12 IKEA kitchen storage buys will double, if not triple, your storage space.

And for more design ideas for your home and garden, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter, and all the latest will be delivered directly to your inbox.

The season of al fresco dining and lounging is upon us. While summer defrosts the inner hostess in all of us, and we look forward to entertaining friends and family in various iterations of brunches and garden drinks, if you have a tiny outdoor space, it can feel impossible to extend an invitation.

While they can pose some challenges, the great thing about small spaces is that they only take a few clever pieces to foster an intimate and stylish sanctuary — and it doesn't have to break the bank, either. The best garden furniture isn't the most expensive; it's the styles that work best for your space and look good while doing it.

And that's why Habitat's Pula Folding Metal Garden Side Table is one of those small-space heroes you need to have on your radar — it's foldable, durable, and incredibly affordable at just £20. It also has a near-perfect rating, so I suspect it won't be long before it sells out, either.

This gorgeous green colorway, taken from the earth's natural palette, plays into a wider trend in outdoor furniture in 2026. As people lean into intuitive design, this powdery shade makes your outdoor space feel light, airy and natural.

Habitat's folding garden side table has near-perfect reviews from nearly 70 customers, many of whom rave about this sage color. Reviews mention how convenient the table is with its lightweight, foldable design, and everyone agrees that this Habitat buy is great value for money. One praises: “Clean, simple design, well made, compliments my deck very well,” and another notes it is “great for drinks in the garden”.

If the table tempts you but you aren’t sold on the color, Habitat also stocks it in a fiery orange and a sleek black. Or, if you like the idea of a side table that can transform your small outdoor space but prefer a different style, I’ve selected six alternatives across a range of styles and price points.

If these buys are any indication, you should never underestimate the power of hard-working furniture pieces. One table may be all you need to transform your outdoor space into a stylish haven, and you, the vivacious hostess.

While the weather continues to be fickle, each moment outdoors and in the sun should be taken and treasured. And if gray skies persist and you feel it is not sunny enough to host, you can always breathe some life back into your outdoor space with a few of our favorite summertime buys for your garden, which promise to brighten and adorn.

For more design ideas, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Finding outdoor furniture for a small space usually means compromising. The problem is often that the set is stylish but impractical, or it's functional but so bulky that it takes up the entire patio. Habitat’s Samoa Eucalyptus Patio Set manages to avoid both problems. While the eucalyptus wood itself is chunky, the space-saving design neatly tucks both benches underneath the table when not in use.

The set has become incredibly popular among shoppers looking for garden furniture that feels both elevated and practical for smaller spaces. With a glowing 4.9/5 star rating, reviewers praise its style, quality, compact footprint, and how easy it is to put together, and find it "actually comfortable".

This set is so popular that it has already sold out before, and with a 20% off sale on right now, I'd say it's set to sell out again very soon...

One thing that repeatedly comes up in the customer reviews is how the set is "actually comfortable". So much so that some didn't bother with buying cushions for the set either. Other reviewers praised the overall sturdiness, luxurious quality, and ease of assembly.

It can be hard to come by outdoor furniture that balances aesthetics, practicality and durability at an affordable price point, particularly when it's made from solid wood, but Habitat's Samoa Patio Set ticks all the boxes. The fact that it's currently discounted by 20% makes it feel particularly good value for anyone upgrading a small garden ahead of summer.

Alternative Space-Saving Patio Sets

The Habitat Eucalyptus patio set is compact without looking cramped and contemporary whilst being completely timeless. For more ideas to bring style to your outdoor space this summer, the latest outdoor furniture trends are full of inspiration and designer tips for a 2026-approved garden.

And for more design ideas, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter, and you'll never miss a thing.

When you think of Pottery Barn, you don't immediately think of outdoor furniture. Your mind probably jumps more so to living room sofas and chairs; bedroom curtains and drapes; and the occasional piece of dining decor. And that's entirely fair. I have shopped at Pottery Barn for all of those items and can attest to their quality, style, and price point.

But Pottery Barn — one of a few brands under the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. umbrella — is also one of the best brands for garden furniture, too. Indeed, even if you wouldn't immediately think so, this classic retailer knows how to craft a rain-resistant rug, a rust-proof sofa frame, and a piece of garden decor so fun and funky you almost forget it came from a store with one foot in the world of New England prep. To that end, their collection also has a little something for everyone. If you're partial to simple, modern finishes — like aluminum, metal, and wavy silhouettes — there is plenty to choose from. But if you're in more of a coastal grandma era of life, trust that you'll have your pick of the litter, as well.

Below, I took a peek at the entire outdoor collection and highlighted 12 pieces I believe are worth shopping for style, practicality, and overall vibe. Let's jump in.

Sofas

Chairs and Chaises

Tables

Decor

FAQs

Is Pottery Barn Outdoor Furniture Good Quality?

Although I'd love you to take my word for it, I understand if you're still not convinced that Pottery Barn is a good place to shop for outdoor pieces. That's why I asked the experts.

"In my experience, Pottery Barn outdoor furniture delivers strong, reliable quality — especially for homeowners looking for pieces that balance durability with a refined aesthetic," Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director at Kerrie Kelly Studio, tells me.

"I have several pieces in my own home that have held up beautifully year-round for multiple seasons, including chaises, dining chairs, and a double chaise in their Torrey Wicker collection. The construction feels thoughtful and substantial, and when paired with their covers, the longevity is even more impressive."

Better yet, "it’s also dependable in terms of consistency. What you see is what you get, which is important when specifying for clients who want both performance and polish," Kerrie continues.

"It may not be the most bespoke option on the market, but it’s a very strong choice for approachable luxury that performs well over time."

What Style is Pottery Barn Outdoor Furniture?

Pottery Barn has a little of everything, though it is "well suited to a few key styles: California chic, coastal, traditional, transitional, and organic modern," explains Amy Konarzycki, owner and principal designer at Studio AK.

"You can order the base pieces in neutral shades and add accent pieces — like toss cushions — in your preferred color palette. The clean-lined pieces go well with transitional and modern spaces, whereas the pieces with curved silhouettes lean more traditional."

Adds Judith-Chandler Quintreel, founder of Judith-Chandler Interiors: "You'll see a lot of weathered teak, thick woven wicker, and oversized silhouettes that are built to feel cozy and inviting instead of formal."

Doing some shopping for inside the house, too? Pottery Barn also has you covered there. Why not peruse our selection of Pottery Barn curtains and Pottery Barn mirrors while you're at it?

And for more style advice and ideas for your home and garden, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter, and all the latest will land directly in your inbox.

We're still a few weeks out from the official start of spring, but that hasn't stopped us from dreaming about sunny days spent lying out in our garden. Nor, for that matter, has it stopped us from curating a pretty hefty basket of outdoor furniture.

I don't need any rhyme or reason to begin my summertime garden prep, but I do often find myself wondering when exactly is the optimal time to start buying all the best garden furniture I've been eyeing. Buy too soon, and they'll spend months under wraps, getting soggy in the never-ending winter rain, but wait too long, and suddenly the summer has passed you by before they even arrive at your home.

So, as I often do, I turned to the experts for their best advice. And, as it turns out, there is a golden window for when to buy your outdoor furniture — and it's sooner than you think. This is what they had to say.

When Is The Best Time to Shop for Outdoor Furniture?

When it comes to placing an order for your garden, the experts recommend getting it in by early spring. There are a few factors that go into this answer, though. Firstly, the weather. In the UK at least, the first few weeks of spring are some of the wettest of the whole year, putting a serious dampener on our summer dreams. But this can actually play in your favor, suggests Chloe Barrows, interior expert at Laura James.

"The rain deters people from investing in garden furniture, so you truly do get the pick of new collections and high-quality products in on-trend styles," Chloe explains. Wait until the sun is out in full force, and you'll find that many of the trendiest outdoor sofas are already fresh out of stock. Get in there early, though, while the spring showers are still at large, and you'll have no problem finding your wish-list pieces.

And, not only is it more likely to be in stock, but you'll also have a better chance at scoring a good deal in these earlier weeks. "Some retailers may start to put up prices as the weather becomes warmer and interest in garden furniture peaks, so March to April is the best time to get great quality products at fair prices," says Chloe.

"This year, people seem to be planning ahead — we’ve seen steady sales of larger outdoor sets since the new season launched at the end of January, which proves how integral an outdoor living and entertaining area has become, even for UK homes," explains Danielle Le Vaillant, from Cox & Cox. "It makes sense, really, to take the opportunity to have the furniture all ready to use and actually enjoy over the long bank holiday."

If you're focused less on immediacy and more on scoring the best deal possible, it's likely you'll be recommended to hold off and wait until the end of summer, when items begin to enter the sales. However, "This is also usually the worst time to buy in terms of quality pieces," according to Chloe. "You’re often left with products on sale that no one wants because they’re out of style or have had high returns. Because of this, waiting until the end of summer to buy isn’t a great idea if you’re looking for a garden furniture piece that will stand the test of time and be a great investment."

What to Look Out For This Year

Knowing that the prime shopping time is fast approaching, now is the time to get fully acquainted with all the hottest outdoor furniture trends to look out for on your search.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, much of what we're noticing in outdoor furniture this year is heavily inspired by interior design trends, following their lead in terms of shapes, colors, and even materials.

"One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen so far is the rise of sculptural furniture, especially curved sofas and rounded coffee tables that soften the harsh right angles of fences and patios," says Chloe. While these designs have become ubiquitous with elegant, modern living rooms, they work just as well in our outdoor spaces, too. "These pieces instantly make the garden feel more calming, creating that soft cocooning effect where you can truly switch off and really enjoy the outdoors," Chloe adds.

This rise in super-comfortable, elegant designs that feel more similar to your luxurious living room furniture than they do the wooden deck chairs of the past is also a symptom of one of the major garden trends this year — the outdoor living room.

Although this idea has been around well before 2026, Danielle says, "The outdoor living room trend has been growing year on year, and this year we are seeing some fully upholstered modular seating that really takes the concept to the next level."

Continuing from that desire for true indoor-outdoor living, Danielle suggests we can also expect to see a rise in elegant outdoor textiles, designed to offer "a more tactile lounging experience."

When it comes to color and materials, though, there seem to be two diverging pathways emerging. On the one hand, Chloe says, "We’re seeing a shift towards quiet luxury, with people choosing warm off-whites like Pantone’s cloud dancer or taupes as these create a great calm base to work from and build on." Warm neutrals and soft, natural materials are the key to this style, with plenty of brushed linens and earthy colors.

However, at the other end of the spectrum, we're seeing a greater interest in creating bolder, more vibrant designs in our garden. For this trend, prints are central, and the more the better. As Chloe notes, "There’s also a growing desire for pattern drenching, with stripes and florals being layered together. This look is less about matching and more about curating a space that feels full of character. It’s a slightly newer look from the neutral gardens we’ve seen in recent years, but it’s great for creatives who love bold shapes and colors."

This is a trend Danielle has observed, too: "Vibrant colors are also injecting fresh energy into our outdoor collections. Cushions play a part in this again, with fresh ginghams, stripes, and botanical prints in all shades of terracotta, lime, mint, jade, blue, and pink, which are perfect for transforming the look of the more neutral gray and stone shades that predominate amongst the cushions that are part of outdoor sets."

Tips for Outdoor Furniture Shopping

Beyond the trends and aesthetics of your modern garden, there are some other things you should look out for when investing in your outdoor setup.

First things first, search with longevity in mind. As Danielle says, "You should be looking for pieces that have been designed with years, not just seasons, in mind." Finding the outdoor furniture that will last the longest largely comes down to choosing the strongest materials. "Choose materials that will complement your outdoor space and reflect your overall style while also being comfortable. The best outdoor furniture will deliver comfort, durability, and style."

Think about how the material of your furniture will react to extreme weather conditions. For example, "I would avoid choosing furniture made from low-grade plastics as these often crack in the frost or warp in the heat," explains Chloe. "If you love that woven look, stick to high-quality materials like rattan, acacia wood, or even terrazzo and concrete as they’re not only stylish, but they’re built to last."

These pieces may cost more upfront, but in the long run, they'll be the more cost-effective choice. "Garden furniture is an investment, so look for designs that you will still love in five years, not just this summer," says Danielle. "If a new trend catches your eye, trial the effect with niche pieces such as cushions in a new color or smaller outdoor side tables in a bold shade."

Some of Our Favorite Pieces to Shop

Now that you know the right time to buy your outdoor furniture, you might as well familiarize yourself with these other rules for buying outdoor furniture that our experts swear by.

For more design ideas and advice for your garden and home, sign up to our newsletter, and they'll land straight in your inbox.

There's no point in denying it, summer feels like it's over already. But I've decided that this year, I'm not letting the arrival of autumn put an end to my fun. That's right, my garden is not closed for business just yet, and I've found just the buy to help me along in this pursuit.

If there's one thing I love, it's hosting. And, to me, there is no better gathering than a dinner party taken al fresco. There's just something special about treating your friends to a home-cooked meal while surrounded by nature, with lights twinkling above your head and barbecue smoke filling your nose.

But while that's all well and good on a balmy July evening, come September, some extra measures become a necessity. Because while chirping birds make a great soundtrack for dinner, chattering teeth don't. So, an outdoor heater will be your best friend, and this Plush Electric Heater Tabletop from Kettler just so happens to be the coolest I've seen yet.

Fancy a Few Alternatives?

Now that you've found the perfect outdoor heating table lamp, all you need is the perfect outdoor dining set to pair it with.

The first leaves are beginning to fall in London, and that means long winter nights are on their way. But to enjoy the splendor of garden soirees once the sun starts setting earlier, investing in good lighting is essential. As it turns out, you don't need to break the bank; all you need to achieve a dazzling patio is a parasol and a chic set of outdoor umbrella lights.

Yes, string lights and hanging lanterns look fabulous, but they aren't always feasible without a wall or post to attach to. Not to mention, outdoor lighting needs to be close enough to seating arrangements so that you can easily dine or mingle. Enter outdoor umbrella lights. These clever garden lighting ideas expertly combine form and function, meaning you can light your outdoor living space without the hassle of complex hanging.

Don't waste precious space on a table lamp; incorporate outdoor umbrella lights reminiscent of shining stars and sparkling chandeliers. Below are six ways to shop this design discovery, from the best garden lighting brands.

Don't let your garden just be something to enjoy when the sun's out, clever patio lighting ideas (and a throw blanket or two) will make your outdoor space something to enjoy year-round.

As someone who now looks at everything under the lens of design (call it a consequence of the job), the biggest buzzkill at an al fresco party is a poorly planned seating arrangement.

You can have the most beautiful pieces from the best garden furniture brands, and if you set it up without a care, you're left with a forced, cliquish social setting that will bear witness to contextually awkward conversations and early farewells.

Not to worry, though. Some intentional planning beforehand is all you need to facilitate fun conversations in a stage that's now set up for free-flowing social chit chat. And here's how.

1. Stay Away From Linear Seating

"When arranging outdoor seating, I tend to stay away from straight lines," says Henry Stoll, outdoor design expert of Enduria Structures. "There’s something about lined-up setups that resembles waiting rooms and offices."

On top of that, he tells me that linear seating discourages people from facing each other. And I can say for sure that every time I've been at a garden party with long, straight seating, I end up leaving with a crick in my neck and a touch of social exhaustion.

"The best setup for outdoor seating almost always falls in circular or semi-circular arrangements," he adds. "That’s where conversation flows since people naturally lean in, make eye contact, and stay longer."

Classic garden tables with chairs are great for a small get-together, but a longer guest list calls for a dismantled, round seating plan for easy cross communication.

2. Space Your Seating with Intention

Another aspect of garden furniture arrangement that's often overlooked is spacing. "Crowding furniture together makes people physically tense and awkward since it limits free movement," says Henry.

"Leaving generous gaps between the furniture pieces makes movement feel unforced. If you think about it, free movement is at the core of a good conversation. You gesture, lean, and occasionally stand up to move around."

And packing furniture in tightly is the worst thing you can do when hosting a garden party. Instead, be generous with spacing, but not so much so that your guests have to yell across the backyard. It's all about balance.

3. Introduce a Centered Anchor

According to Henry, the main cornerstone of a successfully arranged garden furniture plan is an anchoring centerpiece. Similar to indoor furniture placement rules, it's always important to pay attention to your focal point.

"It could be anything from a cozy fireplace, a coffee table with snacks, or just a beautiful ornamental outdoor rug," he says. "All of these furnishings send a signal that you want your guests to stay by bringing comfort to the setting."

My vote goes to a stylish fire pit, but whatever you pick, just be sure to keep it chic and avoid tacky outdoor furniture traps along the way.

4. Cherrypick Your Seating Based on the Vibe

When it comes to dressing your garden for entertainment, it's not just about how you arrange your furniture but the type of furnishings you're organizing, too. "Chairs can facilitate different moods," says Henry.

"For alert and present interactions, upright chairs usually work best, while for a more relaxed conversation, low, cushy, and slouchy seating helps unwind. You can bundle different seating areas to create different energy zones."

Outdoor sling chairs are my current favorite style. However, the trendy Habitat rattan-style garden chair is another gorgeous choice that's perfect for when you're having some close friends over for a lounging debrief.

5. Offer Shelter for Comfort

Henry tells me that comfort comes not just from seating, but in some cases from shelter too. "Depending on your location, you might want to arrange your furniture in a place that has shade, cover, or protection from wind and rain," he advises.

"And finally, having something to focus on for those few quiet moments in between conversations keeps things cozy. Positioning furniture to face your garden, a sculpture, or the setting sun gives people a natural anchor to lay eyes on."

Or, you can do what the experts do and place your garden lounge under a tree. This will feel natural and nice, plus you'll have the cozy ambiance of dappled light setting the mood, too.

Moving on to things you should not do, there are some garden designs that don't work in the UK's climate. So, that's one last thing standing in the way of you and a sparkling garden brunch. But avoid those styling mistakes, and you'll be well on your way to a time to remember.

There’s a charm to Riviera resorts that leaves us daydreaming about them long after holiday is over. Yes, the landscape admittedly has a lot to do with it, but the chic striped parasols that line the beaches are essential to the aesthetic. If your dreams of a holiday-style backyard oasis are feeling a little lackluster so far, for just £25, I may have just found the perfect solution.

I’ve been eyeing the Business & Pleasure Co. outdoor umbrella from Anthropologie for a while now, but justifying the price tag on a seasonal piece is easier said than done. However, I spotted these green and white striped parasols on Habitat for a fraction of the price, and it’s like my calls for the best garden parasols have been answered.

This parasol brings a stylish refuge to escape the sun, or simply a playful place to sip refreshments or add a bit of character to a garden dinner party. We may not all be able to jet off to a sunny beach all season, however, securing pieces from the best garden furniture brands is a surprisingly effective way to achieve that holiday state of mind.

Maybe it's the unprecedented revival of boho garden decor, or perhaps it's the desire to come home to a little slice of paradise, but whatever the cause, a striped patio umbrella adorned with a fringe trim is just what the doctor ordered this summer.

Being blessed with a garden that has plenty of sun is a blessing indeed, but it means you have to consider all the shade ideas for your patio. A sunburn is not the part of the holiday we are trying to bring home here.

That's why I've extended my research into striped outdoor umbrellas even further. Below are three more fabulous umbrella options so you can secure the perfect patio decor for hosting all of the most stylish soirees this season.

When a key chain isn’t enough, introducing the resort-core trend into your outdoor space brings a little slice of holiday paradise back home.

A chic parasol is just the beginning, there is plenty of decor to elevate your outdoor area — and lucky we’ve got you covered there too.

Having a sunny garden is like holding the golden ticket to a glorious outdoor retreat. However, too much sun? Well, that's when lounging in the backyard can quickly become uncomfortable. So, with summer arriving in full force, how do you ensure you are choosing garden furniture that promotes comfort and coolness?

If the heatwave has made your enjoying sunny days in the garden more short-lived than anticipated, reflective garden decor could be your next best investment. Your outdoor decor is just as important as your garden furniture, and when it comes to the heat, outdoor living expert and founder of Backyard Oasis, Andy Wu, explains, "Reflective garden decor is a sun bouncer — it keeps hot rays at bay. Light-colored materials, such as mirrors, reflective metal, or white-painted surfaces, don't trap heat but reflect it."

Just like our dark clothes get tucked away post-winter (no one wants to work on a hot day in a black T-shirt), dark outdoor decor and cushions are at the top of the 'furniture to avoid in your south-facing garden' list. Instead, I've asked outdoor living experts to explain the benefits of infusing your outdoor space with reflective garden decor, especially amid a heatwave.

So, why is reflective decor best for a hot space? And what kinds of pieces should you look for? Outdoor living expert and head of photography at outdoor furniture company, Cox and Cox, Danielle Le Vaillant, explains, "Darker, heavier items like stone and brick walls can intensify the heat, especially in small spaces." While mirrors, glass, and water reflect the green foliage from borders or trees across these blank spaces, cooling the scene down.

Andy Wu says, "I've actually measured temperature reductions of up to 5 degrees Celsius in spaces outfitted with reflective gear."

The good news is, there are options galore when it comes to reflective garden decor. Mirrors, water features, and light-colored fabrics are the big three, but there are also more subtle or inventive ways to combat the issue of too much heat. It's all about how creative you are willing to get; below are a few types of reflective garden decor to get your ideas started.

Mirrors and Mirrored Surfaces

Danielle starts off her recommendations by advocating for the tried-and-true outdoor mirror idea — it's the top way to add both intrigue and functionality to a heatwave prone space. "We love the way the tactical placement of an outdoor mirror can make your outdoor space feel both more spacious and more secluded at the same time," says Danielle.

Danielle explains, "Reflected greenery, from around the garden, will deepen the field of vision and increase the sense of space," whilst also blurring boundaries and making the neighbors feel that little bit further away.

Like indoors, outdoor mirrors are available in many styles from contemporary crittal-style panes to gothic arch designs, which can bring some real personality to even the smallest patio or terrace.

Try introducing a mirror in your pergola or in an indoor-outdoor space to help create an outdoor lounge-style setting. "This will also reduce any sense of gloom in the later months of the year, prolonging your keenness to stay outdoors," explains Danielle.

As for what size to go for, Andy says, "It’s simple science: Things with bigger surface areas will have the most significant impact in terms of reducing heat." You'll find the best results with larger pieces like a reflective coffee table or mirrored screen.

Water Features

Capitalizing on the reflective quality of water is another way to lower the temperature. "Tuck a water feature where you can; the gentle sound of moving water will calm everything down," advises Danielle.

Not to mention, water gardens result in an incredibly refined outdoor space. These kinds of pieces will make a statement and double as eye candy.

Light-Colored Fabrics

This one may seem obvious, but light colored upholstery is an extremely effective way to make your backyard feel cooler in summer. Just as you would wear lighter color clothing on holiday, choose furniture in paler tones that will reflect the heat back.

For instance, patio umbrellas in lighter tones, like cream or soft pink, will promote a more serene feel during a heat wave. There are plenty of colors to choose from, just make sure to be aware of what outdoor furniture colors to avoid.

Shiny or Glossy Decor Items

If you prefer something more subtle, consider incorporating smaller decorative items like reflective planters, shiny garden sculptures, or furniture with a little glimmer.

They may not have as intense an effect on temperature reduction (Andy warns, "They're usually more about adding ambiance"); however, they will still keep the sunlight moving rather than staying stagnant.

Or, if you want something a bit more out there, Andy recommends reflective mulch. "Yeah, it's a thing, and it reflects light like a pro. I personally enjoy mixing large and small pieces, such as a shiny dining table with mirrored spheres."

As you begin to build a garden that's ready to withstand the next heatwave, it's important to note that glare can be an issue with reflective garden decor. "A misplaced mirror will turn your backyard into a light show," says Andy.

The key is to position shiny objects away from the seating area and keep the design style of your garden at the forefront of your plans. A rustic garden won't mesh with a futuristic chrome planter. For a more streamlined look, try vintage mirrors in cottage gardens and weathered metal pieces where it makes less sense to have anything too modern.

Andy shares, "I worked with a family last summer whose yard had become a heat trap. We installed a large mirrored wall that was a complete game-changer. The temperature noticeably dropped while also making their garden feel more spacious."

Now that you have your outside space covered for the heat, here are our hacks to make entertaining in your garden more comfortable in the heat.

In the world of outdoor furniture, there has long been one clear winner. One material that has consistently come out on top, beloved and celebrated through the years. That material is, of course, teak.

This luxurious hardwood has earned a reputation as 'the king of woods', the best wood for outdoor furniture, favored by many luxury brands and garden experts alike. It is, however, typically accompanied by a steep price tag, often significantly higher than what you'd pay for other, similar woods, like acacia.

