
Spring is on the horizon, and so are outdoor dinner parties and evenings around the fire pit. Our expert home editors scouted out the best patio furniture that will make your outdoor space comfortable for gathering while withstanding the elements to stay in tip-top shape when not in use. From weather-resistant woven-wicker sets to our favorite offset umbrellas, these stylish, durable outdoor pieces will make the most of your space, regardless of the time of year.
Both functional and sophisticated, we rounded up the best patio furniture to elevate your outdoor … [+] space for family gatherings, parties and everything in between.
According to senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone, now is the perfect time to invest in new patio furniture. “While warmer weather won’t arrive for another month or two, the winter typically brings good patio furniture deals as retailers try to drum up interest while demand is low,” she says. “Plus, you’ll be less likely to deal with shipping delays than in the spring and summer, when you could get stuck waiting weeks for your new pieces to arrive.” Below, find 22 of our favorite picks for the best patio furniture in 2025—many of which are used or have been tested by Forbes Vetted’s home and outdoor team.
- Best Patio Furniture Overall: Polywood Lakeside Collection
- Best Value Patio Furniture: Christopher Knight Home Carolina Sofa Set
- Best Wicker Patio Furniture: Neighbor Roundabout Collection
- Best Aluminum Patio Furniture: Outer Aluminum Collection
- Best Weather-Resistant Patio Furniture: Frontgate Isola Collection
- Best Patio Chair: Frontgate Rowan Adirondack Chair
- Best Patio Dining Furniture: Yardbird Lily 5-Piece Round Dining Set
- Best Patio Sofa: West Elm Caldera Sofa
- Best Patio Umbrella: Purple Leaf Round Offset Umbrella
- Best Patio Rug: Frontgate Britta Indoor/Outdoor Rug
USA-Made
POLYWOOD
Lakeside 4-Piece Deep Seating Set
Materials: Recycled HDPE, performance fabric | Colors: 10 total, including Slate Grey and Black | Warranty: 20-year limited warranty
Best for:
- Those who want low-maintenance, high-quality patio furniture
- Deep, supportive seating
- Windy climates
Skip if:
- You don’t want to go through the tricky assembly
Whether your family likes having breakfast outside or having company over for outdoor