This inevitably leads to more questions about the material, about its nature, whether it's worth the high costs, what makes it different from other woods, and several other queries. After all, it's only natural to want to know a bit more before handing over your cash.

Thankfully, our experts were more than happy to share their wisdom about this lauded wood, and we don't want to give anything away, but you may just be tempted to redo your whole back garden setup once you're done reading. Don't say we didn't warn you.

What Is Teak Wood?

Before we dive into the many uses of teak wood and get down to whether or not it's the right material for your garden furniture, let's start with the basics — what is teak, and where does it come from?

Hailing from South and Southeast Asia, this material is sourced from the Tectona grandis tree, most commonly found across India and Thailand. This deciduous tree is known to grow up to 50 metres and live for over 100 years. They are considered one of the fastest-growing hardwood species, growing an impressive half-inch each day.

As a notably close-grained wood species, teak is considerably better equipped for exposure to water and is generally more durable than other, similar types of wood. Not only does its close-grained nature allow for heightened water resistance, but the high concentration of oils and minerals also means teak is unlikely to rot or warp, even after constant exposure to the elements. This is why, throughout history, teak was a favored material for the construction of boats.

Why Is Teak Good for Outdoors?

So, we know that teak has been favored throughout history for its strength and durability, but does this translate into a propensity for outdoor furniture?

"Absolutely," answers Laura Cranston, from luxury outdoor furniture brand, Nth Degree. "Teak is one of the most premium and time-honored choices for outdoor furniture," she continues, "Its naturally high oil content and dense grain make it exceptionally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects — qualities that allow it to withstand the elements beautifully with minimal upkeep."

With teak, you're naturally granted the qualities you'd have to pay to achieve with other, less desirable woods. There's no need to apply additional protective coats and layers to your furniture, as this durable material already has a natural protection against the elements.

Andy Wu, founder of Backyard Oasis, says, "Teak repels water, rot, and even insects looking for their evening snack by virtue of its natural oils, naturally weatherproofed by Mother Nature. That's why teak's been a favorite for centuries, from ships to patio furniture."

While teak is not entirely impervious to the effects of outdoor exposure, unlike other woods, teak ages in a more graceful, attractive manner.

As interior designer Rachel Blindauer explains, "Unlike other woods, it doesn’t warp or splinter easily and gracefully develops a silvery patina over time. I often specify it for clients who want a low-maintenance, high-end look that matures beautifully, even when left uncovered."

This makes teak one of the materials for outdoor furniture that lasts the longest.

The Downfalls of Using Teak Outdoors

As we've established, teak is undoubtedly a strong and durable choice for your outdoor area, but this doesn't mean it's entirely exempt from fault.

"Teak is remarkably resilient, but like any natural material, it can weather and change in appearance over time," explains Laura, "Left untreated, it will gradually shift to a silvery-gray hue, which many consider part of its charm. However, exposure to heavy rainfall, fluctuating temperatures, and prolonged direct sun can cause surface cracks or slight warping if not cared for. These aren’t structural concerns but are part of the natural aging process."

These natural shifts in appearance are only really a downfall if you see them as one. For many, this silver patina is just part of teak's charm, a symbol of a well-loved and well-used item.

As Rachel explains, "The primary 'risk' with teak isn’t performance — it’s expectation. If you’re attached to that rich honey-brown color, know that teak will weather to gray unless regularly oiled. For some, that aging process is part of the charm. For others, it’s a letdown."

If you fall more into the latter camp and are keen to make the original warm tone last, there are some small tricks you can do to stop your outdoor furniture from fading.

"To maintain teak’s original honey-gold finish and reduce surface wear, we recommend regular cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap," suggests Laura, "Applying a teak protector annually can also help preserve the color, though many of our clients love the silvered look it develops over time."

Depending on the climate you live in, you may feel the need to take additional protective measures to prepare your outdoor furniture for winter.

"During harsher months, protective covers are a smart option to minimise cleaning and extend the table’s lifespan, while still embracing the raw beauty of natural materials," Laura continues.

Beyond shifts in tone, the other potential issue lies in surface-level cracks and fractures.

"The plain truth is: teak cracks or splits if you don't take care of it, especially with wacky weather fluctuations, humid heat, aberrant freezes," says Andy.

However, much like the silver patina, this is a purely aesthetic issue, and one that many won't even consider an issue at all.

The Best Teak Alternatives for Outdoor Furniture

For all the benefits of teak furniture, there is one obvious downfall: the price. Teak may be one of our experts' favorites, but it is not a cheap option by any means. So, if you're on more of a budget or just want a different look, there are plenty of other outdoor materials to choose from.

Chloe Burrow, from Laura James, shares, "In my opinion, there are materials that have a similar level of resistance to British weather, like acacia wood and treated rattan, which are much more cost-effective. So, if you’re looking for outdoor style on a budget, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend teak."

When it comes to outdoor furniture, acacia vs teak is a much-discussed debate. Like teak, acacia is an attractive and durable option, with the added appeal of a lower price point.

However, as Rachel explains, "Acacia is often considered a more affordable alternative, but it’s less stable outdoors. It lacks the natural oil content of teak and tends to crack or fade more quickly if not sealed or brought inside. I think of acacia as a great option for covered porches or areas with low exposure, but not for long-term open-air use. Teak is the heirloom piece; acacia is the seasonal stand-in."

But wood is not the only option for your outdoor seating, and modern designs are increasingly reliant on alternative materials, which can offer a sleeker, modern look.

"At Nth Degree, we champion timeless design and enduring quality," says Laura, "Alongside teak, we recommend materials like powder-coated aluminium for its lightweight durability and sleek modern lines, and natural stone such as travertine or marble for tables — both offering a luxurious yet practical outdoor experience."

Rachel is also a fan of the sleek modernity offered by aluminum, saying, "Beyond teak, I often recommend powder-coated aluminum (especially in coastal regions), woven synthetic rattan for lightness and texture, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for modern, eco-friendly durability. For upholstered pieces, solution-dyed acrylics like Sunbrella are a must — they resist fading, mold, and spills while offering a luxe indoor look. I always encourage clients to blend textures — wood, metal, fabric — for a layered outdoor living room that feels curated, not catalogued."

Just like inside your home, creating a stylish, layered look outside is all about combining different materials. So while teak can play a key role, this doesn't mean there isn't plenty of space for other textures to shine.

So, if you're looking for an outdoor furniture option that is low-maintenance, durable, and effortlessly beautiful, teak is the way to go. But if you want to explore what acacia wood furniture is, for further comparison, we have a guide on it, too.

Close your eyes and picture your ideal summer setup. Chances are, it probably doesn’t involve cold metal, and definitely not bouclé — one’s not nearly comfortable enough, and the other, while plush, is entirely unfit for the outdoors. Rattan garden furniture, though? That’s summer in a frame.

“Rattan garden furniture is so popular because it strikes a perfect balance between timeless style and modern versatility,” says Ashton Jones, director of assortment and product development at Blu Dot.

Ashton notes a shift in outdoor furniture trends toward curved, sculptural silhouettes (à la White Lotus), but insists rattan never really goes out of style — its “warm, natural texture” and layered references feel at once coastal, tropical, and bohemian.

Point being — if you want to hold onto that dreamy, hotel-adjacent state of mind when your eyes are open, this breezy backyard material is the easiest way to bring it home. Below, a tightly edited guide to the rattan garden furniture worth your time — chairs, sofas, and sets that feel as good as they look.

Rattan Garden Chairs

Rattan Garden Sofas

Rattan Garden Tables

Rattan Garden Furniture Sets

FAQs

Can Rattan Garden Furniture Be Left Outdoors Year-Round?

Untreated, natural rattan “should not be left outdoors all year long,” advises Blu Dot’s Ashton Jones. “It’s a plant-based material and is sensitive to moisture, sunlight, and temperature changes — it can crack, fade, or grow mold if exposed to the elements for extended periods.”

Which is exactly why all the “rattan” furniture featured above isn’t actually rattan, not technically. The term has stuck, but what you’re seeing is typically a synthetic designed to mimic the look, also known as resin wicker. And that, Ashton notes, “can be left outside year-round, if it’s high quality.”

These synthetic options “are designed to withstand sun, rain, and even snow, especially when paired with rust-proof frames like aluminum,” she says. “That said, even synthetic rattan will last longer if protected during harsh weather, like using furniture covers or storing it during winter.”

Why Choose Rattan Over Wood, Plastic, or Metal?

“Synthetic rattan, when done well, is a standout choice for outdoor furniture,” says Ashton. “It holds up beautifully to the elements over time, resisting fading, cracking, and moisture” — qualities that can’t always be said for high-maintenance materials like teak, which may require regular oiling and upkeep.

“It doesn’t get hot in the sun or rust in damp conditions,” she adds. “And beyond its durability, it brings a natural warmth and texture that makes outdoor spaces feel just as inviting and layered as interiors. It’s practical, low-maintenance, and stylish — everything outdoor living should be.”

What’s the Difference Between Rattan and Wicker?

It’s the age-old sparkling wine vs. Champagne debate. “Rattan is the material — a natural vine used to make furniture — while wicker is the weaving technique,” Ashton explains. “Rattan furniture can be wicker, but not all wicker furniture is made from rattan.”

It’s a little confusing, sure — but all you really need to know is this: if it’s in this edit, it’s rattan. (Or “rattan,” now that you know.)

A little shade never hurt anyone — especially when garden furniture brands are channeling White Lotus-level aristocratic drama. With our edit of the best garden parasols, you’re already halfway to your own resort moment.

Of course, practicality is an essential part of selecting pieces for your outdoor living space, but who says they can't also be fun? Once you have your basics down, the next step is to spice up your space with a few unique pieces that bring your garden to life. The one piece that's been on my wish list as of late? A chic garden swing chair.

I am always on the side of the more seating, the merrier, but if you want a space that sings of taste, opting for pieces with a bit more personality will be game-changing. A garden swing chair marries form and function in one fabulous floating seat. They can be boho-inspired, modern, colorful, or minimalist — the best garden furniture will always be the pieces that speak to you.

Anything that incites you to enjoy more time in the fresh air is a win in my decor guidebook. And what is more whimsical than a stylish garden swing chair? Below are a few of my favorite styles I've spotted so far, but fair warning, you may have your garden party guests fighting over who gets to sit in the swing chair.

Garden swing chairs have an inherent sense of luxury relaxation about them, instantly turning your outdoor space into a serene and unique oasis.

But if you are looking for a lounge-friendly piece with a little less movement, outdoor sling chairs are the style of the season, and luckily, I've done a bit of shopping in that department as well.

Of course, your patio should be filled with furniture pieces that practically suit your needs, but who says they can't also be fun? I've done my fair share of furniture shopping for the great outdoors this season, and there is one style that has captured my attention and my shopping cart.

Outdoor swing chairs are a stylish way to show off your creativity and instantly make your outdoor living area feel more customized. Once you have your outdoor furniture basics down, the next step is to spice up your space with a few unique pieces that bring your outdoor space to life. You may be picturing the clunky, canopy-covered swing from your grandmother's yard. However, in 2025, these fabulous floating seats hold a new level of luxury, bringing the resort aesthetic to your backyard.

Your outdoor setup should make you want to spend more time enjoying the fresh air and basking in the evening glow. With a chair as whimsical as a swing chair, wanting to spend more time in your carefully curated space comes easily. Below are six of my favorite outdoor swing chair styles to shop; the hardest part left is choosing which one to bring home.

Outdoor swing chairs have an inherent sense of luxury relaxation about them, instantly turning your outdoor space into a serene and unique oasis. But if you are looking for a lounge-friendly piece with a little more leg room, perhaps an outdoor lounge chair should be next on your list.

If you'd asked me last year what color outdoor furniture to buy, I might have given you a very different answer than today. We were in the grips of color-drenched everything, so I'd have probably told you to match in with your fence color.

However, something is happening this year — we're all leaning towards contrasting colors. Yes, the colors I'm being drawn to, especially with bigger pieces like outdoor lounge chairs, are all about bringing the holiday aesthetic home, while creating a bold statement against the verdant backdrop of your yard.

Case in point, this outdoor lounge chair set I found on Wayfair, with its vibrant, nearly neon, orange shade. It's an instant mood-lifter, and what's putting me in an even better spirit is its in the Wayfair sale, too.

Why orange? Well, while red might be the complementary color to your green foliage, it doesn't have the same sunshine appeal, and it can be a bit trickier to make red and green go together well — without the Christmas effect.

Orange comes in all kinds of shades, too, and maybe even more of a trend than the bright, vibrant orange are terracotta tones. In fact, having just returned from Milan Design Week, I can confidently say that terracotta was the biggest color trend for all the best garden furniture I saw the whole week.

Are you on board with the orange trend? It's, by far, not the only outdoor furniture trend I've noticed this year, but if you're unsure on what color to go for, it's my pick for the season, whether you go bright and vivid, or soothing and terracotta.

My trips to see the latest and greatest design this year confirmed one thing to me about outdoor furniture right now. Wide stripes are in.

This isn't an entirely new trend; in fact, some of the best garden furniture we've seen over the last few years has featured bold 'deckchair' stripes. "Who doesn’t love a stripe?" asks Tim Walters of George Spencer Designs. "Deck chair stripes in bright colors are a mainstay of outdoor furniture, a reminder of holidays spent on the beach."

However, I'm going to pitch the popularity of the stripe for outdoor furniture at another source of inspiration — I think it might be the Soho House effect, especially for more urban garden settings. Soho House's properties, often with outdoor areas that featured sun loungers and chairs with signature wide stripes, bring a touch of modern elevation to the stripe idea, which you don't necessarily relate to the classic deckchair.

I think the success of the wide stripe in the garden is down to the effect it has against the wilder elements of your space. While, yes, some gardens are strictly linear in their hardscaping design anyway, but it's the contrast between the straight lines and the organic irregularity of plants that creates the dynamic that makes stripes pop in outdoor areas.

Then, throw in an exciting accent of color, which we don't always see a lot of in garden furniture like outdoor sofas, which have long been limited to just gray or beige, and you've got a design that's working much harder to elevate your yard.

Whatever the reason, it's the one thing you'll find connecting all the coolest backyards right now, so I've sought out the best examples of it for 2025, so you know where to shop the look.

These stripes aren't, admittedly, going to be everyone's thing. They have big main character energy, and sometimes you just want something that plays a more supporting role.

But, it's not the only big outdoor furniture trend for 2025, so there's plenty more inspiration out there if you're looking for a more pared-back look.

Remember the artistic line drawings that had their moment several seasons ago? Those softly abstracted suggestions of form — a petal here, an elbow there — rendered as a single, continuous stroke. A little Picasso, a little Matisse. Well now there’s a new wave of outdoor furniture taking its cue from that same fluid gesture. Consider it the three-dimensional, wrought iron manifestation of a squiggle.

We’re calling it a microtrend because, well, it hasn’t quite gone mainstream yet (which, arguably, makes it even better). But its presence is undeniable — most notably in Sarah Sherman Samuel’s latest collection for Lulu and Georgia, where wavy silhouettes and powder-coated curves evoke a breezy, Italian-villa-on-holiday feel.

Elsewhere, Jake Arnold’s debut outdoor collection for Crate & Barrel offers a more restrained interpretation — think “Old Hollywood glam meets English garden.” In our conversation about the launch, Jake described his approach as designing furniture “inspired by interior silhouettes — elegant but with a playful, lighthearted touch that feels right for outdoor living.” The goal? The best outdoor furniture should be beautiful from every angle.

There’s history here, too. Case in point: Herman Miller’s reissue of Alexander Girard’s Flower Table, originally designed in 1977. With its petal-shaped base and scalloped top, it’s a functional sculpture with botanical overtones. “Its playful nature not only makes a striking visual statement, but is also durable enough for outdoor use, blending creativity with practicality,” says Jennifer Nield, vice president of lifestyle at MillerKnoll.

Jennifer tells me customers are leaning into bold shapes and vibrant color for outdoor living rooms — spaces where risk-taking feels easier, more joyful. “We’re seeing our customers embrace playful shapes and vibrant colors to create lively spaces,” she says. “The focus is on bold, whimsical pieces that infuse joy into outdoor areas. We find that people are willing to be a bit more adventurous with outdoor furnishings!”

These flower-inspired outdoor furniture silhouettes — some literal, some more suggestive — feel like physical “drawings” of the gardens they inhabit: looped, sculptural, and just abstract enough to remain charming rather than twee.

Thoughtful, but light on theory. No need to intellectualize it too much. You’ll know it when you see it — and you’ll want to look again.

Consider this your cue to stop and smell the roses — or at least, take a seat among them.

No garden setup is complete without one. These are the best patio umbrellas to elevate your alfresco days.

I’d love to say I had a laid-back approach to finding furniture for my garden. The kind where you pop out on a Saturday and come back with something that just works. But no such luck. I must have spent weeks trawling websites and Instagram, screenshotting anything even vaguely stylish. Because anyone who’s ever tried to find good furniture for the great outdoors knows — it’s a minefield. Everything’s either too bulky, too try-hard, too rustic, or looks suspiciously cheap.

Sure, there are some seriously beautiful options out there, but last year, I’d just finished a full house renovation, and I needed something a little more savvy. Style-wise, I was after elevated yet easy. Timeless, good-looking, and made to last. Most important of all, it had to survive the winter uncovered. I didn’t want to spend half the year staring out from inside at black plastic covers.

The best garden furniture for my space? As it turns out, it was the Sudbury Collection from Rowen & Wren.

The Sudbury Collection from Rowen & Wren

I've admired Rowen & Wren for a while. I like their photography for a start (Emma Lee has worked with us editorially in the past, and there is a beautiful softness to her shots), but mostly I am drawn to the fact that there is a considered elegance to all the brand’s pieces.

They feel soft but assured: not shouty, not trend-led but like they've always belonged. It makes sense when you know that Rowen & Wren was born out of a cottage in Hampshire and founded by a couple who live and breathe the aesthetic — one a textile graduate, the other a retail expert, both clearly obsessed with detail.

The Sudbury range is exactly what you’d expect from people who design with real life in mind. It’s pared-back in the best way: simple lines, slim silhouettes, and with jolly removable cushions that give it just enough character. The steel frames are sculptural with and without pads, so they look good all year and literally do not wear. No rust, no fading, no signs of fatigue… I haven’t even needed to jet wash them down to get my garden ready for this year.

I went for two armchairs for my home's terrace, and the table and chairs for my courtyard dining zone. Cushion-wise, I chose the green awning stripe for my dining chairs and the red stripes for my arm chairs — a bit French café, a bit countryside picnic.

Aside from being just really lovely looking and hardwearing, the other reason I chose the Sudbury set was that it was actually available in stock. Not “lead time: 14–16 weeks.”

I picked a delivery slot, a van turned up, and I was hosting lunch the next day. That sort of seamlessness sums up the Rowen & Wren experience in general — it’s not flashy, it’s not overpackaged. Just beautifully made, intentionally designed furniture that slots into your home like it’s always been there.

My only caveat? The pieces are incredibly heavy (no surprise given they’re galvanised steel) – so make sure that you know where you want them to go before the team shows up, as you’re not going to be moving them again (yourself) very easily.

Shop the Collection

If you’ve been trawling through furniture options for your garden and finding everything either too rustic, too slick, or just wildly priced, the Sudbury set might strike the right balance. It’s thoughtfully made, quietly stylish and built to last (and look at!). It certainly ticked the right boxes for me.

Spring is on the horizon, and you may be thinking about bringing your metal garden furniture out of hibernation in time for some Alfresco dining. Whether it's stored in a garage or under tarpaulin, your seating and dining pieces will likely need a spruce before use. So, knowing how to clean metal garden furniture is important.

One of the many advantages of metal garden furniture is that, as well as the numerous styles, colors and finishes available, it's also low-maintenance. However, this doesn't mean no maintenance. That is why knowing how to clean outdoor patio furniture, including metal materials, is important. This includes a thorough clean (in the right way) at the start, middle and end of the spring-summer season for garden furniture that continues to look like new every year.

With just a little bit of time and effort, you can keep your metal garden furniture looking good for longer and just in time for those long-awaited lavished parties in the backyard.

What You'll Need

• A mild soap, such as Castile — This Castile Liquid Soap from Amazon is vegan-friendly and can be used as a household cleaner, for surfaces, laundry and much more.

• White vinegar or baking soda (optional, for tough stains) — This Hexeal White Vinegar from Amazon is an all-purpose cleaner with a fresh scent

• Soft sponge or microfiber cloth — This BrabantiaMicrofibre Dish Cloth from John Lewis should do the trick.

• Soft-bristle brush (if your furniture has textured areas, sticky spots, or light rust stains), such as this Bamboo Dish Brush from Amazon.

• Warm water

• Bucket or garden hose

• Clean, dry towel (if air-drying isn't possible)

"Metal garden furniture is sensitive to rust, so keep that in mind as your priority, says Alex Varela, General Manager, Dallas Maids. "Also, aim to clean it on a dry, sunny day to make sure water evaporates quickly and doesn’t leave permanent moisture on the surface."

How to Clean Metal Outdoor Furniture

Cleaning and caring for your metal outdoor furniture is essential if you want it to continue looking smart and in working order. Speaking with Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta's Housekeeping, she explains why.

"Cleaning metal garden furniture is essential for preserving its appearance, functionality, and lifespan," says Muffetta. "Over time, exposure to dirt, moisture, and the elements can lead to rust, corrosion, or discoloration. Regular cleaning prevents these issues, ensuring your furniture remains attractive and durable."

It helps to know what your garden furniture is made from too, as this will point you towards the right tools and techniques.

"Different materials and finishes require tailored approaches to avoid damage and maintain their longevity," explains Muffetta. "While some cleaning methods work universally, others need adjustments based on the metal or finish."

Step 1 - Remove loose dirt, dust and debris: "Use a dry cloth or soft-bristle brush to remove any loose dirt, leaves, and debris," says Muffetta. "Then rinse the furniture with a garden hose or a bucket of water to eliminate any remaining surface dust."

Step 2 - Prepare cleaning solution: "Mix a few drops of mild, non-toxic dish soap, such as castile soap into a bucket of warm water," continues Muffetta. "For stubborn stains, add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the soapy water for extra cleaning power.

"Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda directly onto a damp sponge for spot cleaning. Avoid any abrasive scrubbers on steel, as it is prone to scratches. For deeper cleaning on powder-coated metals, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for powder-coated finishes and be sure to avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the finish."

Step 3 - Clean the furniture: Next up, clean your metal garden furniture. "Dip the sponge or cloth into the soapy solution and gently scrub all surfaces, including table tops, chair arms, and sofa frames," says Muffetta. "Use a soft-bristle brush to clean textured or intricate areas, such as joints or decorative details.

"For sticky spots or light rust stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub with a soft-bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue."

"If you notice any rust on your furniture, you can also spray on an all-purpose cleaner and scrub with a wire brush too," explains Alex. "Rinse with cold water and dry. Sometimes that’s all it takes to remove it."

Step 4 - Rinse thoroughly: "With a garden hose or a bucket of clean water, rinse away soap, dirt, and cleaning solutions," notes Muffetta. "Ensure all areas are rinsed well to prevent soap residue, which can attract dirt."

Step 5 - Dry the furniture: "Place the furniture in direct sunlight to dry naturally. Sunlight helps prevent mold and mildew formation," adds Muffetta. "If that's not possible, due to damp or humid conditions, wipe down the furniture with a clean, dry towel to avoid water spots."

"Metal is usually porous, which means that liquids and dirt will infiltrate if you don’t let it dry properly," says Alex.

Step 6 - Apply appropriate finishing touches: "Apply a rust inhibitor or furniture wax to steel or iron surfaces for added protection," says Muffetta. "An aluminum polish can be applied to restore shine if needed. Although, avoid additional coatings on powder-coated surfaces but ensure the finish is clean and dry to prevent damage."

How Often Should You Clean Metal Garden Furniture

In general, well-maintained outdoor furniture lasts the longest. So, at the start of the season, begin with a thorough cleaning to remove any dust, dirt, or cobwebs accumulated during storage. "Inspect for signs of rust or wear and address them promptly too," says Muffetta.

She continues: "Clean your metal garden furniture every one–two months, especially if it is exposed to rain or humidity. Wipe down surfaces after heavy use to remove food, drink spills, or debris.

"Then at the end of the season, before storing your furniture, clean it to remove any lingering grime or residue. And apply protective coatings, such as rust inhibitors or furniture wax, to shield it during the offseason."

FAQs

How Do You Remove Oxidation From Metal Outdoor Furniture?

Rust and oxidation can diminish the appearance and durability of your metal outdoor furniture. However, these issues can often be resolved with simple methods and tools. According to Muffetta there are various ways to remove oxidation from metal outdoor furniture, once it's been cleaned, depending on the severity.

Option 1 - White Vinegar - for light rust or oxidation: "Soak a cloth or sponge in white vinegar and apply it to the affected areas," says Muffetta. "Let the vinegar sit for 10–15 minutes to dissolve the rust. Then scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush or steel wool until the rust is removed. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry.

Option 2 - Baking Soda Paste - for stubborn rust: "Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water or vinegar until it forms a thick consistency," says Muffetta. "Apply the paste to the rusted areas and let it sit for 20–30 minutes. Then scrub with a toothbrush or steel wool to lift the rust. Rinse and dry thoroughly."

Option 3 - Lemon Juice and Salt - for small rust spots on flat surfaces: "Sprinkle salt onto the rusted area, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over it," says Muffetta. "Let it sit for 2–3 hours. Scrub the area with steel wool or a soft brush, rinse, and dry."

Option 4: Commercial Rust Remover - for heavily rusted furniture: "Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure the product is safe for your furniture’s material," says Muffetta.

"If your metal furniture is really rusty, apply a specialized product,' says Alex. "I suggest a rust spray or gel like the Rust Oleum Dissolver Gel from Amazon. Apply the rust remover, let it sit for 15 - 30, and use a soft wire brush or a microfiber towel to scrub the rust off. Rinse with water and dry with a microfiber rag. Make sure you use gloves and a mask."

Muffetta tells us that whichever option you choose, for persistent rust or oxidation, it may be necessary to use fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool to sand away any remaining rust. "Focus on the rusted spots but avoid excessive pressure to prevent scratching the metal," says Muffetta.

"Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. If rust has caused discoloration or damage, apply a rust-resistant primer and touch up with outdoor metal paint. Alternatively, use clear furniture wax or a protective sealant to prevent future rust and oxidation, depending on the metal and finish.

"By using these methods, you can effectively remove rust and oxidation from your metal furniture and keep it looking like new for seasons to come."

It's as simple as that! It's time to prepare your backyard and small patio ideas ahead of the colorful spring and summer season that is yet to embrace our outdoor living spaces.

As the warm weather rolls in, our outdoor spaces become an extension of our homes. Whether it’s a tranquil spot for morning coffee or the lively setting of an al fresco dinner party, your patio furniture plays an important role. However, after months of exposure to the elements, your furniture may not look as inviting as you’d like.

While the prospect of cleaning outdoor furniture might seem time-consuming, it doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and some know-how, you can have your patio pieces looking as good as new. From wood to metal and fabric to plastic, every material demands a slightly different approach. But worry not — with the right tools and techniques, you can follow the right steps.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about cleaning outdoor patio furniture. From the essential tools you’ll want to have on hand to a step-by-step walkthrough for tackling different materials, you’ll be ready to restore your outdoor living room to its former glory.

What You’ll Need

Whether you're looking to clean your outdoor side tables or outdoor metal garden furniture, you'll need to gather the right cleaning supplies. Having the right materials will not only make the job easier but also help protect your furniture from damage. Here’s furniture maker Richard Louis’s list of what you’ll need:

• Soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush for scrubbing corners and crevices.

• Mr Siga Microfiber Cleaning Cloths from Amazon for wiping surfaces.

• Bucket of warm, soapy water — mild dish soap works well for most materials.

• White vinegar from Amazon for tackling mould, mildew, or tough stains.

• Bicarbonate of Soda from M&S for additional scrubbing power on stubborn spots.

• Garden hose or a pressure washer (used cautiously) for rinsing.

• Outdoor fabric cleaner for cushions and upholstery.

• Furniture wax or sealant such as Shabby Chic Multi Surface Sealant from Amazon for wood and metal surfaces.

How to Clean Outdoor Patio Furniture

From rattan outdoor furniture to wood outdoor furniture, it's important to keep materials in mind before you get to cleaning. Here is a step-by-step guide on what you need to do when it comes to cleaning outdoor patio furniture.

Step 1: Clear and Inspect

Before you start scrubbing, clear your furniture of any cushions, throws, or accessories. Check the furniture for signs of damage, such as rust, cracks, or mold. Address these issues as necessary before deep cleaning to avoid worsening the problem.

Step 2: Dust and Rinse

"Use a soft-bristled brush or a dry microfiber cloth to dust off loose dirt and debris," says Richard. "Then, use a garden hose to rinse the furniture thoroughly. Avoid using a high-pressure setting, as this can damage delicate materials like wood or wicker."

Step 3: Clean Based on Material

Theresa Butler, Principal and Founder of Theresa Butler Interiors, recommends treating furniture differently, depending on what material it is made from, as some cleaning methods may work on one type but potentially damage others.

Wood: Mix warm, soapy water and dip a microfibre cloth or soft brush into the solution. Gently scrub the surface, following the grain. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry. Apply a wood sealant or oil to restore shine and protect the material.

Metal: "For aluminium or steel furniture, use soapy water and a microfibre cloth," says Theresa. "Pay attention to any rust spots; you can remove these using a mix of white vinegar and baking soda." Once cleaned, dry thoroughly and apply a protective wax to prevent future rust.

Wicker or Rattan: For wicker furniture like pottery barn’s outdoor furniture, use a soft brush and soapy water to clean woven surfaces gently. Theresa suggests that you try to not oversaturate the material, as this can weaken it. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment for hard-to-reach crevices. Dry immediately with a clean cloth.

Plastic: Plastic furniture is among the easiest to clean. Soapy water and a microfibre cloth should do the trick. For tough stains, add a small amount of baking soda to the mix. Rinse well and let it air dry.

Fabric Cushions: Remove the covers, if possible, and wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For non-removable cushions, use a specialised outdoor fabric cleaner and a soft brush. Allow them to dry completely in the sun to prevent mildew.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After cleaning, rinse all surfaces thoroughly with your garden hose to remove any soap residue. Ensure everything is dried properly to prevent water spots, rust, or mold. Use a clean microfiber cloth to speed up the drying process if necessary.

For wood and metal furniture, apply a protective finish to shield against future wear and tear. Rearrange your cushions, adding fresh covers such as the Gracie Oaks Outdoor Cushion Cover Set from Wayfair if needed, and consider using furniture covers when your patio set is not in use. This will extend its lifespan and reduce the need for frequent deep cleans.

FAQs

Can You Use Dawn to Clean Outdoor Patio Furniture?

"Yes, Dawn dish soap can be an effective and safe cleaner for outdoor patio furniture," says Richard. "Its grease-cutting formula works well on plastic, metal, and even fabric surfaces."

To use, mix a small amount of Dawn from Amazon with warm water in a bucket. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the solution and gently scrub the furniture. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soapy residue. This will prevent streaking or potential residue build-up.

For tougher stains, you can increase the concentration slightly, but always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t harm the material. Dawn is also mild enough for cleaning outdoor cushions, though for fabric, it’s important to allow them to dry fully in the sun to avoid mildew.

Can You Hose Down Outdoor Patio Furniture?

In short, yes you can hose down outdoor patio furniture as a quick and effective way to remove loosen dirt. It’s particularly useful for hard surfaces like metal, plastic, or resin. Simply use a garden hose and adjust the spray nozzle depending on the water pressure needed. For more delicate materials, such as wicker or certain types of wood, use a gentle spray setting to avoid causing damage.

According to Theresa, while hosing is convenient, it’s not always sufficient for deep cleaning. After rinsing, follow up with soapy water and a sponge or brush to scrub away any stubborn grime. Always dry the furniture thoroughly afterwards to prevent water spots.

Taking the time to clean your outdoor patio furniture can transform your outdoor living area and make it more inviting for both daily use and special occasions.

With regular maintenance, your patio set helps turn your backyard into an outdoor living room no matter the weather. And remember, a quick clean every few weeks during peak use will save you time and effort when it comes to a more thorough refresh. With your outdoor space restored, all that’s left to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy.

As temperatures drop and winter settles in, your outside furniture may suffer if left unprotected. From heavy rain to freezing snow, unwinterized furniture can take a beating, potentially leading to cracking, rust, mold, or discoloration.

Each type of outdoor furniture requires specific care to endure winter’s challenges. To preserve the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor pieces, it’s crucial to prepare them for the winter season.

To help you prepare your furniture for winter, we’ve gathered six practical tips from industry experts. These steps will ensure your furniture remains in great condition through the colder climate.

1. Clean Thoroughly

Before winterizing any pieces of outdoor furniture, it’s essential to start with a deep clean. Dirt, mildew, and debris left on furniture can lead to stains and deterioration over time, especially when trapped under covers. And that's where knowing how to clean teak outdoor furniture comes in.

Cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics; it also prevents mold and mildew growth during storage. According to home furniture expert Beena Shaikh, “Even the smallest debris can hold moisture, leading to permanent damage. A clean surface ensures the furniture stays pristine over the winter.”

For wood furniture, use a mild soap and water solution, avoiding harsh chemicals that can strip the finish. For metal pieces, a gentle scrub with water and a non-abrasive cloth like this Swedish Dishcloth Cellulose Sponge Cloths from Amazon works well. Cushions should be vacuumed and spot-cleaned according to manufacturer guidelines.

2. Invest in High-Quality Furniture Covers

Durable, waterproof covers such as Costway Patio 3-Seater Outdoor Deep Couch Sofa Cover from Target, are one of the simplest ways to protect outdoor furniture from winter. "Look for covers specifically designed for your type of furniture to ensure a snug fit and proper ventilation," continues Beena. "High-quality covers are made from UV-resistant and breathable materials that prevent condensation, mold and rust."

Furniture covers act as a shield and stop outdoor furniture from fading, but they need to fit well and be secured properly so that the strong winter winds don’t blow them away. Use bungee cords or ties to anchor covers in place, and regularly check for any tears or pooling water throughout the season.

3. Store Cushions and Fabrics Inside

"Even weather-resistant cushions and fabrics benefit from indoor storage during the colder months," says furniture maker Richard Louise. "Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause fabrics to become brittle and lose their water-repellent properties. Store cushions in a dry, well-ventilated space such as a garage, basement, or storage bench."

If space is an issue, consider vacuum-sealing cushions using MagicBag Smart Design Instant Space Saver Storage bags from Walmart to save room. Always ensure they’re completely dry before sealing to prevent mildew.

4. Apply Protective Treatments

One way to winterize your backyard and the furniture that it holds is by applying a protective treatment on them — such as a fabric protector. For wooden furniture, a coat of weatherproof sealant or furniture oil such as this Pure Tung Oil for Wood Finishing from Amazon can prevent cracking and warping caused by moisture. For metal pieces, applying a rust-resistant spray such as Rust-Oleum Universal Spray from Target or touch-up paint on any scratches helps guard against corrosion.

These treatments are easy to apply and make a significant difference in extending the life of your outdoor furniture, however be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application and drying times as it's more likely to rain during winter.

5. Keep Furniture Off the Ground

If your furniture remains outside during the winter, consider elevating it slightly to protect it from pooling water and snow.

Use bricks, wooden blocks, or specialized furniture risers such as the Slipstick Bed Risers/Furniture Raisers from Walmart, to create a small buffer between the furniture and the ground.

6. Store Lighter Furniture Inside

If possible, store lightweight or easily movable furniture indoors. Outdoor folding chairs and smaller tables can be safely tucked away in a shed or garage. This not only reduces their exposure to winter but also frees up outdoor space.

"Out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind," says Theresa Butler, Principal and Founder of Theresa Butler Interiors. "Check stored furniture periodically for any signs of pests, moisture, or damage to ensure they’re in good condition come spring."

FAQs

Can outdoor furniture be left outside in the winter?

In short, yes you can leave your outdoor furniture outside during winter if you do take the time to cover it up and protect it correctly.

Winterizing outdoor furniture may seem like a daunting task, however a little preparation will save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future. By taking these proactive measures. you will ensure that your outdoor furniture weathers the winter in style.

Furniture, whether for inside or outside, is an investment. It needs to look good and it needs to last. So before splashing any cash on garden pieces, it's worth considering, what's the best wood for outdoor furniture?

Why is this important? Well different timbers have different qualities. Some wood species, such as teak and cedar stand up to UV rays, damp, cold and inclement weather better than others, so require less maintenance and last longer.

Trees, such as teak and oak, tend to grow slower than others, like eucalyptus or acacia. This makes the wood more precious, and therefore more expensive. However, wood outdoor furniture of any kind should never be left on a grass lawn as it will eventually rot. Always place wooden furniture on a patio, deck or other solid surface.

Where wood is sourced from may also be an important factor in your decision-making process. Some people avoid tropical woods altogether, due to deforestation and traceability issues. So find out which timbers score best when it comes to outdoor furniture.

So which is the best? If you ask Livingetc's editors, our choice is between two. When budget's not an issue, we like teak for the perfect combination of stylish good looks and durability — however, there are some issues with sustainability. This is followed by acacia, a slightly-less robust but cheaper type of wood. Aside from those, each type of wood has its pros and cons — and you might not find the most modern styles in all kinds of timber.

Below, we break down what you need to know.

1. Acacia

Acacia wooden outdoor furniture is a more affordable option for many people. This timber has warm honey tones and a rich grain. It is dense, durable and suitable for outdoor furniture, however, acacia is not as hardwearing as some other hardwoods, so will need to be stored away or properly covered if you experience harsh weather in the winter.

"There are a number of brands that produce beautiful-looking acacia wood outdoor furniture that I think are a great option for certain spaces," says New York-based landscape designer Kat Aul Cervoni, founder if Staghorn Living.

When comparing teak vs acacia, you'll find there's a significant price difference. "First and foremost, acacia does tend to be much more economical than teak or ipe, but the trade off is that it may not last as long. Aesthetically, it still has a lovely color and can also be stained to give a varied finish."

2. Teak

Teak features heavily in outdoor furniture collections, due to its beauty and durability. With plenty of natural oils, teak is able to stand up to various types of weather, from sunshine to showers. Teak trees take 35-50 years to mature, so teak outdoor furniture is pricey. However, it can last decades.

That said, this timber is rife with controversies. Teak grown in Myanmar is sanctioned in the U.S, Canada, U.K and Europe, so the import and sale of it is illegal. However there appear to be loopholes and it is still sold. Even teak grown on plantations in Indonesia is linked to issues of deforestation and habitat loss, as well as the carbon implications of importing. If you do intend to buy teak, do your research.

"Teak outdoor furniture can last for generations, in different climates and with minimal to no maintenance," says Kim Asner, product director of Country Casual Teak. "It has a high oil content, which make it resistant to weather and pests, as well as to warping or splintering.

"When left outside, over time, teak will go from a warm, golden color to a silvery gray patina." However, you can restore weathered teak outdoor furniture to its original brown tone.

3. Cedar

Cedar wood is a popular timber for outdoor furniture, as it naturally resists rot, decay and pests. (It was historically used for wardrobes due to its insect-repellent properties). It can also withstand UV light, rain and humidity, so it's low maintenance when used outside.

There are different tones of cedar wood, due to the various species, however some are stronger and more durable than others. Eastern Red Cedar, which grows on the east coast of the U.S. has a reddish hue and is stronger than Western Red Cedar, with a Janka hardness rating of 900. Although lower down the Janka scale than other timbers, both are highly suitable for outdoor furniture.

"Although teak is super durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance, it is also extremely pricey," says Chris Peterson, author of the Essential Home Skills Handbook. "Cedar is attractive and significantly less expensive. Yet it's almost as durable as exotic hardwoods. That's why I've always purchased cedar outdoor furnishings. Cedar has a lot of natural oils like the more expensive woods. It will also age to a handsome gray, if left unsealed."

4. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree, so it's less expensive than slower-growing timbers, such as teak. In the US it may be referred to as Lyptus®, which is a trade name for a hybrid of Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus urophylla, grown on plantations in Brazil.

It's generally a pale honey-toned wood with an attractive grain, however darker, reddish hues are also available. Although used to make outdoor furniture, Eucalyptus requires more care and maintenance than other types of timber, so it might not be the outdoor furniture that lasts the longest.

Eric Meier, founder of The Wood Database, comments on Lyptus® are that "it is moderately durable in regard to decay, however may be susceptible to insect attack."

5. Redwood

Native to California and southern Oregon, Redwoods are an iconic tree species, known for their towering heights. The timber has a warm reddish tone and natural oils which provide insect and moisture resistant qualities. This makes it a good choice for outdoor wooden furniture.

"We use vertical grain redwood lumber," says Raul Hernandez, founder of Forever Redwood. "It's quarter sawn, which is a lost art, but it makes a huge difference outdoors. It means the wood will never splinter or barely develop cracks even after decades in the weather.

"We restore the forest too, cutting just 10% per decade. Limiting the rate of cut is key. We then use the limited amount of felled timber to make patio furniture and shade structures. Nothing lasts longer outdoors than California redwood."

6. White Oak

Oak has been used for centuries in Europe as a construction material for boats, churches and buildings, due to its beauty, durability and longevity. This demonstrates its ability to withstand the elements, so it's a great timber for outdoor furniture too.

As a dense, slow-growing hardwood, oak is at the pricier end of the market, so reserved for the best outdoor furniture brands. There is also debate about whether American white oak is as sturdy as English or European Oak, however, properly cared for, American white oak outdoor furniture should last for decades. It also has a paler tone than some other timbers and an attractive grain pattern.

"American white oak is a hardwood with a tight grain structure, which makes it resistant to impacts, wear, and physical damage," says Noëllie Sherrer, co-founder of Mojo Boutique. "This durability is crucial for outdoor furniture that must withstand the elements, including wind, rain, and sun exposure.

"In addition to its strength, American white oak has a natural resistance to rot and decay, thanks to its high tannin content. Tannins are natural compounds found in the wood that help prevent fungal growth and deter insects. This makes American white oak particularly useful in humid or damp environments where other woods might suffer from rot or insect damage.

"However, outdoor furniture made from American white oak generally requires treatment to enhance its longevity and maintain its aesthetic appeal. Applying a high-quality outdoor wood oil, stain, or sealant is recommended to protect the wood from moisture penetration, UV rays, and potential fungal growth. This is especially important in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, as untreated American white oak can absorb moisture, leading to swelling or cracking over time.

"It's advisable to store or cover American white oak furniture during the winter, particularly in regions that experience snow, freezing temperatures, or heavy rainfall. Exposure to harsh winter conditions can cause the wood to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks, warping, or surface damage.

"Using protective covers or storing the furniture in a shed or garage during the winter months will help shield it from the elements and prolong its lifespan."

FAQs

What is the most cost-effective wood for outdoor furniture?

Acacia is one of the most cost-effective timbers for outdoor furniture. Also known as wattle, acacia is generally a fast-growing tree, so it's less expensive than other types of timber. However, there are many species grown in various parts of the world, so it is difficult to standardize its characteristics.

It's less durable than teak or redwood, yet with a little care and attention (including covering or storing outdoor furniture if you live somewhere with cold, damp winters), it will provide many years of use.

What is the best waterproof wood for outdoor furniture?

Timbers with high amounts of natural protective oils, such as teak, redwood and cedar, tend to be the most popular for outdoor furniture that is waterproof, as they can withstand different types of weather

"I find teak to be the most waterproof of all wood options for outdoor furniture," says Kat Aul Cervoni, founder of Staghorn Living. "That said, some special care should be given to teak and any other wood furniture you may have outdoors to help it look its best and last longer.

"Lengthy exposure to water is the enemy of wooden outdoor furniture regardless of lumber type, so doing what you can to limit that will help your furniture look its best and last longer.

"Avoid leaving your wooden furniture out on damp grass to keep it from being overexposed to moisture. If possible, cover or store your outdoor wooden furniture in the off season to give it a break from the elements (especially in areas with snow and ice in winter).

"In general, I mostly avoid using wood furniture in outdoor spaces that are very shady and slow to dry out. An example of this would be a mossy patio in a shade garden. This type of environment is most likely to be problematic for wooden furniture."

How is durability measured for wooden outdoor furniture?

The durability of timber is measured by the Janka hardness scale. This scores the wood's resistance to wear and dents, by forcing a small steel ball into it and measuring the pounds of force required, according to each species.

The Janka hardness scale is more important if you're intending to choose timber to make outdoor furniture, or you're considering lumber for a wooden floor or as a construction material.

Most manufacturers will already have selected a timber suitable for outdoor wooden furniture. It's also not necessary for the timber to be at the top of the scale. Teak and American White Oak sit in the lower, middle of the scale yet both are popular choices for manufactures who make wooden furniture, as they are hard-wearing, long-lasting woods, yet pliable enough to work with.

"As well determining how well a wood will withstand dents, the Janka hardness scale is also useful for predicting the difficulty in nailing, screwing, sanding, or sawing a given wood species," explains Erik Meier, founder, The Wood Database.

Cleaning outdoor teak furniture may not be top of your priority list right now, yet this simple task can extend the life of expensive teak tables, chairs, sofas and more. Splashes and spills from sauces, oils, greasy food scraps or sun lotions can take their toll on teak's surface and are best dealt with as soon as possible.

It's not too late if you didn't deal with them straight away — teak is popular for its durability, as much as its beauty. Those in cooler parts of the continent may soon be storing, covering or packing up their outdoor teak furniture, and it's a good idea to give it a thorough clean before it goes into storage to save you having to restore weathered teak furniture later down the line.

Even if you intend to leave your teak furniture out during fall and winter, a good clean at the end of a busy social summer will keep it looking good. To retain the integrity of the teak and its own protective oils, while cleaning outdoor furniture, here's what experts suggest.

What you'll need

• Fine sandpaper
• White vinegar
• Teak Cleaner (optional)

1. Don't be tempted to power wash

With wood outdoor furniture, it's tempting to go for the easy option and just occasionally give it a good power wash when it's starting to look grubby. This might work for moulded plastic furniture, however, this is not a good idea with teak.

"We recommend cleaning teak furniture at least once a year," says Philip Abraham, Managing Director of Cyan Teak Furniture. "Generally, you'll need to remove dirt, grime, moss and bird droppings. Teak is low-maintenance, so you don't need to do much else to it."

"However, please don't be tempted to use a power or pressure washer on teak furniture. It will loosen joints and strip away the natural protective oils that are present in teak."

"Power washing can also cause a rough, furrowed surface that then collects water and debris," warns Kim Asner, Product Director of Country Casual Teak.

2. Remove stubborn stains by sanding

Like any other surface, it's important to wipe up spills as soon as possible. However, if any have been missed and have stained the teak, it is still possible to remove them.

"Stubborn stains can be removed by lightly sanding them with very fine sandpaper in the direction of the grain," says Philip Abraham. "Any lighter patches that appear where you sanded will gradually even out to the same color as the rest of the teak, so there's no need to be concerned."

"Don't be tempted to use wire wool," says Kim Asner. "Small flecks can lodge in the wood and will rust over time."

3. Add a splash of vinegar to soapy water

Before you begin cleaning, remove any cushions from teak outdoor sofas or sun beds and make sure anything near you can withstand any accidental splashes of water.

A bowl of warm water with a little mild biodegradable soap will suffice and is generally recommended by teak furniture experts. However, Cyan Teak Furniture's expert suggests something extra.

"A scrub down with a solution of soapy water and a splash of white vinegar is best," says Philip. "After the furniture has been scrubbed, it can be rinsed down with a hose with normal water pressure."

4. Opt for a deeper clean

Mild soapy water with a splash of vinegar will suffice if you clean your teak furniture once or twice a a year. However, if it's been a while since it's had a good scrub and it needs a deeper clean, there are specialist cleaning products that can be applied.

"If you want to help brighten weathered teak and kill off mould and mildew, you could use Teak Cleaner instead,' says Philip. "However, if you're going to use Teak Cleaner, the process is different. You'll need to cover the ground where you're working and wear eye protection and rubber gloves." You can find Teak Cleaner on Amazon.

"The furniture needs to be moistened with water first, then the teak cleaner we recommend is applied with a soft cloth. It needs to soak in for three minutes. Then you can scrub the furniture clean in the direction of the grain. After that, rinse it well with water and leave it to dry."

"We recommend covering the ground with tarp when cleaning teak with specialist cleaning products, as some can cause staining to stone, concrete or deck surfaces," says Kim Asner. "Also test the products on the underside of your teak furniture first."

5. Decide on the finish you prefer

Teak has its own protective oils within the timber, which makes it a durable timber, and is part of its appeal for outdoor furniture. Over time, teak will develop a silvery patina and 'checking', which are fine surface cracks on the timber. These characteristics are loved by many people and do not affect the integrity or quality of the wood.

However, if you prefer your teak outdoor furniture to keep its rich, warm hue, a water-based sealer can be applied, like this one from Country Casual Teak. Every teak expert we spoke to warned against using teak oil on teak furniture. So check how to restore teak outdoor furniture, before applying any sealant to the surface.

"Teak oil is not from teak trees," warns Kim. "It's linseed oil mixed with other ingredients, which are usually solvents. It's often recommended for teak furniture, but it can do more harm than good. Teak oil leaves a sticky surface and causes mold and mildew to grow. We recommend water-based sealants, which allow the wood to breathe and last longer."

Should you pressure wash teak furniture?

It was an emphatic "no" from all of the teak outdoor furniture experts we spoke with. These experts either offered professional outdoor teak furniture cleaning and restoring services, or sold high quality outdoor teak furniture and advised clients how to maintain it.

They all said it's ok to hose it down with normal water pressure, but anything higher could weaken furniture joints and strip away protective oils in the teak.

When it comes to wood outdoor furniture, there are usually two main types to choose from when you're looking at modern, stylish furniture: teak or acacia. These two woods are commonly used for outdoor furniture thanks to their durability and organic-luxe aesthetic.

"Teak and acacia are two of the most popular hardwoods used in outdoor furniture, and both are excellent choices for various reasons," says Victoria Fletcher, a senior buyer for outdoor furniture brand Garden Trading. "However, while they share similarities in durability and aesthetic appeal, each wood has distinct characteristics that might make one a better option depending on the specific needs of the user."

But which of the two is the best wood for outdoor furniture? Overall, teak is often considered better quality due to its extraordinary durability, minimal maintenance needs, and long-term value. However, Acacia offers a strong alternative for those looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much in terms of durability or aesthetics.

Here's a breakdown of their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

Teak vs Acacia: Which Wood is Best For Your Needs?

Both teak and acacia make great woods for garden furniture use, and are comparable in terms of being hardwoods that are both durable options.

"Teak is revered for its unparalleled durability, resistance to water, and natural oils that make it incredibly low maintenance," says Victoria. "Its golden-brown hue ages gracefully to a silvery-grey patina, making it a timeless choice for outdoor spaces.

"Teak's high oil content also protects it from pests and decay, ensuring longevity even in harsh weather conditions."

She continues: "Acacia, on the other hand, is celebrated for its robust strength and natural resistance to wear and tear. It can be a more affordable alternative to teak, with a warm, rich color that can vary from light brown to deep amber."

What are the Pros and Cons of Acacia?

Pros:

• Strength: Acacia is a hardwood and is a great strong wood that ranks well on the Janka Hardness scale; a tool used to measure the relative hardness of different woods. Depending on the type of acacia tree the wood is from, it can rank anywhere between 1,100 to 4,270. It is around the same hardness as teak on the scale but can, in some cases, be harder or softer.
• Weather-resistance: Acacia wood offers a good level of weather resistance, being naturally water-resistant and resistant to insect damage and rot. However, in extreme weather conditions it can warp or crack over time. Acacia is often treated with oil to boost it's UV and water resistance properties.
• Price: "Acacia is more affordable than teak, offering good value for the money," says Victoria.
• Sustainability: Acacia wood is extremely fast growing and is a renewable source, meaning it can be replanted and harvested without putting damaging pressure on the environment. It' s a sustainable wood choice for your outdoor furniture.
• Aesthetics: 'Acacia boasts rich, warm hues that can darken over time; often seen in contemporary and rustic outdoor designs," says Victoria.

Cons:

• Maintenance: "Acacia wood requires regular maintenance, including oiling to prevent cracking and drying out, especially in harsher climates," says Victoria.
• Durability: While Acacia is a durable wood and a good choice for outdoor furniture, it is not as durable as teak and is less resistant to moisture and extreme climates.

What are the Pros and Cons of Teak?

Pros:

• Strength: Teak is known for its exceptional strength, with a high Janka hardness rating (2,330).
• Weather-resistance: Teak has a very dense grain, which makes it highly resistant to moisture damage like warping or cracking. A tropical wood native to South Asia it's also naturally resistant to UV rays.
• Durability: "Teak's dense grain and natural oils make it resistant to moisture, pests, and rot, which ensures that teak furniture remains strong and looking its best for years to come," says Tanya Rechberger, King Living Design Development Manager.
• Aesthetics: Teak has a soft, golden hue that's highly sought after in modern homes. Victoria says: "It has an elegant golden-brown color that ages to a distinguished silver-gray. It's highly regarded for classic and modern outdoor settings." And Tanya adds: "Teak’s warm, golden-brown tones and fine, straight grain give it a luxurious and timeless appearance. Teak is versatile and can complement both traditional and contemporary interior designs."
• Maintenance: Teak is a low-maintenance wood choice. Victoria says: 'Teak's natural oils protect it from moisture and pests, requiring less frequent oiling or staining." And Tanya adds: "Teak requires minimal maintenance if you appreciate the natural patina it develops over time. It's as simple as sweeping with a soft hand brush and cleaning with mild (pH-neutral) soapy water and a microfiber cloth or sponge."

Cons:

• Price: "Teak can be more expensive than other hardwoods due to its superior qualities and time for the trees to mature," explains Tanya Rechberger. "However, its durability and long-lasting nature often justify the higher cost, especially for those looking for furniture that will stand the test of time." And Victoria Harding agrees, adding: "Teak has high-end and premium pricing, reflecting its durability and longevity."
• Sustainability: There has historically been issues with illegal logging of teak, and it is a slower growing tree than acacia. Always make sure your teak comes from FSC-certified or SVLK-certified sources.

Conclusion

'When deciding between teak and acacia, the best choice depends on your priorities," says Victoria. "If you value longevity, low maintenance, and a classic aesthetic, teak is the clear winner. Its ability to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep makes it a long-term investment that can enhance any outdoor space."

She adds: "However, if budget-friendly and sustainable is your primary concern, acacia is an excellent alternative. While it may require more frequent maintenance, its strength and aesthetic appeal make it a compelling option for those who want quality outdoor furniture without the higher cost."

It's also a good idea to consider your climate. If you deal with extreme or harsh weather, teak's durability will win out and ensure you're making a good long-term investment.

After a long, hot summer, you may want to know how to restore weathered teak outdoor furniture. Sunshine, showers and spills may have left their mark on your teak furniture, particularly when it's outside for extended periods. Yet it doesn't take much effort to bring this timber back to glory.

Teak wood furniture is popular for its rich, warm hues–and its durability. However, teak is an exotic timber, with a teak tree taking 35-50 years to mature, so it's a precious resource and it's pricey. No matter your budget, caring for teak furniture is important.

Many people like their teak outdoor furniture to have a weathered gray patina, which has different kind of beauty. Whether you prefer teak's original warm tones or its charming silvery patina, it requires some care and may need some restoration at the end of the summer season.

Follow this simple four step process ahead to keep your teak outdoor furniture in tip top condition.

1. Clean your teak furniture

Before restoring your furniture or coating in with any sealants it needs to be clean. Dirt, dust or unnoticed spillages need to be removed, whether you want to restore your teak's original tone or retain its patina.

Therefore, the first step in the process is knowing how to clean teak outdoor furniture — and believe it or not, there are right and wrong ways.

Drew Isaacman, founder of Teak and Deck Professionals based in California tells us to avoid power washing teak outdoor furniture. "The high-pressure of the water may damage the wood and strip away its natural oils," says Drew.

"We suggest rinsing teak furniture with a hose, then using mild, soapy, warm water with a soft brush or rag, to scrub the surface, working in small sections. Once your furniture has been scrubbed, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Then leave it to air dry fully, before continuing to the next step."

"Two tablespoons of mild dish soap with a gallon of water will do the job," says Kim Asner, Product Director," Country Casual Teak. "However, there are specialist teak cleaning products, if your furniture requires a more intense clean.

"Lay down tarp first and place your furniture on it, as these teak cleaners can stain porous surfaces such as stone or concrete. You'll need to wear gloves and eye protection too."

It's a good idea to clean it as a way to prepare your outdoor furniture for winter, before storing it away.

2. Check for any damage

Hopefully, your teak outdoor furniture is still in good working order. However, check to see if it requires any minor–or even major–repairs.

"Teak is durable but it's not indestructible," says Drew. "Minor damage, such as fine cracks, can be repaired with wood filler, which you apply, allow to dry, then sand the area. More significant damage like missing seat slats or a cracked leg will need replacing. These replacement parts can usually be found at a hardware store."

"Teak wood develops small cracks known as 'checking'," explains Philip Abraham, Managing Director of Cyan Teak Furniture. "These are part of teak's unique character and do not compromise the structural integrity of the furniture. If you prefer to fill them, use teak-specific fillers. However, many people appreciate teak's natural character including the checking."

3. Sand your furniture

Once your teak furniture is clean and dry, and any repairs required have been carried out, the next step is sanding. Always start with a fine grit sand paper. However, you can skip this step if you want to keep your teak furniture's gray patina.

"A light sanding with 220 grit paper will remove any rough fibers, if your teak feels rough to the touch after cleaning," says Kim Asner. "Always sand in the direction of the grain, to avoid 'scratching' the teak."

"If you want to remove the gray patina, you'll need a medium to course grit sandpaper," says Drew. "But start with a low grade sandpaper and work your way up as required. I'd avoid power sanders, as they can damage the wood."

"Once you've sanded away the gray, the original color of the timber should be revealed. However, it may still be rough, so you may want to continue to sand with fine sandpaper until it is smooth.

"Remove the dust with a handheld vacuum or a soft brush, then wipe your furniture down and let it dry again."

4. Use water-based sealants or protectors

The teak experts we spoke to strongly advise against using teak oils, or any type of oil for that matter, on teak furniture. This is because teak timber contains its own natural protective oils and applying other oils can do more harm than good.

"Teak, Linseed, Tung and Danish oils destroy teak's naturally occurring oils," says Philip. "Once you start oiling teak furniture, you have to continue to do so. It may color unevenly as it ages and attract mildew growth.

"We recommend avoiding polishes, oils and varnishes on teak furniture. It's difficult for them to adhere to teak, so they will eventually flake or peel."

However, if you'd like to protect your teak outdoor furniture from food and wine spills or from algae, all of the teak experts we spoke to suggest applying water-based sealers and/or protectors.

These water-based coatings are generally applied to teak outdoor furniture with a soft brush or cloth and left to dry. However, follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying them.

"We recommend using water-based sealers, as they preserve the color of the wood and prevent stains or mold," says Kim. "It's always best to test any sealer on a small, hidden part of your furniture before you apply it and wipe up any drips as you go.

"Any sealer will wear away with time and will need to be touched up or reapplied every one to two years."

How do you make teak look new again?

Following the steps outlined above will bring teak outdoor furniture back to its original color and finish. To recap, clean the furniture first, allow it to dry, then sand it in the direction of the grain and remove the dust.

Once clean and dry, apply a water-based sealant or water-based protector to your furniture, following the manufacturer's instructions.

All the teak furniture experts warned not to power wash teak outdoor furniture or apply teak oil, as these processes can damage it.

The warmer months are the key seasons during which we retire outdoors for a meal al fresco or even just to unwind after a long day. And while pergolas are often vital to this outdoor ambiance, they can also be an eyesore when left unmaintained.

You might notice that your pergola has lost its beautiful brown finish to a graying hue that automatically drains the space and makes it look unkempt. And while you might think that this change in color means it's time for a new pergola, that's simply not the case.

All it really needs is a bit of restoration. And after hearing what the professionals have to say about restoring pergolas, we have to admit that it's far easier than we thought it'd be. So if you're looking for pergola ideas but aren't in the mood to flesh out some money on a new backyard feature — here's how you can restore your graying wood pergola.

What you'll need

Most classic pergola kits come with a wood finish that perfectly aligns with most outdoor aesthetics. And the last thing you want is a patchy gray hue cloaking your gorgeous wood pergola.

According to Nick Chatzigeorgakis, sanding and refinishing the wood with protective sealants is the best way to bring a pergola back to life. "This refreshes the wood and protects it from future weathering," he says.

Aaron Brundage, Director of Operations at System Pavers, echoes Nick's call for refinishing and tells us that fresh staining is a necessary part of pergola upkeep. "Typically, when you see a pergola that has changed color over time – going from a light red to silver or gray – it’s made of cedar," says Aaron. "I recommend choosing a translucent oil-based stain for wood pergolas, as this allows the natural beauty of your wood to shine through."

Treating your pergola to a fresh coat of stain is one of the best ways to beautify your backyard. But besides staining for your wood, you'll also need a wood sander and a brush to coat the wood for total restoration. And landscaping expert Marco Picano tells us that you can also use Danish oil for a rejuvenated finish.

How to restore your graying wood pergola

Now that you have everything you need to treat your outdoor feature and turn that gray around, you're only a couple of steps away from sifting through backyard ideas to further spruce up your space. But first things first, here's how to restore your graying pergola:

Step 1: First, Aaron recommends hosing down the pergola to get rid of any buildup. "You can use warm soapy water or a mixture of bleach and water," he says. "This helps remove stains and mold, especially in hard-to-reach places."

Step 2: Once the pergola is all clean and completely dry, Marco tells us that it's time to sand. Giving your pergola a light sanding helps prepare it for staining by refreshing the grain and giving it a clean surface to bond with.

Step 3: Finally, Marco recommends applying 2-3 coats of oil or the stain, and waiting 15-30 minutes between coats. "The oil restores the wood's natural oils and protects it from UV damage, resulting in a natural matte finish," he says. And if you opt for a wood stain, follow the same approach or go off of the instructions attached to your chosen product.

After the stain has dried or the oil has set, you'll be left with a fully refurbished wood pergola that will naturally draw attention to your outdoor space.

Not only do pergolas act as a charming outdoor feature but they're also one of the best backyard shade ideas to imbibe into your home. And while severely damaged wood may call for a totally new pergola, most ones are still within the fixing state.

So if you spot graying wood on your aging pergola, give this guide a go and gift your pergola a facelift. This simple restoration technique is all you need to make your backyard look fresh for the season. And we have a feeling it'll quickly become your favorite new outdoor spot to lounge beneath.

FAQs

What's the lifespan of a wood pergola?

Aaron tells us that with regular maintenance and staining, you can expect your wooden pergola to last around 15 to 20 years.

However, he also adds that this lifespan will be dramatically reduced if you aren’t staining it or consistent with upkeep.

How often should you restore your pergola?

According to Aaron, to keep your pergola’s original color, you’ll need to apply fresh stain every two to four years. This aligns with the average wear and tear of a pergola and gives you a chance to do a deep maintenance routine regularly enough to make sure it lasts for as long as possible.

If you're looking to spruce up your backyard, then QVC's garden and outdoor living furniture is where it's at. I love all things outdoor — from outdoor rugs to cozy arm chairs and stylish umbrellas, there's so much you can do to elevate your yard.

But it can be quite a challenge to find the right pieces for a space, especially when there is so much out there to choose from. To make your shopping journey a little easier, I took the liberty of putting together a list of some of the most chic, fashionable and contemporary pieces that will certainly elevate the way your space looks and feels.

From super stylish outdoor furniture to shade and rugs — here is a list of some of my favorite outdoor designs from QVC.

Outdoor rugs

The best outdoor rugs are durable, low-maintenance and stylish. QVC has truly upped their game in this department. After browsing around, I found a few favorites that I now have my eye on and may even just add to cart.

Outdoor Side Tables

Let's talk a bit about outdoor side tables. The perfect companion for outdoor furniture, a side table can certainly elevate an area from bleak to chic. They're also great if you're looking for extra space for guests to keep their drinks on or they're even an area where you can place your plants on.

Best Outdoor Chairs

From outdoor lounge chairs to arm chairs, there are many to choose from. It's time to sit back, relax and take a look at these must-have outdoor chairs.

Best Outdoor Umbrellas

If you're in need of a break from the sun, then these patio umbrellas will most definitely keep the sun at bay. As you can see by my selection below, I am currently loving navy and white tones.

Best outdoor planters

Container gardening can be quite the treat if you've stumbled upon elegant and stylish planters to keep your leafy greens in. Why not elevate those longing backyard ideas and add these planters into your space?

FAQS

When will the QVC outdoor furniture sale take place?

There is a sale happening right now across QVC with selected items. If you're looking for the best clearance deals for garden and outdoor living — be sure to head over to the retailers website to see what they have in store.

From the Scott Living Set of 2 Metallic Finish 10" and 12" MGO Planters to the Garden Reflections Outdoor Wood Adirondack Foldable Chair, there is a selection for your every need.

And with that I say, happy shopping!

With the sun shining and the holiday season upon us, we're all getting more use of our outdoor living spaces. Whether you're dining al fresco or simply relaxing in your backyard, you're probably getting a load of good use out of your patio furniture.

But one pesky little problem that seems to ruin the fun is the unfortunate slipping and sliding of outdoor cushions. Since garden furniture is made to withstand various elements of weather, they're often made from surfaces that don't offer quite enough friction for the cushions. And let's be honest, outdoor furniture sans cushions are not always comfortable enough to zen out in.

So when we came across this clever hack to keep them in place, we jumped at the chance to get our experts to lend us some insight on whether it's worth a try. Good news, not only is it expert-approved but it's affordable too. Even the best garden furniture can sometimes do with a little help from this non-slip buy, so why not go the extra mile and save yourself the annoyance of adjustment?

Non-Slip Mats to Keep Your Outdoor Cushions in Perfect Place

The use of non-slip mats is a surefire way to keep your cushions from sliding. We've all faced that moment of annoyance when you stretch or snuggle into your spot, only to have your cushions slip out of place. It's enough to make you want to shop for replacement outdoor sofas cushions that don't slip, and since visual appeal is almost always at the forefront of design, it's important to find a solution that's as inconspicuous as it is foolproof.

These mats feature a checkerboard texture that provides enough friction for the pillows to stay in place. Additionally, since they're hidden underneath the cushion, the design of the space isn't compromised and there are no signs of visual clutter.

Real estate expert Jim Gray informs us that gardens are often the end selling point for many homes because every outdoor space can be transformed into a little oasis with the right furniture. But Jim also finds that sliding cushions can ruin the vibe completely. 'Nothing drives me crazier than when cushions won't stay put,' he says. 'It's a common frustration that can really mess up both the look and comfort of your space.'

Jim says this hack to be brilliant because it's easy, affordable, and super effective. 'You can find these mats in various sizes, and they can be cut to fit your furniture perfectly,' he notes. 'Just pop one under your cushions, and you'll notice a huge difference in how tidy and comfortable your seating area feels.'

Landscape designer Katherine Aul Cervoni also finds that this ingenious cushion trick solves a common problem efficiently. 'Using a non-slip liner to keep your outdoor (and indoor) cushions in place is an amazing and inexpensive hack,' she says. 'While it won't work for backrests, it is an effective way to keep seat cushions from slipping around.'

A zen space beyond the interior of a home is nothing without its outdoor furniture. And that includes well-placed cushions. But as Katherine mentioned, while these non-slip mats work wonders when placed below seat cushions, they don't do as good a job for back cushions. Lucky for us, she has a fabulous alternative for back cushions and they happen to be just as easy on the pocket as the mats.

'I'm a big fan of using outdoor-grade velcro on my furniture,' she reveals. 'But note that this is a more permanent option as it will likely leave a residue on the cushion if you try to remove the velcro down the road.'

Jim also appears to use velcro strips for his outdoor furniture and has found it to be a reliable solution to sliding cushions. 'Another clever little tip I swear by is velcro strips,' he says. 'Apply one side to the back of those unruly accent pillows and the other side to the sofa or chair itself.'

And that's about all you'll need to solve this pesky little problem. This non-slip mat and velcro strip combo will be an absolute game-changer for when you're lazing outside or outdoor dining.

An easy way to give your backyard a summer spruce is to swap out your cushions for new ones. So if you're looking for replacement outdoor sofa cushions to give your space a facelift, then test out this clever hack. It'll be the perfect finishing touch to your space and it'll make a world of difference.

Some stunning summer cushion buys for your outdoor spaces

If you've ever wondered how other people with perfect-looking outdoor furniture actually do it, you're not alone.

With changes in weather, garden parties, muddy dogs and messy children, there's a host of ways your modern outdoor furniture can fall prey to looking a little rough around the edges.

As outdoor living spaces become an extension of our homes, it’s important to choose quality furniture pieces that connect with your interior spaces as this will create a seamless look. While most outdoor designs are crafted to endure the elements all year round, taking extra measures and following maintenance tips will ensure your furniture remains in top-notch condition and create inviting environments.

It's not as hard as you might think to ensure your outdoor furniture stays in mint condition.

'Regular upkeep, such as applying protective coatings annually, cleaning off dirt and debris, and covering or storing the furniture during extreme weather, can significantly extend its lifespan,' advises Lauren Lerner, CEO and Founder of Scottsdale-based Living with Lolo.

Just as there are rules for buying outdoor furniture that designers always follow, so there are key ways to ensure its longevity.

See five things people with perfect-looking outdoor furniture do below...

1. Choose the right materials

It's imperative that you always choose outdoor furniture that is waterproof and weather resistant to ensure a long lifespan and easier maintenance.

'Certain woods, like teak, cedar, and redwood, are naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay, making them well-suited for outdoor use,' says Living with Lolo's Lauren Lerner.

Theresa Butler, Principal and Founder of Theresa Butler Interiors agrees that choice of material is the first step to keeping your outdoor furniture looking pristine.

She says: 'When using wood outdoor furniture, ensure it is made from wood that can withstand outdoor conditions, resist rot, and deter insects. Suitable options include hardwoods like teak and acacia, as well as softwoods like cedar and cypress.'

Adding outdoor protective products can also help with maintence.

Lauren adds: 'Treatments such as sealants, varnishes, and specialized outdoor finishes can enhance the weather resistance of wooden furniture.'

Victoria Fletcher, Senior Buyer at Garden Trading, confirms the importance of materials. She says: 'Selecting the right materials for your outdoor furniture is crucial. Acacia Wood, known for its durability, strength and weather resistance, ensures longevity for your dining set. 

'Another excellent choice is PE rattan, crafted from high-quality polyethene. It mimics natural rattan, offering durability, UV resistance, and waterproof properties. 

'Lastly, Teak, beloved by outdoor furniture enthusiasts, boasts exceptional durability, moisture resistance, and a luxurious golden hue. Its easy maintenance makes it a practical option for any outdoor sofa set.'

And, when it comes to your cushions and seating, they need to have fillings that are mold and mildrew resistant as well as boasting weather and UV-resistant covers; a material like Sunbrella is always a good investment.

2. Consider the environment

Whether you enjoy searing blasts of heat or biting frosts and heavy downfalls (or both), it's always an idea to think about your weather and how it will affect your outdoor furniture and its placement.

Having in mind the weather climate of your area when buying outdoor furniture plays a major role when it comes to the furniture’s longevity. See if the furniture you’re buying is weather-resistant. If you’re buying metal furniture, then you should be cautious about rust if you have frequent rains in summer. Or if you’re in a zone with high temperatures, consider that metal or aluminum chairs/tables can be too hot to touch or sit.

Of course, you can always add cushions to your metal furniture to mitigate this, but giving thought to your local weather system is key.

'Metals exposed to direct sunlight can become hot to the touch, so it’s best to keep metal furniture in shaded areas. While metal furniture is sturdy, adding cushions can enhance comfort,' Theresa Butler says.

'Although metal furniture can be lighter and easier to maintain, it’s important to consider your environment. In areas with heavy rainfall, metal can rust and erode. To extend the life of your metal furniture, use a furniture cover when not in use.'

3. Invest in covers for outdoor furniture 

Theresa hits on a good point - even if your outdoor furniture material is weather-resistant, to make sure it's perfect-looking every single summer it's crucial you invest in covers for protection during the colder months.

'Before making a cover purchase, consider fabric suitability,' advises Victoria Fletcher. 'Opt for covers made from weather-resistant and hardy materials as these will provide the best protection for your outdoor furniture. Choose covers from materials like polyester and vinyl, as these are UV-resistant and are known for their durability.'

4. Carry out regular cleaning

Want perfect-looking outdoor furniture? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you can't skip the cleaning step - it's an easy way to revive outdoor furniture.

'To clean your wood furniture, use a mixture of dish soap or white vinegar and water, similar to wood floors,' advises Theresa Butler.

Many types of outdoor furniture, like PE rattan and metal, can also be jet washed. Even some outdoor sofa cushions can be jet washed, depending on the material. 

It's also a good idea to spot clean your sofa cushions anytime there's a spillage or muddy paws on the seats. A damp cloth and dish soap, or uphholstery cleaner, will often do the trick. For more robust outdoor materials, a bristle brush can be used for harder-to-remove stains.

5. Think about outdoor storage

Storage solutions are a fantastic option for keeping your outdoor furniture looking tip-top. 

If you don't want to take up room inside, a storage box or chest is ideal for putting your cushions in when the rain descends.

'Adding outdoor storage to your garden or patio will allow you to easily store your cushions and seat pads,' says Victoria Fletcher. 'Selecting storage furniture crafted from heavy duty PE rattan will offer a high level of durability whilst also bringing a touch of elegance to your space.'

Finding the right outdoor furniture layout can be quite the task — especially if you have a small patio. So if you want to make the most of a limited area, it's worth taking careful consideration and listening to advice from experts.

'Having a good outdoor furniture layout helps you maximize the use of your space,' says Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder of Staghorn NYC and The Cultivation by Kat. 'It improves functionality and overall can lead you to use the space more efficiently and more frequently. First, ask yourself, what do I want to use the space for? For example, do you see yourself grilling, dining or lounging and hanging out?'

With that in mind, here are 5 outdoor furniture layout plans from landscape designers that will help enhance your patio ideas for the summer season.

1. L-shaped sectional with coffee table and lounge chairs

L-shaped sectionals aren't just for large lounge areas. New York-based landscape designer, Kat Aul Cervoni has successfully used one in a layout on a compact Park Avenue roof terrace. If you're looking for the best outdoor furniture for small spaces, then an elegant configuration with L shaped lounge chairs would work just as well on a small patio.

'For lounge-focused outside spaces, I like using an L-shaped sectional sofa, especially to nestle into an otherwise tricky corner space,' says Kat. 'This pairs well with a generous coffee table and if space allows, one or two lounge chairs. If there is enough space, I’ll opt for arm chairs from the same collection as the sofa for continuity. Other times, I like going with chairs that complement the sofa but aren't identical. The aim with the Park Avenue project was to strike a balance between airiness and privacy, so the lounge area and dining area are connected via a corridor of plantings, which include ornamental grasses, flowering perennials and evergreen shrubs.'

'When designing a small outdoor space, I love using L-shaped sofas too,' says New York-based landscape designer, Amber Freda. 'They can take the place of chaise lounges, since you can easily just put your feet up on the sofa or on ottomans, instead. Chaise lounges are a pretty inefficient use of space for a small patio because they take up so much room and don’t work for entertaining guests.'

2. Love seat with small tables and chairs

It's not just the size of a small patio that can make it tricky to furnish, the shape and orientation will impact the layout too. So as you start to think about your Modern small patio ideas, keep these details in mind.

'Oftentimes I find that apartments and condos are built with narrow, rectangular patio and balcony spaces that can feel tricky to find the right layout for,' says Kat Aul Cervoni. 'One of my go-to layouts to maximize these spaces is to use a loveseat at one end that faces out with a small coffee table in front as a lounge area. Then a bistro table with two chairs opposite this for dining. Fermob has excellent space-savvy and chic options for furnishing small outdoor spaces.'

3. Cozy bistro nook

In a super-small outdoor living space where there isn't room for separate lounge and dining areas, look for flexible furniture that can double up for both activities. 'For extra small spaces that are only going to allow for one set of furnishings, I like using two chairs that feel like extra-comfy dining end chairs or two extra lean armchairs combined with a slightly taller than usual coffee table, or a small (24”-30” diameter) round café table,' says Kat. 'The idea here is that the space can work for casual dining or lounging - totally flexible and chic.'

Nina Lichtenstein, founder and principal designer, Custom Home Design by Nina Lichtenstein, tells us: 'On a small patio, a bistro set is a quintessential choice that combines style and functionality. If space is really tight, opt for a round, foldable bistro table paired with two slender, armless chairs. Place the table against one side of the patio, ideally near a wall or railing, to open up the central area and maintain a spacious feel.

Nina continues: 'This layout not only provides a delightful spot for morning coffee or evening drinks but also allows for easy movement around the patio. To enhance the cozy ambiance, add a small, vertical garden or wall-mounted planters nearby, bringing greenery without encroaching on floor space. String lights or a compact outdoor lantern can further elevate the atmosphere, creating a warm and inviting nook perfect for intimate gatherings.'

4. Dine and lounge combo 

It is possible to include separate lounging and dining areas even on a small patio if you're savvy with space and choose flexible furnishings. A lounge and dine combo is one of Nina Lichtenstein's preferred go-to.

She tells us: 'An excellent layout for a small patio is the lounge and dine combo, which merges relaxation with functionality. Start with a compact, rectangular dining table with a bench on one side and two stackable chairs on the other. Position the table along one edge of the patio, leaving enough room for easy access. Opposite the dining area, place a small outdoor loveseat or a pair of cushioned chairs, with a petite coffee table in between'.

Nina notes that this arrangement 'creates distinct zones for dining and lounging, maximizing the use of space without feeling cramped. Choose multi-functional furniture, like a bench with storage and stackable chairs, to keep the area tidy and versatile. Adding a vibrant outdoor rug and a few decorative pillows can tie the space together, making it both practical and aesthetically pleasing,' Nina adds.

Amber Freda says rectangular tables also work well for small spaces, adding: 'Rectangular tables that can extend also work well for small spaces where you want the flexibility of going from four or six person seating up to eight or ten person seating for a special occasion.'

5. Square configuration with sofa opposite two lounge chairs

A square layout looks smart and can maximize a petite patio, particularly when the look is pulled together with some of the best outdoor rugs and coordinating accessories. If space allows add a firepit, a parasol and planters.

'A compact sofa with a pair of armchairs opposite and a coffee table in between is also a great way to seat people comfortably in a small outdoor space,' says Amber Freda. 'The benefit of this arrangement over an L-shaped sofa is that people can have their own space more. It also allows the flexibility of being able to move the armchairs to the sides of the table or elsewhere on the patio, when needed.'

New York-based landscape designer, Jonathan Fargion says:'There is also the classic two sofas in front of each other (2 or 3 seater), and either 2 or 4 armchairs to close the square, with a coffee table in the middle and a few side tables for the armchair, depending on the size of the space. I prefer to use metal furniture, it's weather resistant and typically easy to move as it is fairly light. It's also fun to be able to play with fabric, if you can custom order that, or just play with a series of throw pillows (and throw blanket for the fall) which add a lot of character and can transform the most typical sofa into something more special.'

'I tend to avoid a sectional sofa outside as it feels very "interior" like rather than garden-like and it is very bulky and hard to move if you have to store it during the winter time,' cautions Jonathan. 'And remember, all furniture should have at least a winter cover.'

Our top 3 outdoor furniture picks

When it’s hot, we want ease: light sundresses, wind-swept hair, and zero unnecessary fuss. That same sensibility extends to the backyard, which is exactly why, once temps hit a certain threshold, Livingetc starts craving rattan outdoor furniture about as much as an ice-cold margarita on a sweltering afternoon. (And that’s saying something.)

“It’s a classic,” says Ashton Jones, director of assortment and product development at Blu Dot. “Rattan carries a global, collected feel — coastal, tropical, and bohemian influences all at once.” Which explains why, even when it’s trending, this outdoor furniture never really goes out of style.

Right now, Blu Dot's Ashton Jones says rattan outdoor furniture trends for 2025 hinge on the two Cs: curves and comfort. Think sculptural silhouettes with plush, oversized cushions — a modern riff on rattan's Riviera leisure roots. “The result is a space that feels relaxed yet refined,” she says. “Like a page out of White Lotus” — even in January.

Ahead, a curated list of standout rattan outdoor furniture pieces — from rattan outdoor chairs to full rattan outdoor furniture sets — each one vetted for style, quality, and glowing reviews. Because summer should feel effortless. So should the furniture.

Rattan Outdoor Chairs

Rattan Outdoor Sofas

Rattan Outdoor Tables

Rattan Outdoor Furniture Sets

FAQs

Can rattan furniture be left outdoors year-round?

Untreated, natural rattan “should not be left outdoors all year long,” advises Blu Dot’s Ashton Jones. “It’s a plant-based material and is sensitive to moisture, sunlight, and temperature changes — it can crack, fade, or grow mold if exposed to the elements for extended periods.”

Which is exactly why all the “rattan” furniture featured above isn’t actually rattan — not technically. The term has stuck, but what you’re seeing is typically a synthetic designed to mimic the look, also known as resin wicker. And that, Ashton notes, “can be left outside year-round, if it’s high quality.”

These synthetic options “are designed to withstand sun, rain, and even snow, especially when paired with rust-proof frames like aluminum,” she says. “That said, even synthetic rattan will last longer if protected during harsh weather — like using furniture covers or storing it during winter.”

Why choose rattan over wood, plastic, or metal?

“Synthetic rattan, when done well, is a standout choice for outdoor furniture,” says Ashton. “It holds up beautifully to the elements over time, resisting fading, cracking, and moisture” — qualities that can’t always be said for high-maintenance materials like teak, which may require regular oiling and upkeep.

“It doesn’t get hot in the sun or rust in damp conditions,” she adds. “And beyond its durability, it brings a natural warmth and texture that makes outdoor spaces feel just as inviting and layered as interiors. It’s practical, low-maintenance, and stylish — everything outdoor living should be.”

Wait — what’s the difference between rattan and wicker?

It’s the age-old sparkling wine vs. Champagne debate. “Rattan is the material — a natural vine used to make furniture — while wicker is the weaving technique,” Ashton explains. “Rattan furniture can be wicker, but not all wicker furniture is made from rattan.”

It’s a little confusing, sure — but all you really need to know is this: if it’s in this edit, it’s rattan. (Or “rattan,” now that you know.)

Once you’ve secured the rattan setup, don’t forget the finishing touch: shade. Complete the look (and protect your chic new furniture) with a pick from our edit of the best patio umbrellas.

While there are a number of rules for buying outdoor furniture that designers suggest you do stick to, there are also a few so-called rules to break for a space that offers depth and visual interest.

Interior designers suggest it's a good idea to flout rules that may actually hinder the final aesthetic, including the idea that everything needs to match or come from the same store to be cohesive; as long as the pieces are in the same tonal family, the outdoor living room will feel curated and harmonious.

'When it comes to modern outdoor furniture, many traditional "rules" can limit your creativity and the functionality of your space,' says Helen Pett, Design Ambassador for Arteriors. 'Breaking these conventions creates outdoor living areas that are both stylish and practical.'

Outdoor Furniture Rules to Break, According to Experts

You might want to start with the rules for buying outdoor furniture that our experts do recommend, but if you're unsure how to differentiate fact from fiction as to what you can use outside, we're busting the myths.

From materials you thought you should avoid to size and styling guidelines, we tapped top designers and buyers to give us the lowdown on the outdoor furniture rules you can actually flout. Go on, be a rebel.

1. You Should Avoid Wooden Furniture in the Garden

While some woods are not suited for outdoor living rooms, not all woods should be tarred with the same brush.

'It's true that some soft woods may not be ideal for outdoor use, but hardwoods like acacia and teak are excellent choices,' explains Helen Pett. 'These woods are durable and weather well over time. They may develop a natural patina, adding to their charm. Regular maintenance, such as annual oiling or staining, can help maintain their appearance and longevity.'

Lauren Lerner, CEO and Founder of Arizona-based Living with Lolo, agrees wood is often a good choice, commenting: 'Certain woods, like teak, cedar, and redwood, are naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay, making them well-suited for outdoor use.'

Using wood outdoor furniture can help to create a modern yet rustic-luxe vibe, with an inviting, organic aesthetic.

'Wood makes an excellent material for outdoor furniture, especially woods like teak and eucalyptus that can add warmth to your space, age well in the sun and hold up in all weather conditions,' comments Sebastian Brauer, SVP of Product Design, Crate & Barrel.

2. You Should Avoid Metal as it Gets too Hot

'Metal outdoor furniture can indeed get hot in direct sunlight, but this can be easily mitigated,' says Helen Pett. 'Placing your outdoor set in shaded areas or using umbrellas can prevent overheating. Additionally, cushions and throws can provide a barrier between the metal and your skin, ensuring comfort even on sunny days.'

Lauren Lerner agrees that shade is the ideal solution here. And if you fancy soaking up some rays, make sure to pop a cushion onto your metal dining chair or lounge chair.

She says: 'If the metal furniture is placed in a shaded area, it is much less likely to become excessively hot and uncomfortable.

'Additionally, using cushions and seat pads can provide a barrier between the metal surface and the user, making the furniture comfortable to use even in warmer weather. Choosing metals like aluminum, which heats up less than other metals, can also help.'

3. Your Outdoor Set has to Reflect the House Exterior

'A modern outdoor furniture set can create a striking contrast against a traditional home, highlighting architectural details and adding sophistication, while traditional furniture can soften and add warmth to a modern home,' explains Lauren Lerner. 

'Extending the interior design theme outdoors can create a seamless flow, reflecting personal style and ensuring comfort and inspiration. The surrounding landscape might also influence furniture choices more than the house exterior, creating a harmonious outdoor experience. 

'Practical considerations like seasonal changes, availability, and budget can also dictate furniture choices, prioritizing personal preference and practicality over strict adherence to design rules.'

Theresa Butler agrees that your outdoor living room doesn't have to match your home's exterior. She comments: 'A traditional home can have a modern outdoor space and vice versa. Unless you have an indoor/outdoor area, where continuity might be desired, your outdoor space doesn’t need to reflect your interior style, either. 

'Whether you envision an edible garden with seating or an entertainment oasis, the purpose of your outdoor space will guide its design. Remember, while you can control the interior, the exterior is defined by your available space and the open sky. How you choose to embrace your exterior space is completely your decision.'

4. Your Outdoor Furniture All has to Match

An outdoor dining set or sofa set can definitely look sleek and stylish but don't feel like you have to invest in the entire collection. Mix and match for a look that's cohesive yet interesting.

If you buy a teak outdoor sofa set, why not pair it with accent lounge chairs in the same tone but a different style? Beautiful bamboo or rattan chairs can add a soft touch sitting next to a teak outdoor sofa, for example (as seen below).

Try adding warmth to a concrete outdoor dining table with wood or rattan chairs, as seen above. Or pair a concrete coffee table with rattan or teak chairs and sofas.

Ultimately, the design should follow your personal preference. 'When it comes to outdoor furniture I feel you can go either way,' says Theresa Butler. 

'Like the interior, your exterior spaces should reflect your preferred style. If you like a more whimsical, Alice in Wonderland-inspired outdoor space, use furniture that does not match. Opt for matching furniture for a more cohesive look with a focal point.'

5. Sectionals are too Large for a Small Backyard

Just as you can put a big couch in a small living room, so you can also place a sectional in a small backyard for a cozy, inviting feel.

'Smaller outdoor spaces can be transformed with more than just compact, metal furniture,' says Crate & Barrel's Sebastian Brauer.

Interior designer Lisa Sherry is a proponent of the big couches in small spaces vibe. ‘Large or small, a beautiful room is about balancing scale and proportion, and that doesn’t mean big rooms get big sofas and smaller rooms get Lilliputian sofas,' she says. 'When thoughtfully imagined, a larger sofa in a more modest space feels cozy, comfortable, a just-right fit. The living room sofa also becomes the focal point of the room. And, surprisingly, a few large-scale pieces can make the space feel larger.' The same theory can be true of your small patio.

Victoria Fletcher, Senior Buyer at Garden Trading, agrees, commenting: 'Compact sectionals or modular furniture can be ideal for small gardens or patios. They offer flexible seating arrangements that maximize space without overwhelming it, making it cozy and functional.'

And Theresa Butler says it should simply be down to personal preference and how you use the space, adding: 'It all depends on what you envision for your outdoor space. Start by measuring the area to determine the square footage. Then, decide how you want to use your small garden or patio. 

'For an intimate, cozy gathering space where a sectional is too large, consider a love seat or a three-seat sofa. If you want to create the illusion of more space, opt for chairs. 

'For a patio or small garden intended for relaxation, a small cushioned bench with a side table works well. With accurate measurements and a bit of creativity, there are many ways to maximize your space.'

6. Outdoor Furniture has to Cost a Small Fortune

Good quality outdoor furniture crafted in durable, hardwearing materials will always be a good investment. However, there are certainly some options that blend form and function with a more affordable price point. The best outdoor furniture stores includes a range of options for a smaller, including the likes of Target and CB2.

An interior designer's tip? 'Checking your local home decor stores, such as HomeGoods or At Home, or hardware stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot, can be a cost-effective way to find outdoor furniture,' suggests Theresa Butler.

'Read reviews when available, as appearance doesn’t always equate to durability. If you’re going to splurge, invest in the items you will use the most. For example, if you enjoy hosting, consider a high-quality grill or sound system. 

'If you need a pergola, research your options and decide whether to build one or buy one. If your outdoor space will be a retreat for reading and relaxation, find a sofa or swing chair that you love.'

Can furniture be left outside all year?

If you don't have storage space indoors, or haven't invested in covers, the garden furniture you can leave outside all year includes any crafted with teak, powder-coated aluminium, PE wicker and synthetic rattan.

However, experts and designers always suggest to keep your outdoor furniture covered during winter to keep it in the best possible condition and prolong its lifespan - and your investment.

As the summer season begins to peek through, we know how important it is to replenish your outdoor furniture. But this time, let's try giving back to the earth, rather than taking from it. Recycling is a great way of putting a stop to disposing materials in landfills which releases toxins and greenhouse gases — therefore heavily fuelling the climate crisis.

So, how exactly do we give back to the planet? Well, a good place to start would be to invest in sustainable home decor brands. If you are looking for the trendy outdoor furniture ideas, try opting for recycled materials. Not only does it help the environment by reducing waste and carbon emissions, but it is also rot-free, weather resistant and insect resistant. And don’t you worry, recycled furniture is more beautiful than you might think!

From unique shapes and shades, there are many eco-friendly brands to choose from that will match your yard's aesthetic. We spoke to a few designers about their outdoor furniture designs and this is what they had to say about it.

What is recycled plastic outdoor furniture made from?

Not every type of recycled, recyclable or sustainable outdoor furniture made from plastics is the same, and as well as a history of designs made from recycled plastic, there are new and exciting material trends you need to know.

Shawn Zar, an Interior Designer and Furniture Expert at Superior Seating, tell us, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Polypropylene (PP) are both great for recycled outdoor furniture.

He says HDPE is known for being robust and weather resistance, which makes it 'ideal for durable furniture that needs to withstand the elements'. As for PP, Shawn says it is known to be light and easily to moldable, 'which is great for creating more dynamic and versatile furniture designs'.

Lindsay Schleis from Polywood says the benefits of HDPE are many. She says: 'furniture made from recycled HDPE plastics are that it is weather-resistant in all climates, it’s easy to clean and maintain, and it’s extremely durable'.

'Unlike traditional wood furniture that can rot and splinter or certain metals that are prone to rust, these materials are resistant to the elements. Making furniture from recycled material also lessens the impact of deforestation that traditional wood may contribute to,' she adds.

Why is recycled plastic outdoor furniture trending?

'It's not necessarily a new trend, but one we're seeing more mainstream,' Brian King, from outdoor furniture brand Loll Designs, which is manufactured in the US, says. 'Having a product that is made from partially recycled plastic that can, in turn, be recycled at the end of it's life, is something that consumers are more conscious of as we all try to limit our environmental footprint'.

'Our products are made partially from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE), one of the most recyclable plastics. Since HDPE is an incredibly durable plastic, Loll products are made to be long-lasting and can be left outdoors year-round, for many years,' Brian tells us.

Polywood created the first all-weather proof furniture using recycled plastics, in the US. Lindsay Schleis, resident interior design expert says that the brand 'recycles millions of landfill-bound and ocean-bound plastic containers every year'.

To do this, they use a 'mix of local, regional, and globally sourced post-consumer plastic at our recycling center'. Additionally, Lindsay says, 'Polywood lumber itself is infinitely reusable, so scrap from our production floor gets reintroduced into the beginning of the recycling process and made back into lumber for a more sustainable circular production process'.

Danish brand Mater has unveiled its new Alder Collection, created in collaboration with renowned Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Aside from its chic appeal, the brand has developed two versions of this collection — which both play a part in encapsulating recycled outdoor furniture. One is made with a blend of coffee waste and biodegradable plastic, and the other utilizing various wood fibres and biodegradable plastic.

The colors in the collection profoundly capture the essence of nature and earth, with its gray, green, orange and white tones. 'We strive to push the boundaries of traditional furniture production and its more sustainable journey into the future,' Ketil Årdal, CEO of Mater, tells us. 'Our planet’s resources are not infinite, and we need to rethink antiquated ways of production now. Biodegradable plastic, in this case sugar cane, is a rapidly renewable source that can be harvested 1-2 times a year. It naturally absorbs carbon dioxide while growing and can be decomposed by living organisms in the same way as wood or any other natural material.'

How should I style recycled outdoor furniture?

Ketil says you should style recycled outdoor furniture, the same way you would with any other outdoor furniture. He says: 'One of our key values is that we want to design furniture from recycled materials. We want to show the design industry and the end consumers that using recycled materials doesn’t necessarily mean compromising design aesthetics'.

Lindsay Schleis, resident interior design expert at Polywood tells us that styling is down to space and aesthetic. She adds: 'Most recycled outdoor furniture is made to look like traditionally manufactured furniture so styling tips would be the same and dependent on factors like how large your space is, how many people you plan to entertain, how you’ll be using the space, what design style and aesthetic you’re drawn to'.

She continues: 'If sustainability and nature are important to you (as they are with most folks seeking furniture made of recycled material) blend natural elements like native plants, stone features, and responsibly-sourced wood fixtures into your outdoor space. Comfort and functionality are key and you can get more experimental with outdoor spaces than you might feel comfortable in say an indoor dining room. So have fun with colors, accents, pillows, fabrics'.

Zero-waste designs

FN furniture based in Oregon, crafts recycled outdoor furniture made from 100% recycled HDPE, that has quite a unique flare to it. Its sleek box like designs that capture the essence of nature, while bringing comfort to your outdoor living space.

Ken R Landauer, designer and chairperson at FN furniture explains the process of creating such designs. He says: 'Local Plastic gathers landfill-bound plastics, cleans, sorts, then grinds it into pellets. Then, with heat and pressure, they form them into beautiful 4 x 8‘ sheets. FN furniture gets the sheets cut by CNC (a Computer Numerically Controlled router). The zero-wasted designs enable us to get two rockers, or seven stool tables from each 4x8 ft sheet. Then we refine them in the shop and deliver them'.

Local Plastic, who are part of recycling firm Precious Plastic, strive to collect plastic and turn it into products which will benefit the community and planet. Ken says: 'This recycled material is exceptional. In some ways, it begins as less than nothing, because it’s headed to take up landfill space indefinitely. Instead, Local Plastic gathers it and makes it into beautiful, colorful sheets. It will not rot like wood. Then we make it into elegant simple, body-fit, durable furniture, with few parts to break or fasteners to fail and almost no waste, to be enjoyed for decades. We spend so much time, effort and money on our landscapes, and so much time enjoying them, it makes sense to add only durable, handsome, comfortable furniture'.

As for Ken's favorite piece from FN furniture, he says: 'I’m really proud of the F2 rocker which I created because a good rocker is hard to find. First, it’s deceptively comfortable. The motion and sitting angle I copied from my father-in-law‘s favorite rocker. He spent enough time in rockers to qualify as the expert! The rest of the design was shaped by simplicity and zero waste, so the curves on the front and under the arms are the counter-curves from the base. Thirdly, it’s super durable, because the recycled plastic is formidable outside, often made for the extreme conditions of marine use, and secondly, with only nine parts that slot together, the rockers won’t fail'.

Patio season is in full swing with everyone and their neighbors dusting off their backyards and getting them in shape for summer soirees. When it comes to outdoor furniture materials, chic teak furniture has been a mainstay in patios for many seasons, but does it still have designers' respect in 2024?

We wanted to pinpoint the exact reasons behind this rustic wood-borne renaissance and whether the trend is set to continue into this summer and beyond. To find out more, we spoke to a couple of designers who've given us their two cents on this outdoor furniture trend. Let's find out if we need to add teak to our cart or ditch it from our wishlist.

Is teak furniture in for patios in 2024?

Tony Peng, managing director at OASIQ, tells us that teak furniture has always had major staying power in the realm of modern outdoor furniture, but confirms that it’s more popular than ever these days. 'Due to its weather-resistant nature, it's impervious to moisture and pests which prevents it from mildewing with harsh weather and it also has UV-resistant qualities,' notes Tony. 'In addition, teak is extremely low maintenance since it's full of natural oils designed to protect it. So for outdoor furniture, investing in strong, durable materials like teak is essential.'

Tony goes on to point out that the resurgence of teak can also be attributed to a more widespread understanding and interest in how sustainable design can create a positive impact on our climate, environment, and homes. 'Most teak, especially the teak we use, is a renewable resource,' says Tony. 'It’s also the most long-lasting, resilient wood that can be made into furniture.' He explains that teak designs need minimal to no care and can last decades, thereby eliminating the need to replace your outdoor furniture suite setup every few years.

And Tony isn't alone in his love for teak's timeless appeal. Landscape designer Katherine Aul Cervoni tells us that she has also found a peak in the popularity of teak patio furniture. 'It works well in a variety of styles but is particularly on-trend with the California Modern aesthetic which champions natural materials, neutral colors, and clean lines with a hint of rustic naturalism,' notes Katherine.

How should you style teak patio furniture?

When it comes to styling your teak furniture, Tony tells us that teak’s charming aesthetic offers an easy elegance that can be paired with a variety of design styles. 'It’s truly hard to go wrong with teak,' says Tony. 'It can be paired with black or white for a more standard, classic appeal, or it can be complemented with pastel hues, vibrant colors, and even patterns.' He adds that this tropical hardwood works especially well in minimalistic backyards.

According to Katherine, teak furniture pieces flawlessly balance out stone, brick, and tile work in an outdoor space since they add a touch of soft warmth to the space. Depending on your patio's overarching aesthetic, she recommends styling teak furniture with planters made of fiberglass, glazed ceramic, or steel. She also suggests using solid, neutral-toned cushions to allow the textured wood to shine through.

Well, you heard the experts, teak is back and better than ever. And we can't say we're surprised. The chic finish along with the unique graining that comes with each piece makes it an elegantly unique addition to any patio. So if you have any teak pieces that you've retired to your attic, it's time to bring them out or if you're looking to buy some fresh outdoor additions, consider contemporary teak designs for the perfect modern garden setting. Then all that's left to do is sit back and watch as the compliments flood in at your next al fresco dining experience.

When it comes to outdoor furniture ideas for small spaces, every decision counts. Whether it's your choice of material, silhouette, size, shape, or color — being able to design a space you'll actually want to spend time in often comes down to the select pieces you choose to furnish it with.

Yes, the chair may look cool, but is it going to make you feel cramped when you squeeze it into that tight corner? Likewise, a table may be able to fit all your friends and family around it... but will it actually fit in your small outdoor space?

So, to help you find the best garden furniture for small spaces, tight corners, awkwardly-shaped nooks, and barely-there balconies, we've listed the ideas to keep in mind while shopping for your small garden (with help from experts, of course) below.

1. Bigger Can Sometimes Be Better

Small space means small furniture, right? Not always. Believe it or not, sometimes you're better off getting one larger garden sofa to seat everyone, rather than multiple individual chairs.

That's because lots of furniture makes a small space feel cluttered quickly, whereas one sleek piece, although it may take up more room than a single chair, will feel more streamlined.

What's important, though, is ensuring that the size of your outdoor furniture for a small space makes sense. "Better yet, modular pieces like stackable seats or nest tables bring flexibility to the equation," says Andy Wu, an outdoor living expert and the founder of Backyard Oasis. "You can reposition them to your requirements or store them when you want to open up space. It's about finding a balance between form and function, with your furniture complementing the space, not fighting against it."

2. Rather Than Size, Focus on Shape

While of course finding furniture that fits the size of your space is important, Andy notes that choosing the best shape is often more critical.

"Boxed-out, angular furniture with hard edges cuts up a small space in a way that creates a sense of claustrophobia and fragmentation," he explains. "But rounded-corner, low-profile, and minimal-line furnishings, such as a round bistro table or a chair with a rounded back, are open and accessible."

It's often the little details that make the biggest difference, too. "I recommend choosing furnishings with tapered legs or open framework so that light can travel through, extending that sense of space," Andy adds. "Not only are such shapes practical but they also trick the eye into seeing more space than there actually is, making them an all-out space-saver for smaller outdoor areas."

3. Don't Forget to Look Up

When space is at a premium, as it is when it comes to most outdoor furniture ideas for small spaces, don't just look at what you've got in front of you — look up, too.

That means finding furniture pieces that are potentially taller and slimmer. Bar tables that encourage people to stand around them, bar seats you can style along a floating counter rather than a large table, hanging chairs and swing seats suspended from above to save floorspace...

“Using height is one of my favorite ways to create the illusion of more room," says Chloe Barrow, interiors expert at Laura James. "In small gardens, it’s about making use of tall surfaces, such as fences, walls, railings, and even ceilings if you have an overhang."

That could mean hanging string lights or trailing plants from a pergola to draw the eye upward and make the space feel more expansive, she says. Or "Even something simple like attaching lanterns to a tall trellis can shift the focus and give your garden vertical character."

4. Swap a Dining Table for a Bar Area

And part of that may also mean swapping a long dining table for a bar area in order to make the most of your compact space, rather than sticking with the classic garden table and chairs option.

"Bar tables take up less floor space and keep the sightlines open, which can make a small area feel more spacious," says Chloe. "They also create a relaxed, sociable vibe for events like weekend brunches or evening drinks without the bulk of traditional dining furniture."

Looking for outdoor furniture ideas for a really small space? "Taking it a space-saving step further, you can even opt for fold-down bar stools if storage is tight, or stools that fit completely underneath the bar,” adds Chloe.

5. Create Clear Zones to Avoid It Feeling Cluttered

When designing a small garden, just because space is tight, don't skip establishing separate zones. “Creating clear zones within a small outdoor space is so important for making it feel functional rather than cramped," explains Chloe Barrow.

And it can be relatively easy to do — try using an outdoor rug to signal a seating area, or styling a planter as a subtle divider between a lounging corner and the bar area, she adds.

"Creating the illusion of different ‘rooms’ outdoors will help massively," says Chloe. "It’s all about creating a sense of purpose in each part of the garden.”

6. Opt for Open, Breathable Furniture Styles

Did you know that the material your outdoor furniture is made of can actually contribute to how big it looks?

“Woven and rope materials are ideal for outdoor furniture in small spaces as their naturally open structure means you can see right through them, tricking the eye into thinking the space is larger than it is," explains Chloe. "This is going to keep the look of your garden feel open and uncluttered." Magic.

Andy Wu agrees, adding that heavy wooden garden furniture or wrought iron pieces can be big and bulky, dominating a small space and making it feel cramped.

"I recommend choosing lighter materials instead, which will keep the space open and airy," he says. "Aluminum is a winner since it's rust-proof, easily movable, and often features slim, sleek lines that won't overpower the space. Resin wicker is another good option, offering the look of natural wicker without the worry since it's also weather-resistant."

7. Pick Furniture in Bright Neutral Colors

“Choosing light, fresh colors can do wonders for opening up a compact garden," says Chloe. "Soft white, sky blue, and trending butter yellow all reflect light beautifully and bring an airy feel that’s ideal for spring and summer."

"These tones also pair effortlessly with greenery, helping furniture blend in rather than block the view of the garden," she adds.

8. Embrace Built-In Furniture

Another common misconception when it comes to outdoor furniture ideas for small spaces is that you need pieces that can easily be moved around or even packed away. And while that can definitely be beneficial in some circumstances, don't overlook built-in furniture completely.

Award-winning landscape designer Molly Wood is an advocate for built-in benches. "There's something about the permanence of built-in structures — they can simplify the space and make you feel anchored," she explains.

Built-in bench seats and banquettes become part of the outdoor architecture, almost disappearing into the space. And if you're going to commit to one, it's worth properly committing, says Molly. "Do not make your bench seat too narrow — it will feel like a punishment," she adds.

9. Save Floor Space With a Swing

When it comes to coming up with outdoor seating, a small space doesn't mean you can't have big ideas.

"Don't forget the vertical solutions," says Andy. "An outdoor hanging chair provides seating without taking up vital floor space. Innovative products like these keep the space open, eliminate the clutter, and optimize the functionality."

Plus, it's bound to make your outdoor area more inviting.

10. Multifunctional Makes Everything Easier

When selecting garden furniture for small spaces, anything multifunctional is going to make your life much easier. A bench that moonlights as additional storage? A coffee table that is also the perfect height to be extra seating? Yes, please.

Andy Wu is a big advocate for using multifunctional outdoor furniture for small spaces. "Fold-away tables are clever as they can be spread out for a party with guests and then folded back up, reclaiming your space," he adds.

When it comes to outdoor furniture ideas for small spaces, it's often the little details that make the most difference. But don't think you can't still make your outdoor area feel like an oasis, it's just about picking the right pieces.

But one simple thing you can do to ensure a small outdoor area doesn't feel cramped is to remove anything that doesn't need to be there. If you need help working out the things to throw out of your garden, don't worry — we've written a definitive list.

When I think of a backyard, I think of the colors that surround it. I think of the landscape and the furniture that sits upon it. In hopes of having my own space some day, I can’t help but imagine hues of colorful outdoor patio furniture, decoratively placed around my yard — a girl can dream right?

Colors add a certain sentiment to a space and when it comes to the exterior of a home, I believe it’s just as important to choose the right tones for your outdoor furniture, as it is for the interior of your home.

Choosing the right color can ultimately change the mood of your backyard. But what is the best color for outdoor furniture and is there a specific color you should be focusing on to enhance the way your patio furniture looks? Here’s what designers and experts from the best outdoor furniture brands think.

Why is color important for outdoor furniture?

Color plays a big role when it comes to shaping your backyard and finding the right furniture colors is what ultimately brings a space together.

Niki O'Brien, from interior and exterior renovation service Custom Exteriors LLC, tell us there are two important factors to look out for when choosing the right color for your outdoor furniture and these are: 'choosing a well-coordinating color and a color that doesn't show dirt and grime'. Niki says you should also 'consider the color of your siding, stucco, landscaping, and even your roof,' as it will give you a better ideas of the colors you'd want to choose for your furniture.

1. Beige

Neutral colors and shades such as beige and brown are quite popular when it comes to outdoor furniture. This timeless palette goes perfectly in modern homes which seek a minimalist touch and Niki O'Brien, from Custom Exteriors LLC tells us these colors 'typically create the best-adjusted atmosphere'.

Andrei Newman, a home improvement expert and the Founder of Designer Home Spas says these neutral tones also serve multiple purposes. He says that these colors 'match up well with outdoor settings of varying types without seeming out of place next to things like plants, patio flooring, or even the external colors of a house'.

As you look for inspiration to further your outdoor furniture ideas, choose this neutral tone to add some grace and aesthetic. Andrei tells us that the color beige is 'very clean and unchangeable appearance'. He explains that it 'can easily fit into different outdoor environments such as lush gardens or contemporary patios'. Beige blends well with 'nearly any color scheme hence reducing staining dirt, and the ability of this color to hide minor dirt and stains is quite strong,' Andrei adds. 'Moreover, it does not fade quickly under sun exposure like some other colors'.

2. Gray

Darker tones have a way of captivating a space, if used correctly and Andrei says gray is one color that can add 'an air of sophistication' to your outdoor furniture.

This color is great for 'concealing dirt and dust in outdoor spaces'. But a downside of it might be that it can get really warm under direct sunlight, so Andrei suggests 'using pads or covers to limit this problem'.

Overusing dark tones can be a hard look to pull off. A great way to break colors apart is by adding contrasting colors onto your outdoor furniture. For example, if you have dark gray sofa, try adding white pillows. Or experiment with color — after all almost every colors goes with gray. Mixing things up will give a more balanced feel to your outdoor furniture.

3. Brights

It's time to test the dopamine decor trend and add a pop of color onto your outdoor furniture. Yellow is quite a underrated and with the summer sun illuminating our day, why not match its energy? The bold, yet eccentric color is ideal for brightening up a space, and I for one, absolutely love it..

Yellow brings a sense of energy and youthfulness into a space and Andrei says it can 'create joyous moods within your exterior by making it lively,' which is perfect for entertaining your friends and family. Bright colors also have the 'capacity of working as focal points inside your interior design styles'.

He adds: 'Yellow is perfect for bringing energy and happiness into open-air premises because it creates a life-laden ambiance that improves mood immediately upon entering such areas. Use yellow as the accent or center in your design since it works perfectly well there'.

However, the downside yellow for outdoor furniture may be that it can fade much quicker when exposed to intense light, so Andrei advises to 'check for items that are resistant to UV radiation'.

4. Terracotta

Journeying through nature and its glorious colors, Andrei tells us, earth tones such as terracotta, with its deep burnt orange and brown hues, is a perfect pairing with of paying natures bountiful beauty.

He says terracotta can 'harmonize well with outdoor spaces particularly gardens that have lots of greens and wood elements'. And the 'overall tone of this shade creates a peaceful atmosphere that maintains tranquility'.

Creating and warm and welcoming feel, terracotta furniture is a big color trend in design right now, so it may be easier to find than ever before.

FAQ

What colors should you avoid?

In general, there is not one color that you should completely avoid, but if you are looking for functionality over aesthetics, then its time to be a little more selective with your outdoor furniture. Here are a few colors to avoid for outdoor furniture:

White: Although this is great for making a space feel minimal and clean, it is more likely to pick up dust, dirt and stains.

Black: Dark colors such as black might not be the best choice and Lindsay Schleis, from recycled outdoor furniture brand Polywood says although the color gives a slick modern look 'some people might find it a hotter choice in sunny climates due to the way it absorbs the sun’s energy'.

Clashing colors: You'd want your outdoor furniture color to pair well with your backyard, including the walls and the flooring, so Emma Putrimas, design expert for outdoor furniture brand Teak Warehouse recommends choosing colors that 'complement the color and style of your home's exterior'.

Choosing the perfect color for your outdoor furniture is ultimately up to you. It depends on your style and the atmosphere in which you want to create, so make it unique to you and add your own personal touch.

However, home improvement expert Andrei Newman, tells us the color which takes the crown for him is the only and only, beige. He says it 'gets the nod as the most versatile and practical option. It offers a timeless, clean look that fits seamlessly into various outdoor setups'. He continues: 'Additionally, its resilience against sun damage and dirt makes it both aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance, ensuring your outdoor space remains inviting year-round'.

For Livingetc's Color and Trends editor, Lilith Hudson, she says: 'The perfect outdoor furniture color is a delicate balance of functionality and aesthetics. I love the Mediterranean feel of sleek white furniture, but it's not going to have the same effect once it inevitably starts to wear and stain'. Lilith says she is currently loving blue tones, as they're 'so well suited to the outdoors, super calming, and cool, sky blue hues really tap into the recent trend for blue interiors, too. Aluminum coated or woven string furniture is also extremely durable, so your color will last for many summers to come'.

From summer days to stormy nights, if you want your outdoor furniture to stay looking its best then the best way to do that to invest in weatherproof designs.

While furniture that can survive the harshness of the mid-summer sun is one thing, designs that are waterproof are something else entirely. After all, if your furniture warps, rots or otherwise suffers when exposed to water, you'll always be at the mercy of an unexpected downpour. Realistically, most outdoor furniture isn't really designed to be left outside all winter, exposed to the elements on a long-term basis, but you'll find materials from the best outdoor furniture brands are weather-resistant enough to ensure your patio sets last for years to come.

We asked the experts which materials to look out for.

4 outdoor furniture materials that are waterproof

Co-founder of luxury garden furniture company, Gardenesque, Ali Wooldridge says good quality waterproof outdoor furniture should have 'moisture-resistant qualities as a priority,' as this will decrease the chance of 'irreversible damage, such as rust, rot, or warping'.

Even when purchasing waterproof goods, the experts say we should do what we can to take care of them. Ali tell us that 'while your furniture might be weather resistant, we always recommend covering when not in use to keep your furniture looking it’s prime and ready to use when the sun comes out'.

1. Eucalyptus FSC wood 

Ali tell us Eucalyptus FSC wood is ideal if you are looking for weather-resistant outdoor furniture.

Ali says this material is a 'dense, rot and decay resistant material that is designed to last, making it ideal for all weather types,' but she explains that this type of wood needs 'seasonal care and winter storage to keep the wood looking it’s best for longer'.

Caroline Burvill of Gaze Burvill says wood is a great choice as it 'is never cold to the touch in winter, unlike stone or metal, but also it is not burning hot in the heat of the summer sun. It sits comfortably in the garden space, at ease surrounded by plants, hedges, vegetable plots and beautiful views'.

2. PE Rattan

Ali says PE Rattan is great as a water and weather-resistant furniture, especially 'when finished with an aluminium frame'.

Aluminium is known to be 'extremely durable against the elements', it is also is 'moisture resistant', so Ali says 'you can leave it out all year round should you not have the storage space'. However, it still might be a good idea to cover your outdoor table out of season with a cover, like this from Amazon, to protect it from the elements.

Rattan is perfect for the outdoors as it is 'very easy to clean and can be powder coated to give a more aesthetic final appearance,' Ali adds. When it comes to which outdoor furniture lasts longest, this is the one material to know.

3. Powder coated steel

'Powder coated steel can also be a good choice for weather-resistant patio furniture, such as those used in egg chair fames,' Ali tells us.

If steel is treated properly and powder coated, Ali says it can be 'very effective'. But says that you should 'also cover with a furniture cover when not in use for extra protection'.

Powder coating materials also helps with chemical resistance and makes it easy to clean.

4. Teak wood

'Teak wood is great for rainproof furniture, as it has oils which are naturally moisture resistant, and so is less likely to rot or warp, like other woods,' Ali notes. But just like any other wood based furniture, it will 'need regularly treating throughout the season to keep it protected,' Ali adds.

Why is waterproof furniture important?

Furniture maker Richard Louise from Alabama-based Dovetails and Stitches tell us that there are 5 reasons as to why you need to get your hands on waterproof outdoor furniture.

1. Durability: Richard says waterproof furniture is 'designed to withstand various elements such as rain, snow, and humidity which by definition reduces wear and tear, preventing rust, rot, and other damage that can occur with non-waterproof materials'. The longevity of waterproof furniture means 'less frequent replacements and better value for money over time'.

2. Low Maintenance: 'I believe there is an inverse relationship here with durability because as durability rises, maintenance needs generally decline. Waterproof materials are generally easier to clean and require less upkeep compared to other types of outdoor furniture,' Richard tells us. He says this therefore makes them ideal for the outdoors settings where your furniture is more exposed 'to dirt, dust, and other environmental pollutants'.

3. Protection Against Mold and Mildew: 'Waterproofing is crucial not only for the frames of outdoor furniture but also for the cushions,' Richard explains. 'Cushions without waterproof treatments are particularly vulnerable to moisture absorption, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew'. To prevent this, choosing 'waterproof or moisture-resistant cushions, or using protective covers, can greatly enhance their longevity and maintain their appearance'.

4. Versatility: 'Waterproof outdoor furniture is designed to fit a variety of settings, from residential backyards, balconies, and gardens to commercial spaces such as cafes, restaurants, and hotel terraces'. Richard says this adaptability allows furniture to thrive in different climates and environments. 'For me, it makes dining alfresco an even more delightful experience, enhancing both comfort and style in outdoor dining settings,' he adds.

5. Cost-Effectiveness: 'Although generally speaking, waterproof outdoor furniture comes with a higher initial cost, its durability and low maintenance requirements make it a more cost-effective option in the long run,' Richard notes.

Waterproof pillow covers for outdoor furniture

When mother nature takes over, your outdoor furniture can take the brunt of it all and overtime, your wooden benches and metal stools will start to look a little worn out. But, instead of throwing these away, why not give them a little bit of a glow up?

'Staining outdoor furniture has its advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, staining can enhance the natural grain of the wood, give your furniture a richer and more appealing look,' Richard Louise from Dovetails and Stitches tells us.

If you are looking for backyard ideas and inspiration, why not start by freshening up the flow of your garden? You can do this by taking care of some of the items you already own, and staining might just be the first step towards a brighter space.

Here is some expert advice on staining your outdoor furniture.

What exactly is 'staining'?

'Staining refers to the application of a pigmented or transparent finish to wood that provides color and/or protective properties,' Tony O'Neill, an expert from Simplify Gardening tell us.

Unlike paint, which sits on the surface, Tony says stains go much deeper into the wood, 'providing lasting protection while still showcasing the natural grain of the wood'.

There are also different forms of stains. These can be water-based or oil-based, and 'come in a variety of colors and transparencies, from clear seals to solid colors,' Tony adds.

The pros of staining outdoor furniture

Josh Kou at North Castle Hardwoods says, staining wood furniture gives you the ability to choose your own colors that will 'complement your deck or decor'.

It also gives you a sense of 'ownership or craftsmanship as you customize it. And, of course, if you pick a high-quality exterior stain with UV protection, also can help the furniture last longer by protecting it from humidity changes,' Josh adds.

Climate is a big factor to consider when staining. Tim Warren a DIY expert from Adkwik points out that straining will help to protect furniture 'from the elements that may cause its condition to worsen over time, such as rain, UV rays or snow'. He says the use of a good quality stain will help 'form a barrier against moisture, which would otherwise potentially cause rot or decay'.

Tim says staining also helps increase the 'longevity,' of outdoor furniture, keeping them 'looking good for longer'.

'Stains can sometimes enhance the natural appearance of the materials used to make your furniture,' Tim explains, which in turn can 'bring out the natural colour or grain'.

In terms of styling, Tim says using wood stain allows you to 'customize the appearance of your furniture so that it can match the style of your home better'.

The cons of staining outdoor furniture

Staining might sound like a breeze, but Tim says the task can indeed be quite 'time consuming'. This is especially true if you are 'staining a large piece or doing multiple pieces at once'. It can take a few hours to apply and dry, and Tim notes that you might even need to add a few several coats, depending on the size of the furniture.

Another factor to consider when staining, is that it can be quite expensive, as Tim says 'brushes or rollers,' might also add to your costs.

Josh says that 'stain or sealant will wear out with time,' which means you'll have to stain the furniture again after 1-3 years. But he says, you can 'extend the life of the stain by covering your furniture and bringing it inside in harsh weather – which is a hassle, but is not a bad idea to do whether or not it’s stained'.

Timing matters

'You should aim to apply stain to outdoor furniture when it has not rained for a few days, and the forecast predicts that the following few days will be dry,' Tim says.

He recommends that you do not stain furniture when it is in direct sunlight, as this can dry out the stain too quickly before make 'the wood can properly absorb it'.

Josh advises if you've recently just purchased outdoor furniture and it does not come with stain, you should stain it as soon as possible. 'Definitely stain, seal, or finish it in some way before you place it outdoors at all, or it will absorb humidity and begin to suffer sun damage as soon as it goes outside'.

Is it really necessary to stain outdoor furniture?

Tim tells us that it is not 'essential to maintain outdoor furniture if it is made from high quality materials'. However, he says wooden furniture that is not 'made of teak does benefit from staining, as it will help to extend the lifespan of the wood and enhance the appearance of the wood grain'.

Before staining, Tim advises that you 'check the manufacturer's recommendations, as some furniture may benefit from being stained annually, whereas other furniture may not need it'.

Josh recommends staining 'white oak or at least finishing it with a UV-protective sealant or a clear stain'. He says 'cedar and teak have natural oils that protect them from the elements, so they’re less often stained, but can still benefit from a sealant'.

Richard Louise from Dovetails and Stitches says, you should stain and seal woods such as, pine, fir and oak as 'staining these woods helps protect against moisture absorption, sun damage, and wear, prolonging the furniture's life and maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

'Applying a stain can significantly enhance the durability and appearance of these more vulnerable woods when used outdoors. I would highly recommend a quality outdoor topcoat, like a good marine spar varnish,' He adds.

Should outdoor furniture be painted or stained?

'Choosing between painting or staining outdoor furniture depends on the desired finish and maintenance requirements,' Richard says.

He explains that staining enhances the 'natural beauty' of wood, 'allows the grain to show through, and is generally easier to maintain,' as it does not peel like paint.

Staining requires 'reapplication' to enhance color and protection, but Richard says it is 'less labor-intensive over time'.

Whereas painting 'provides a uniform color and greater protection (assuming no topcoat over a stain) against the elements,' but may require 'more frequent touch-ups due to chipping or peeling'.

'For woods that don't naturally resist decay, painting might offer an additional barrier against wear and moisture,' Richard adds.

To stain or not to stain... here's what you should consider

Richard tells us, staining should be considered in these four moments:

1. If the wood appears old or faded, as a fresh stain can revitalize its look.

2. If you notice signs of wear 'such as cracking or splintering, which can be mitigated by the protective properties of stain and topcoat'.

3. You want to change the color to 'refresh the furniture's appearance or to match new outdoor decor'.

4. And last but not least, Richard says 'before significant weather exposure, particularly if the furniture has never been stained, to ensure it is protected from the start'.

Our experts tips and tricks for staining furniture

Tim says staining wood will 'permanently change its color, so if you are not sure about the color or the type you are applying, test it on a spare piece of wood or an inconspicuous area first'.

'If you think you may have applied too much stain, wipe the excess off straight away, as otherwise it will take much longer to dry,' he adds.

Before staining, be sure to get rid of any 'inperfections' first, by sanding it down. You should then proceed to 'clean the wood so that it is free of dust and dirt. Only apply a small amount of stain at a time, and follow the direction of the wood grain'.

One look at the calendar and you'll probably be as shocked as us when you realize that we're nearly at the halfway mark of 2024. Having said that, there's plenty to look forward to, and one of our favorite sunny seasons will soon be upon us. To prepare for the onset of summer, we've started to gather the top trends that are worth following in order to have a stylish summer home in time for the seasonal transition. And we've noticed that color is back in a big way this year and it's not restricted to your inside spaces.

Every backyard deserves a vibrant makeover and lucky for us, there is a way to DIY this trend instead of splashing the cash on new modern outdoor furniture. If you're looking for an affordable way to stay on trend this summer, we suggest painting your outdoor furniture for a chic new look. As for which hues you need in your backyard, we spoke to the experts and they've given us the perfect summer shades for you to have all the makings of a stunning patio.

1. Cherry Red

Nothing pops quite like a splash of cherry red and this color happens to look very chic when draped across your patio furniture. Amy Holton, creative head at Lust Home, tells us that her philosophy when it comes to infusing color is the brighter the better and she especially follows this rule when she's looking to add a touch of personality to spaces that are commonly overlooked. Amy informs us that cherry red is one of the hottest colors this summer and we can't help but agree.

We think that this color works especially well for minimalist backyards that are looking to be spiced up for summer. Since red is a statement color, it can truly enliven a bare space and it ties in perfectly with the trending unexpected red theory.

2. Cobalt Blue

Deep blue hues pair beautifully with the green shades that come with a lush garden or a grassy backyard, so it makes complete sense that this is one of the popular colors for summer. 'Depending on the theme of the garden, the surrounding flora and fauna can inspire the furniture’s color,' says Amy. Moreover, she informs us that cobalt blues are an especially trendy color to keep an eye out for.

Cobalt blue is an electric color that's sure to elevate any piece of outdoor furniture. However, we especially like the thought of electric blue ottomans and coffee tables for a striking pop of color.

3. Botanical Green

Whether your outdoor patio is missing a dose of botanical green or even if your backyard is alive with blooms, we love the idea of these charming green tints coming to life on our alfresco furniture. Tony Peng, managing director at OASIQ, he tells us that this season, designers have been drawn to a variety of colors when designing outdoor spaces and natural shades of green are at the forefront of the summer hues.

'The green colorway tends to infuse a sense of calm into a space, creating relaxing environments that seamlessly blend into the lush landscapes,' he says. And with the range of botanical green shades, you can go as zen or as luxurious as you'd like. For instance, you can go for a soothing aesthetic with a sage green or you can try forest green for a rich finish.

4. Sunny Yellow

When you think of summer, you think of a bright and sunlit yellow hue, so why shouldn't you infuse the color of summer itself into your colorful backyard? A whimsical yellow garden bench or a set of joyful yellow dining chairs can transform your patio from blah to blissful. 'Acting as the perfect statement piece or focal point, golden hues light up in outdoor atmospheres, adding a sense of cheer to warm, sunny afternoons and dusky nights,' says Tony.

Experimenting with yellow also allows you to test the dopamine decor trend outside of the walls of your interior home. So if you've found your outdoor furniture a tad boring lately, maybe a lick of yellow paint is what your furniture was missing all along.

5. Punchy Pink

Barbiecore was all the rage last summer, but this blushy pink shade will never go out of style, and it's time for this hue to take on a new life on your patio furniture. Not only does this color add a subtle splash of color to your chairs but it perfectly compliments the gorgeous green that comes with a summer garden. Paired together, these colors give off an exotic beachy vibe that is hard to come by with other shades.

'I've noticed that shades of pink have also showcased immense staying power,' notes Tony. The chic color palette - bolstered by a globally popular motion picture and millennial influences - has quite the range, often adding the perfect pop of color that can read as a refreshing neutral in outdoor design schemes.'

6. Vibrant Orange

There's just something about a zesty orange hue splayed across the furniture. Be it an accent table or a couple of sun loungers, this shade has so much potential and looks phenomenal on most pieces of furniture. While this color is commonly contained to pillows, we think that a refreshing orange hue would look just as summery on larger furnishings.

Amy tells us that vivid orange hues are due to be a big hit across patios this summer. Try painting your wooden chairs or a picnic bench as an unexpected way to bring color to your backyard.

7. Deep Black

You might not have seen this one coming but this chic hue is a classic color for a backyard makeover and it fits the bill perfectly if you're going for a cohesive monochrome finish to your patio. Tony tells us that matte black finishes offer a classic appeal that never goes out of demand. 'Black forms the perfect starting point to build off of - whether you're going for a more neutral appeal or if you're looking to add in pops of color,' he notes.

As a shade that exudes elegance, black looks timeless on any patio and it's an incredibly easy color to work with when it comes to recoloring your furniture. All in all, this color is on-trend for the summer but also translates well as the seasons change, making it an ideal go-to hue.

All you need to get your patio in season is a little bit of time and a couple of cans of any of the aforementioned summer colors. Not only will it give you an inexpensive revamp but it can be plenty of fun to get your DIY game on, especially with the warm weather creating the ultimate ambiance for an artistic day outside. But if you're not too keen on painting over your current furniture, we've scoured the virtual aisles and have found some lovely furniture doused in the trendiest tones of the season. This essentially allows you to benefit from all the joy of a colorful backyard without any of the work!

Our top buys for a vibrant patio

My ideal summer evening? Hanging out on a patio, ideally sitting on some West Elm outdoor furniture. There are other brands out there, of course, but none that capture the perfect blend of style and functionality I love in a backyard piece.

Generally, outdoor furniture is a tricky one to purchase. You want it to look chic, but not too chic that it will rust or mold. It can't be so light it might blow away in the wind, but it also can't be too heavy or you could never move it when the seasons change. You probably want something budget-friendly but know all too well that style and function go hand in hand with investment. And rightfully so. Starting at West Elm (and here's our West Elm sale and outdoor furniture sale round-ups, if you'd like to give that a read) is, therefore, a wise choice.

'High-quality outdoor furniture is specifically designed to withstand various weather conditions and the test of time,' says Aino Heinäsuo, head of design at ReDecor, an online design simulator. While potentially more expensive when compared to inside-only buys, outdoor pieces are 'built to endure exposure to sun, rain, wind, and even freezing temperatures and snow. Therefore, it's crucial to invest in well-made pieces and ensure proper care to prolong their lifespan. With proper maintenance, good-quality outdoor furniture can last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment.'

With that in mind, let's take a quick peek at some outdoor furniture that's worth the price tag, shall we? And with summer celebrations around the corner, some are even marked down as we speak. Just act fast to get the best of the deals!

Best West Elm Outdoor Sofas

Best West Elm Outdoor Sectionals

Best West Elm Outdoor Chairs

Best West Elm Outdoor Coffee Tables

What should I keep in mind when buying outdoor furniture?

Among other things, you want to 'prioritize quality over price,' Aino reiterates. 'While cheaper options may seem tempting, they often lack the durability needed to withstand outdoor weather conditions, leading to frequent replacements, and ultimately costing you more in the long run.'

Additionally, make sure you're buying an 'appropriate size [piece] for your space,' adds Traci Reeves, senior director of merchandising at Grandin Road. 'But most importantly – get what you love and make your outdoor space yours!'

Spring is in the air and the days are getting warmer and longer. This can only mean one thing - it's time to take the outdoor furniture out of storage (or remove the protective covers), ready for alfresco entertaining. 

Even if you invest in the best outdoor furniture brands, it may still be looking a little less than ideal when you pull it out after winter. If that's the case, our experts have 5 ways to refresh outdoor furniture for a new season of use.

Maintained well, outdoor furniture should provide many years of enjoyment. Of course, there are different methods of rejuvenation, depending on the age, material and condition of your furniture, so our experts have several suggestions to consider. 

1. Start with a good clean

Ideally you will have prepared outdoor furniture for fall and winter, and it will have been cleaned before it was put away at the end of last summer. However, depending how it was covered or stored, damp, mold, algae, dust or rust may have appeared.

Whether it's made of wood, metal, plastic or rattan, or whatever its age, your outdoor furniture will benefit from a clean. Although it may seem like an easy option, most manufacturers advise against jet-washing outdoor furniture. 

'For outdoor metal furniture, we recommend simply wiping it down with a wet cloth and letting it completely dry before covering it,' says Gifty Walker, furniture expert, Joybird. 'For a deeper clean, use a mild detergent with warm water.

'Whenever there’s inclement weather coming your way or you’re not using outdoor furniture for an extended period of time, we recommend storing it in a covered area or using a waterproof furniture cover. This helps protect it from the elements and reduces the risk of corrosion or rot.'

'If rust spots develop on metal pieces, gently sand the affected area with fine grit sandpaper. Then clean it using soap and water,' adds Milos Vranes, co-founder, GreenEcoDream. 'Applying metal paint or sealant can help prevent rusting.'

'To clean timber outdoor furniture, combine soap with water and use a brush or sponge to scrub the surface and get rid of any dirt or grime,' continues Milos. 'Avoid using brushes that could harm the wood's exterior. Once cleaned, allow the furniture to air dry completely. 

'With rattan, begin by vacuuming the furniture to eliminate dust and debris. Next create a solution of detergent mixed with water to gently wipe down the surfaces using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid saturating the material.

'Ensure drying of furniture to prevent mold and mildew growth. Placing it in a ventilated space or utilizing a fan can aid in speeding up the drying process.

'On plastic furniture, a mixture of mild detergent and warm water will usually do the trick. Use a sponge or a cloth to scrub the furniture gently. For stubborn stains, baking soda mixed with water can be an effective paste. 

'If algae have developed, a vinegar and water solution can be effective. Apply it to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft brush.'

'Leaving outdoor furniture to dry in the sun after cleaning can be quick and effective, but it's not the best choice for every material. While metal and plastic furniture can generally withstand sun drying without much issue, timber and rattan pieces might suffer from warping, cracking, or fading due to prolonged sun exposure. 

'To err on the side of caution, we advise to wipe them down with a dry towel after cleaning and then allow them to finish drying in a shaded, well-ventilated area.'

2. Oil timber surfaces

If you want to prolong the life of a wooden outdoor furniture or timber-framed seating, seal it with oil, such as quick-drying boiled linseed oil, like this one from Amazon, or similar. 

This method applies to untreated or previously oiled surfaces (not those that have been painted or varnished – or to timber such as oak, where you want it to develop a silvery patina over time).  

Sealing timber furniture with oil is a relatively simple task, requiring a cool, dry day.

'Outdoor furniture is constantly exposed to the elements like sunlight, rain, snow, and humidity,' says Gifty Walker at Joybird. 'Over time, this exposure can cause the wood to deteriorate, warp, crack, and even rot. 

'Oil helps form a protective layer on the surface of the wood, helping to repel moisture and prevent damage from the sun. Since oil seals the wood, you create a barrier that inhibits moisture penetration, reducing the likelihood of rot and decay. 

'Regularly oiling outdoor timber furniture is part of its maintenance routine and is recommended at least once a year depending on your climate. Most people prefer to do this at the start of the outdoor season when their furniture will get the most use. 

'We recommend selecting an oil based on the specific wood type. Teak oil is the most common and is formulated for hardwoods such as teak, eucalyptus, and other dense timber used in outdoor furniture. It penetrates deeply into the wood, nourishing and protecting it from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental damage. It also enhances the natural color and grain of the wood while providing an attractive finish. 

'Tung oil is another popular choice. It’s known for its water resistance and durability, and for forming a tough, protective barrier that withstands exposure to the elements.'

3. Invigorate it with color

A colorful coat of the best exterior paint can invigorate your yard, especially when color is applied to timber or metal outdoor furniture.  

'Garden furniture such as benches or stools can be freshened up with your favourite hue to achieve a personalised look,' says Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore. 'Painting smaller accessories, such as plant pots, in the same shade will tie everything together.

'Like any surface, metal furniture may contain contaminates, including existing paint, rust and oil - these impurities can inhibit adhesion, therefore must be removed before painting metal. 

'Similarly, you need to make sure timber furniture is dry and free of mould and mildew. Wood will then need to be sanded; working from a coarse-grade sandpaper to a finer one until the surface is smooth. 

From this, you can then determine whether you need to prime the wood ahead of painting. if an old painted surface is still intact after sanding, the first coat of paint will act as your primer.

'All metal surfaces will need to be primed to ensure rust inhibition and effective adhesion of your topcoat.' Try this interior/exterior Zinsser primer from Amazon.

4. Create a bleached coastal effect with a whitewash

Whitewashed outdoor furniture has an elegant coastal look that evokes vacation vibes. Give your yard this rustic style by painting timber or rattan furniture with a couple of coats of whitewash for a sun-bleached effect. 

'The beauty of whitewashed outdoor furniture intensifies as it weathers, influenced by the type of wood. It presents a lovely and soft aesthetic,' says paint and color expert, Annie Sloan. 

'When painting outdoor furniture, start by using a stiff bristled brush to clean off any cobwebs, dirt, or dust that may have settled on the surface. The second crucial factor to ensure optimal performance of Chalk Paint on your outdoor furniture is to make sure that the furniture is completely dry before you start the painting process.

'Check the type of wood you're working with. If the furniture has a varnish finish, direct whitewashing won't adhere to it. In such cases, begin with a layer of Chalk Paint, then achieve a distressed look by rubbing the surface before sealing it.

'If the wood is unvarnished, to get a whitewashed look, dilute your Chalk Paint with 1/3 water before applying it. The best technique for whitewashing is to make sure your brush or sponge is slightly damp before dipping it into the paint. Then lightly wipe it over the furniture to allow the paint to sink into the wood.

'See if this gives you the desired effect and add water or paint to the mix until you are happy with the whitewash effect.

'Allow your furniture to dry (at least 2-3 hours) before applying Chalk Paint Lacquer. Two coats, with plenty of drying time between them, will protect your outdoor furniture from UV rays, water damage, and general wear and tear.

'I advise storing outdoor furniture in garages, sheds, or under covers during winter months to protect the finish for a longer time.'

5. Spruce up pillows and seat pads

Once the frame of your outdoor sofa and seating is cleaned, sealed or painted, it's ready for the seat pads and pillows. Wash and press the covers of your existing kit so it looks, feels and smells fresh. 

'To remove stains or mildew spots from cushions or upholstery first remove any debris by brushing,' says Milos at GreenEcoDream. 'Next create a mixture of soap and warm water and gently scrub the area using a soft brush or cloth. 

'For mildew stains you can enhance the solution by adding an amount of white vinegar. Once you've cleaned the area make sure to rinse it with water and let the cushion or fabric dry naturally in a well ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent future mildew growth and preserve the materials quality.'

To refresh the look, keep a spare set of outdoor cushion covers and swap them around each year. Add in a new pillow or two, or bring out coordinating interior pillows for extra comfort and style, when entertaining for the day.

Colors don't need to be bright or vivid. Faded tones and muted hues will give outside spaces a relaxed, sun-kissed vibe.   

Selecting the right outdoor furniture for your lawn, patio, decking or porch is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Contrary to what you might think, it's a process that requires as much thought and consideration as selecting pieces for your home's interiors.

First and foremost, picking backyard furniture is about setting the right tone. 'Outdoor furniture serves as the initial glimpse into the essence of indoor spaces or the embodiment of outdoor ambiance,' says Esther Stam from Studio Modijesky. But other considerations need to be factored in too, like how your chosen material works with the weather, and how measurements fit to make the most of the backyard space you have.

To ensure you're buying the right pieces from the best outdoor furniture brands for your backyard, we've spoken to the experts for their top tips.

1. Choose colors carefully

Color plays a significant role in your backyard when it comes to selecting those big-ticket items of furniture. You might not have considered a color scheme for your backyard, but it's as important as your interiors. Think about how the colors of your furniture fit and interact with the flowers and plants or hardscaping, and plan a smooth transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. 'Contemplate local context and surroundings for color inspiration,' says Esther Stam from Studio Modijesky.

Be wary of outdoor furniture colors to avoid too. 'Steer clear of too much white,' warns Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder of Staghorn NYC and The Cultivation by Kat. 'For most of us, the upkeep isn’t worth the aesthetics and they are nearly impossible to keep clean. If lighter cushions are your favorite, I recommend sticking with a light sand, beige, or gray tone instead.'

Similarly, you might not want to go too dark and moody as dark browns and black shades will inevitably sink into the surrounding landscape and won't help your furniture stand out.

2. Keep things feeling mixed

For a distinctive backyard style that feels personal to you, you want to establish a look. ‘Your backyard furnishings should embody your preferences and harmonize with your home’s architectural style and landscaping,’ says Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight, an interior design studio based in New York.

Try and keep your backyard looking varied and interesting by mixing brands, much like you would with your interiors. One outdoor furniture mistake the designers frequently notice is homeowners buying everything from one place. Some of our favorite furniture brands include the likes of Danish brand HAY, Yardbird, and Outer, and mix things with outdoor furniture by Anthropologie, Target and McGee & Co.

'Prioritize mixing materials and brands to establish a diverse yet cohesive aesthetic,' says Esther. At the same time, look for boutique or flea market finds that put your own stamp on the space 'Incorporating custom-made pieces adds unique character,' says Esther.

3. Consider dimensions and zoning

Whether you have a small balcony or a large deck, measuring up your space and getting to grips with the dimensions is important before you buy your modern outdoor furniture. The dimensions will also help you plan for space too, which is needed to help the flow and movement of the backyard.

Use furniture to your advantage too. A well-sized rug or outdoor sofa can be used to help establish zones for socializing, eating, or gathering around a firepit.

As well as the furniture, use the hard landscaping of the backyard to your advantage to play around and zone the space. 'To help connect the front and back outdoor spaces for a more cohesive outdoor flow, consider adding concrete pavers that frame the landscape in a simple, yet beautiful design, and require minimal maintenance,' says David Thompson, founder and principal of Assembledge. 'The rectangular geometry of the pavers translates into long linear patterns.'

If you are working with a small backyard, the best way to make the most of the space is to double up with furniture. 'Opt for multifunctional items that serve dual purposes,' says Esther.

4. Choose material wisely

Picking the optimum material for your outdoor furniture is crucial. Furniture needs to be durable and made to withstand the outdoor elements. Whether you live in a hot, arid zone that can bleach material with strong rays of sun, or a cold and rainy area that might damage wood or upholstery, climate and weather should be taken into consideration before buying.

'Remember how climate impacts the space and make sure to factor in salt exposure, wind, drying time, and level of care preferences for furniture material,' says landscape designer, Mostafa Shaikhbahaie at Paul Sangha Creative. 'Determine if metal, fabric, or woodwork is preferred for comfort or if you prefer materials which require less care and maintenance for year-round outdoor use.'

Be conscious of your particular environment when selecting materials too, warns Kat. 'Be wary of cheap metal pieces as they might rust,' she says. 'And don’t put black metal in full sun as it will get hot.' You should also avoid using wood in a shady or damp area as it will get coated in algae or moss, and if your space is windy, be sure to choose pieces that are weighted down and allow wind to pass through so they don’t blow away.

Think about which outdoor furniture lasts the longest. PE rattan and powder-coated aluminum frames are reliable material options that withstand all weather.

5. Keep it looking fresh

Before you commit, think about how you will store your furniture and soft furnishings, and how you will commit to it looking and staying fresh. Check with the manufacturer to see how they recommend keeping the furniture in the best possible condition, and whether they recommend storing the piece inside if the weather turns. If this is the case, reassess to see if you have the room inside for your furniture to be moved in and out as and when needed.

Review whether covers and cushions are needed, making sure to buy outdoor-rated fabric and fill, and if not, make sure there is outdoor storage available for off-season use. 'Keep in mind that using covers in damp areas can lead to furniture becoming moldy if left covered for too long,' says Mostafa.

All-weather covers, like these from Amazon, that fit over your furniture are another top buy to protect your furniture, protecting the item from the rain, while helping stop outdoor furniture from fading. We would also recommend regular cleans to remove mildew and dry off condensation. Avoid harsh chemicals too and try scrubbing with diluted washing-up liquid instead.

Weather-proof outdoor furniture buys

With winter officially here, your outdoor furniture probably isn't a priority right now, but if you want your patio table and chairs to last through freezing conditions you'll know that winterizing them is essential. You might have covered yours already, or maybe you've moved them into the garage to protect them until spring. Or, perhaps you've been tempted to try a hack circulating on social media - one that involves a certain household ingredient. 

We're talking about olive oil, a kitchen staple that's been hailed by many for being the simple, cheap solution to prepare your outdoor furniture for colder temperatures. Supposedly, applying a thin layer of oil to your furniture works as a treatment that adds an extra layer of protection to the material and keeps it looking its best. 

If you're not committed to moving your tables and chairs into a shed or garage, it might sound like a genius idea, but not everyone's convinced. We caught up with some furniture experts to find out what they thought and - spoiler alert - they weren't fans of the idea.

Can you use olive oil on wooden outdoor furniture? 

While olive oil can be used on outdoor furniture - especially the wooden kind - without any adverse effects, it isn't a reliable method when it comes to preparing your outdoor furniture for fall and winter. 'Sure olive oil could help wooden furniture shine and retain moisture, but unlike more commonly recommended substances like seed-based oil, nut-based tung oil, or pine oil (which do eventually dry), oil pressed from vegetables like olives tends to linger and may become rancid when exposed to air or even attract dirt and particles to the wood,' explains Lindsay Schleis of Polywood furniture. 

'Specific woods require specific oils too,' she adds. 'Teak furniture, for example, is best treated with a designated teak oil that is generally made from a combination of linseed, mineral spirits, and the aforementioned tung oil. This should be applied, not just before winter, but a few times throughout the year to avoid patina.' 

Jonathan Warshaw, founder of Simple Woodworker, says that if oiling is necessary (which is especially important in the winter as cold temperatures dry out your wood), then mineral oil is a better choice due to its longer shelf life. 'However, it’s important to note that once the wood has split or cracked from drying, it’s quite challenging to restore its original moisture,' he says. 'Oils primarily coat the surface without addressing deeper structural damage.'

Can you use olive oil on plastic or metal furniture? 

So what about plastic or metal furniture? 'When it comes to synthetic materials like synthetic rattan or critical weather-resistant fabrics used in outdoor furniture, olive oil doesn't make the cut,' says Wendy Wang of F&J Outdoors. 'These materials are inherently designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions, including frost, so applying oil can actually impair their natural, built-in durability.'

 Despite its drawbacks in terms of sustainability, if you're wondering which type of outdoor furniture lasts the longest, plastic furniture is generally a more practical choice. While a bit of T&C this time of year wouldn't go amiss, maintenance of plastic furniture (including synthetic rattan) is far simpler than wood. 'We suggest simply cleaning with a mild detergent and water as needed,' says Lindsay. 'This type of “forever furniture” is built to last and is ideal for folks who don’t want to spend a lot of time treating, cleaning, painting, covering, and moving outdoor furniture around to protect it.'

For any type of outdoor furniture, the best way to winterize it is by using a furniture cover or moving it into a sheltered space like a garage or shed. 'Overall, while the olive oil hack might appeal as a quick solution, professional products designed for outdoor furniture protection promise a more lasting and worry-free outcome,' says Wendy. 

We talk quite a bit about indoor living spaces, but what about outdoor ones? While we may not spend the majority of our time outside, the benefits of turning your outdoor area into a stylish retreat are undeniable. It's a chance to connect with nature, reduce stress, and expand your usable living space.

Whether you have a sprawling lawn, a cozy deck, a quaint courtyard, a refreshing swimming pool, or a combination of these elements, our carefully curated selection has something for every outdoor setting. From stylish tables to dreamy daybeds, these options are designed to enhance your outdoor experience.

And here's the exciting part — most of these pieces are currently on sale, making it the perfect time to transform your outdoor retreat into a haven of comfort and style. Dive into the best Wayfair sale pieces for your outdoor oasis transformation!

Anything missing? You can shop Wayfair's complete range of outdoor furniture options to find whatever else you're looking for. 

Best outdoor sofas from Wayfair

Best outdoor tables from Wayfair

Best outdoor chairs from Wayfair

Best outdoor daybeds from Wayfair

How can I choose the best outdoor furniture?

When it comes to outdoor furniture, durability is key. Opt for materials like aluminum, teak, or all-weather wicker for long-lasting, low-maintenance options. Check for care information in product descriptions and go for pieces with machine-washable covers whenever possible. 

And remember: comfort, comfort, comfort! Prioritize lounging-friendly materials for a relaxing outdoor haven. Tailor your furniture choices to your lifestyle — whether it's cozy family moments or frequent entertaining — to create an inviting space that suits your needs.

Want more of Wayfair? Explore our top selections from the current Wayfair Black Friday sale. 

It may be hard to accept but fall is upon us. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even Christmas are just around the corner. This means your patio furniture is probably going to be out of use, too - but it begs a question: do you leave it where it stands, should you cover it, or move it inside completely? It isn't easy to know what's best.

Outdoor furniture is expensive and not something you want to be replacing often. Taking good care of your patio pieces can keep them looking their best and dramatically extend their life span, meaning you get more out of your investment.

It's not a one-size-fits-all solution. After all, different materials require slightly different conditions and treatment, but there is a clear answer to this question that experts are united upon. Find out whether you are inadvertently damaging your patio furniture and what you can do to look after it properly.

It depends on the material, and the environment

One of the biggest factors that will influence the answer to this question is the material of your furniture. Depending on what it is made out of will change the answer to this question.

Some furniture can be left outside. 'Furniture constructed from weather-resistant materials such as teak, cedar, aluminum, or synthetic rattan can generally endure outdoor conditions with resilience,' says professional gardener Alex Tinsman from How to Houseplant. Although protective measures are still advisable to ensure their longevity there are specific ways you can prepare your furniture for fall.

'You can leave your wooden furniture outside over winter with the right care and preparation,' says Roxil's wood expert, Dr. Jonathan Kirby. Given that your furniture is of good quality it should be able to stand up to a variety of weather conditions. 'Most wood is sturdy and can handle a little rain,' Jonathan explains, 'but in the winter the rain is heavier and lasts longer, which could cause problems.'

However, not all wood is the same, so make sure to look up the specifications of your furniture. 'The type of wood utilized is what matters,' says Alex. While certain woods like teak and cedar exhibit natural resistance to the elements, others may succumb to deterioration if consistently exposed. Materials like wicker and rattan do not fare well in cold weather, even from the best outdoor furniture brands.

Some metals can be left outside. aluminum and stainless steel for example tend to withstand rust. However, others can deteriorate over time if neglected. Plastic and resin furniture are particularly engineered to resist weather-related wear, making it generally safe to leave outside.

It is also beneficial to consider your environment. If you get extremely harsh winters you may wish to bring your furniture inside just to ensure it's adequately protected.

Should I cover my furniture?

Protecting your furniture when leaving it outside is important. whilst you can treat the wood it can also be helpful to use a cover.

'Covering your patio furniture can significantly prolong the life of your furniture and keep it clean,' says Wendy Wang, founder of F&J Outdoors.

When retiring your furniture for the season, think about how to store outdoor cushions, too. Start by putting all cushions inside or under in an outdoor storage solution. This is one piece of all garden furniture that needs to be stored away as they are at risk of getting damp and moldy. 

Securing your furniture with a secure and durable cover is your best bet for keeping them outside. However, if you are storing them in a poorly insulated or even damp garage this can also be a great option.

So, can I leave my patio furniture outside?

Yes! If you have checked the specifications of your furniture material and deem it to be durable enough to withstand your specific weather conditions. To ensure your furniture is protected in the best way take extra measures to prepare them for fall.

You will need

You might not think it right now, given there's a heatwave stretching across much of the US, but we're heading into fall. When it comes to our outdoor furniture, you might be getting some last minute use out of your backyard's seating, but are all too aware that it won't be long until you have to retire them for the season. But as we reach that point, what do we do without furniture?

Outdoor furniture is expensive, and not something you want to be replacing frequently. As such we need to ensure we take care of it properly to extend its lifespan. One of the common mistakes people often make is leaving furniture out in all seasons. This will drastically reduce its life and can lead to all sorts of problems. Taking the time to learn how to properly care for it will not only save you money in the long run, it will also ensure it is looking its best ahead of its next season.

We have spoken to an expert who has revealed three simple steps to get your furniture ready for hibernation, as well as three things you absolutely shouldn't be doing. You might be shocked by what they have to say.

Can you leave your patio furniture outside during winter?

The best patio furniture makes an outdoor space come alive, it can feel terribly sad to pack it all away for over half of the year. It can also make your backyard feel slightly empty. However our experts have revealed this might not be necessary to keep your furniture protected.

'You can leave your wooden furniture outside over winter with the right care and preparation,' says Roxil's wood expert, Dr. Jonathan Kirby.

You will be pleased to know that when given the right treatment and protection your patio furniture can be left outside. No need to lug it inside or make room in the garage. 

Given that your furniture is of good quality it should be able to stand up to a variety of weather conditions. 'Most wood is sturdy and can handle a little rain,' Jonathan explains, 'but in the winter the rain is heavier and lasts longer, which could cause problems.'

Thankfully he has revealed his three steps to protecting your wooden furniture in time for winter.

What to do with your outdoor furniture

1. Clean it

Before you do anything more it is essential that you clean your garden furniture. Skipping this step will mean all the dirt from a summer of fun will be trapped, slowly degrading your furniture over time. Whether you are a minimalist outdoor furniture person or one who likes to take it to the max, cleaning is necessary for all.

'First, get rid of loose debris,' says Jonathan. 'Use a bristled brush in the direction of the wood grain, to get rid of leaves, twigs, and dust, as well as stubborn dirt and algae.' Anything you leave on your furniture will have several months to set, which ultimately will ruin the wood.

Make sure to do this gently, your aim is not to strip the wood entirely. 'For wood coated in biological growth, like green algae, you’ll need to clean the surface more thoroughly before painting with a biocidal cleaner and use a pump-action pressure sprayer for an even surface. This is typical of horizontal surfaces, decking in particular,' he says.

If your wood is particularly discolored you may wish to use a wood scrub, or lightly sand it. 'Using a brush or a roller apply this over the surface and leave for up to an hour. Then using a brush and some water simply scrub the surface to reveal a lighter, fresher colour to your wood,' Jonathan suggests.

2. Waterproof it

If you are looking to leave your furniture out all year round you need to waterproof it. I know you don't want to believe it now, but the rain will come at some point this fall, and it is best to prepare for that. There are many design tweaks you can make to your backyard for fall, and protecting your furniture is just one way you can extend its life into the colder months.

'Waterproofing will offer long-term protection from heavy rain,' says Jonathan. 'This will help protect your furniture from extreme weather conditions, preventing problems like mold and algae growth as well as warping and structural instability.'

Use a brush or roller to apply a waterproofing wood cream, then let it absorb for 24 hours before continuing with the next step. 

3. Preserve it

The final step to protect your furniture is to add a wood preserver to protect it from the elements, rot, and mold. This step is crucial if you wish to enjoy your furniture year after year. We have all heard horror stories of people uncovering their furniture some spring to discover mold has taken over.

There are many options for wood preservers out there. 'You can choose clear options, that will subtly protect the wood,' he says, 'but why not give your garden a pop of color? Not only does this act as protection, it is also a way to make your outdoor furniture look more expensive.

Use a brush or, for a more even finish, spray to apply the preserver and let it dry for one hour.' Once you have done this your furniture is protected for the winter season.

What not to do

1. Use pressure washer

We know its satisfying to use a pressure washer but it might be time to step away from the gadget, it might be doing more harm than good.

'Pressure washing can be destructive to wooden surfaces as it can damage or strip off the top layer of the wood,' says Jonathan. 'This opens up the pore structure and the increases rate of moisture ingress. High levels of moisture will lead to more serious problems, such as warping and rot, which will reduce the lifespan of your wooden furniture,' he explains.

Save your pressure washer for tougher materials such as stone, which can withstand the harshness.

2. Use aggressive cleaners

Similarly aggressive chemical cleaners are too harsh for wooden furniture. It can be tempting to tackle discoloration, mold, and moss with bleach but this will damage the wood further.

So put the chemicals down and follow the gentle cleaning routine outlined above. There is no need to get aggressive.

3. Leave it in the rain

This is easier said than done when it comes to fall, but watching the weather forecast is an important part of preparing your furniture for the cold.

'Whatever you do don’t ignore the weather forecast,' advises Jonathan. 'Whether you’re cleaning, painting, or waterproofing, each stage will need a couple of hours of preparation, and sometimes up to 24 hours for the product to work its magic. The wood will need to stay dry at every point and this is why it’s so important to do it while the good weather lasts.'

With that said, don't delay. Follow these three easy steps to prepare your patio furniture for their off-season, and rest easy knowing that they will be in perfect condition when the sun returns.

Distressed cast iron bench, vintage terracotta pots, the patina of a rusted watering can - we love a shabby chic backyard as much as the next person. What we don't love, however, is faded patio furniture that looks unloved and unkempt, resulting in a garden that looks neglected. 

It's easy to think your outdoor furniture is invincible - it's designed to live outside, after all - but if you want to keep it looking its best, you'll need to maintain it. Rain, wind, and frost can cause their own problems, but one of your worst enemies when it comes to the upkeep of garden furniture is the sun. Since we mostly use it through the summer it's left to the peril of intense UV rays, with fading being a common problem. 

The thing is, patio furniture doesn't come cheap so if you want to keep it looking its best for more than a single summer, you'll want to know about the various way to stop it from fading. To help you, we asked some experts in garden furniture for their insights on keeping modern outdoor furniture looking fresh. Here's what they had to say. 

1. Store it properly

It might sound obvious, but the first step to well-kept patio furniture is storing it properly when not in use. Although we typically keep our garden seating outside through the whole summer, the sun can still be pretty powerful throughout the rest of the year too, so, if you're not using it through autumn and winter, be sure to store it away. 

'One way to do this is to use a protective cover when you’re not using it,' explains  Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture. Most modern furniture will come with a cover of some sort, but if you don't have one you could use a plain old tarp or a large general-purpose furniture cover like this one, from Amazon, which comes in different sizes. The benefit of these is they'll also protect from rain and frost, too. 

It's worth noting, however, that furniture covers aren't always foolproof. As Ben  Harvey, founder and CEO of Patio Productions, explains, 'they can fly off, water can still get in, and if they rip, they will be exposed to the sun'. Alternatively, you can always store your outdoor furniture in a garage or shed if you have one. 

2. Apply a sealant 

A physical cover is all well and good when your outdoor furniture isn't in use, but you'll need some form of protection during the long summer months, too, and failing to offer any is one of the worst outdoor furniture mistakes. 

One way to do this is with a sealant. 'For those metal or plastic comrades, we rely on a UV-resistant paint or finishing coat to keep their charm intact for ages,' explains Wendy Wang, owner of F&J Outdoors. 'With our wooden buddies, you can count on UV-resistant sealants applied annually, like a yearly vaccine shot, to keep them in prime health.' 

A lot of metal outdoor furniture, such as aluminum or steel, already comes with a powder-coated finish for a layer of protection from the sun. Wooden furniture, however, will require more regular upkeep with a stain and sealant formula. 'A sealant is also designed to help not absorb excess moisture,' adds Ben. 'You only need to apply it once or twice a year, and you can leave your furniture out in the sun without it being impacted by the UV rays.' 

According to Raf, metal furniture should be treated with a protective coating or finish every few years to keep it from fading. 'For plastic furniture, you can use a specialized plastic cleaner to keep it looking its best,' he adds. We like this one, available at Amazon. 

3. Look out for solution-dyed fabric

By far one of the worst types of outdoor furniture for fading is upholstered fabrics. Just as they would inside your home, colored textiles are far more prone to fading when exposed to the elements.

'For our fabric friends, trust in solution-dyed fabrics and offer them the cozy comfort of outdoor furniture covers,' says Wendy. 'They're a great defense against the brutal sun, merciless rain, invasive dust, and piercing snow.' You'll need to ensure you look out for these specially developed fabrics from the best outdoor furniture brands, such as Sunbrella brand. For a regular refresh alongside this, you can also buy UV aerosol sprays which act like a sun lotion for soft materials. 

'If in doubt, it’s best to choose light or more neutral tones for seat cushions as if they do fade, it will be much less noticeable,' adds Ben. 

4. Clean regularly 

Last but not least, don't underestimate the wonders some general maintenance can do for your outdoor furniture. 

'Whatever the material of choice, you can extend your outdoor furniture's lifespan by bestowing some TLC with routine care and upkeep,' Wendy explains. 'Simple deeds like rinsing off harsh debris and grime, cleaning with the right sidekicks (cleaners), and tucking them into safe storage during harsh weather will work miracles.' Cleaning outdoor furniture with salt is also a super cheap, easy, and effective method that experts love. 

Summer's well and truly upon us, and if you haven't cleaned your outdoor furniture yet, it's probably overdue a refresh. Unlike our indoor dining table or chairs, patio sets need a little extra care and attention. Not only are they exposed to the elements, becoming more dirty more quickly, but they're made of different materials, so knowing what to clean them with can be a challenge. Fortunately though, you probably already have something stocked in your kitchen that's perfect for the job: salt. 

Whether you've only just hauled your patio chairs out of the shed for the summer or you're yet to clean up properly after your 4th July barbecue, it's a good idea to give your modern outdoor furniture the refresh it deserves, and this household ingredient is all you need for the job. 

We asked a cleaning expert how to use salt as a cleaning formula and which materials it's safe to use it on (including those that aren't). Here's what she had to say. 

How to clean outdoor furniture with salt

When it comes to cleaning your outdoor furniture with salt, it's not quite as easy as waving your salt shaker over your table and chairs as you would your plate of fries. That said, it's still pretty simple, and just as quick (almost). 

'The easiest way to clean furniture with salt is to mix it with water or lemon juice to create a paste,' says Prerna Jain, a professional cleaner and founder of Ministry Of Cleaning. 'Apply the paste to a sponge or cloth and gently scrub the furniture surface. The salt acts as a natural abrasive, helping to remove stubborn stains and dirt.'

According to Prerna, salt can also be used to help remove rust from metal furniture in your backyard. For this, she suggests a mixture of salt and lemon juice or vinegar to form a paste. 'Apply the paste to the rusted areas and let it sit for a few hours, then scrub the rusted areas with a brush or sponge,' she says. 'The salt's abrasive nature, combined with the acidic properties of lemon juice or vinegar, helps dissolve and remove the rust.'

For an extra cleaning boost, you can also leave salt-coated furniture in direct sunlight for a few hours. 'The combination of salt and sunlight can help break down stains and enhance the cleaning process,' adds Prerna. 

Can you use salt to clean upholstered outdoor furniture? 

If you've been keeping up with outdoor furniture trends, it's likely you've incorporated some plush cushioning into your backyard seating. If your patio furniture is upholstered with outdoor cushions, these can usually be removed and washed as normal in your washing machine. If you're looking for a quicker fix, however, salt has you covered. 

'You can sprinkle salt on upholstery or cushions, leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it off,' suggests Prerna. Besides being quicker and saving money on the cost of running your washing machine, another advantage of this is that the salt has natural deodorizing properties. As Prerna explains, 'the salt will absorb odors, leaving your outdoor furniture smelling fresh'. It will also prevent the growth of mold and mildew on your outdoor furniture cushions, too.

What materials should you avoid cleaning with salt? 

As a natural ingredient, salt is generally safe to use as a cleaning agent on most outdoor furniture, but when used as a liquid solution there are a few materials it's worth steering clear of. 

'It's best to avoid using salt on aluminum furniture, as it can cause pitting or corrosion,' explains Prerna. 'Similarly, be cautious when using salt on delicate materials like natural wicker or rattan as excessive scrubbing or salt residue can cause damage.' Wooden furniture could also become discolored if you use a salt solution on it regularly, so stick to a damp cloth and a mild soapy solution instead. 

Want to give your outdoor space a fresh, new look? Consider mixing and matching the furniture, instead of buying ready sets from retailers. This will give your porch or patio a layered look, and create a more inviting vibe. 

What's more, it'll also encourage you to add your personal design touch to the outdoors – an area where we're less prone to think decoratively, even when choosing modern outdoor furniture.

To help you through the process, we decided to ask top designers on how to get the mix-and-match look right. Pros offer advice on blending elements in the same open-air space, making each piece stand out yet look cohesive. It's time to transform your backyard!

1. Mix furniture materials

Get into the mind of a designer and think of how you can make your modern outdoor furniture look like a well-curated and conceptualized set. Give the materials some thought and consider mixing them in three different finishes. For instance, woven materials such as rattan work great with teak and even concrete finishes. A woven sofa, lounge chairs, and teak table can give the outdoors a cohesive look while refraining from looking too matchy.

'The plastic chairs and table are from Vondom,' says David Marlatt, founder of DNM Architecture. 'We chose these pieces because they were distinctly modern, light and very practical. They fit the indoor/outdoor fireplace perfectly. I designed/built the wood benches and table from Fir 6x6 posts and planks recovered from my previous house about 25 years ago. It is a straightforward and solid expression of its materials, and also practical and comfortable for four people.'

'Lightweight modern metal frame lounge furniture mixes nicely with a more traditional and heavy wood frame dining table and chairs,' says Julia Mack, founder of Julia Mack Design.

'Your table and chairs do not have to be from the same collection; we love mixing up the styles of the tables in comparison to the chairs,' adds Shona McElroy, principal at Smac Studio. 'For example, a rustic farm table with French steel chairs with fun seat cushions.'

2. Limit the colors

'A key consideration for your outdoor entertainment area is to coordinate colors and patterns so the space looks organized and cohesive, just like indoors,' says Jane Lockhart, founder of Jane Lockhart Design. 'If you want to accent with a color or two, carry those throughout the outdoor living room and don't change to another color part way through: commit.'

3. Consider mixing different patterns

To mix and match patterns in outdoor seating, think about prints if different sizes. Large-scale pattern styles can be the dominant pattern, used on large sofas and loungers, and medium or smaller-scale patterns can be used as accents on pillows. For instance, chevron or herringbone patterns are versatile but can be overwhelming in large quantities, so use these on throws or ottomans.

'In terms of pattern, you really can go for anything; it depends on the vibe you want,' says Shona. 'For example if want the south of France to look perhaps go for one large color and white stripe, and keep the rest tonal with the color or the white. If you want a Moroccan look, chuck in as many patterns as you want, if you want modern black can be a great base. I'd also encourage really to play with external upholstered cushions and large tablecloths that you can put away and bring out for occasions, go for fringing and piping and pattern.'

4. Add in varied accessories

Make your big or small backyard a well-decorated and designed space with the inclusion of accessories. These tiny yet effective elements can add a lovely mix-and-match dose to the area, and enrich it with color and material. A great alternative when you aren't looking to create a mix-and-match look with larger furniture pieces.

Think of copper or glass candle stands, rattan floor lamps,  bright flowers, stone plant pots, and interesting table settings – all working to highlight accents and draw distinct pieces together.

'It’s oftentimes nice to mix and match different furniture and decorative accessory styles, giving your space a unique and personal touch,' says Julia. 'Consider adding vintage cast iron or terracotta planters, urns or plant stands to your space. They will add an eclectic vibe and give you a variety of sizes and shapes to show off your seasonal potted plants.'

'Though some outdoor furniture comes in sets, you can always mix and match them with other items to make it feel like you didn't just run to the store and just get whatever was there,' says Linda Hayslett, founder of LH.Designs. 'Getting separate pieces such as side tables in different materials than the furniture pieces bought, adding in accessories such as an outdoor rug or ottomans, can help a space look curated and not store bought for the season.'

5. Play with shapes 

Finishes, colors, and patterns aside, another way to add a subtle yet unique touch to the terrace, porch, or backyard deck is with furniture in different shapes. The interplay of interesting shapes will not only add interest to the area but also layering and depth. Think of a long curving chaise paired with a straight-lined chair. An oval, low table paired with tall stools. 

'If your space is vast and you're using a lot of different shapes, then to break your space into a series of smaller ‘rooms’ is advisable,' says Julia. 'This can easily be accomplished by strategically placing furniture into groupings of like-minded activities. Dining for four is nice at a rectangular table and dining for five or more works well at a small round table. Casual dining and socializing for a crowd are nice when there is a variety of seating options. Consider an outdoor sofa and lounge chairs plus a nearby, more formal dining table and chairs. Bring in different shapes like a curving seater for lounging and high back chairs for dining, so you have an interesting yet coordinated outdoor area.'

While your patio furniture may not be used as much in the fall or winter months, you still need to ensure it is well taken care of, to ensure it lasts until next season at least. By leaving it completely unattended and by not winterizing the pieces properly, your precious dining or lounge sets could get damaged. This is because many furniture materials aren’t meant to go through the freezing and thawing, along with snow, sleet, and rain, that comes with winter.

To help you understand what type of furniture can last longer and how to take care of it, we spoke to top designers for advice. Pay heed to these key suggestions and ensure your backyard and patio furniture is always in peak condition for years to come.

What patio furniture can be left outside in the winter?

If you spend a lot of your time in your outdoors during spring and summer, you must invest in quality modern outdoor furniture so it can last you year after year. Purchasing well-designed and thought-out furniture with durable materials also means you can relax, and don't need to dedicate too much time to maintaining or restoring them. Whether you have a patio, balcony, or backyard, your outdoor living room setup has the potential to last 5 to 10 years down the road.

'When it comes to outdoor furniture, certain materials are more durable and require less maintenance than others,' says Kashi Shikunova, director of Yam Studios. 'While high-quality teak or cedar wood can withstand outdoor conditions relatively well, they still need regular attention to maintain their appearance and durability. On the other hand, aluminum or concrete is generally more resistant to damage from exterior elements. Items such as tables, which don't have upholstery, can typically be left outdoors for long periods without significant concerns.'

For your wooden furniture, remember to add a weather sealant to the piece and an all-weather varnish to help keep it resistant to weather and UV rays. Also remember to sand the old varnish off, especially when it begins to peel or becomes yellow. 

What type of patio furniture is the most weather resistant?

'Powder-coated aluminum furniture is renowned for its exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor settings,' says Kashi. 'Unlike wood, which requires protection from the elements and regular upkeep, powder-coated aluminum can withstand the challenges posed by winter and wet environments. Its resilient nature ensures that it remains intact and unaffected by moisture. However, when it comes to upholstery, it is always advisable to store it away, even if you are using outdoor fabrics. Prolonged exposure to the elements can lead to the development of stains and other undesirable effects.'

Aluminium aside, concrete too is a great exterior furniture piece that can be left outside in the winter without risking damage. The material is resistant to scratching, chipping or cracking. Using concrete furniture is a big outdoor furniture trend at the moment. 

Teak wood is great for places that experience extremely hot summer days and cold, wet winter months. The furniture is usually finished in natural oils that make it resistant to water damage, warping, rotting, cracking, or weakening. And so, the furniture will stand strong through severe winter storms, heavy winds, and freezing temperatures.

How can you keep furniture protected from the elements? 

Move all your outdoor dining and living room furniture to a safe place during the harsh winter months.

'Taking care of your patio furniture in the winter is an important step in prolonging the life of these purchases,' says Julia Mack, founder of Julia Mack Design. 'Select a dry location in your cellar, garage, or patio and cover your pieces with either nylon or plastic – be certain to not bind the covering too tightly around each piece. Ideally, leave some breathing room around each piece, especially if your furniture frames are constructed of wood or composite wood and your cushions are a composite foam core. If your storage space is susceptible to climate and humidity fluctuations, your furniture may warp or become moldy, making springtime cleanup a long process, so store your pieces carefully and check on them occasionally throughout the winter months.'

'Covers protect against adverse weather conditions, including rain and UV rays, which can cause damage over time,' says Kashi. 'It's especially beneficial to have a waterproof storage box for cushions and upholstery items. Storing them away during the winter months helps to safeguard them from moisture and potential stains, ensuring they remain in excellent condition for future use.'

What furniture should you not keep in the outdoors?

Amongst the many pieces that should not be left outside in the winter is wicker, as water can easily penetrate it, and when that water freezes, it expands, breaking the furniture piece. Your best bet is to cover this type of furniture and put it into storage.

Another furniture material that shouldn't be used in a large or small modern patio is steel. Furniture made in this cannot be left outside all winter long, as harsh snow and sleet can scratch its surface. If you paint over it, the cold conditions can cause the paint to crack, and water that gets within those cracks can cause rust.

Glass-topped tables should also be moved inside during the winter. This delicate material does not stand up well against the weather and can break easily.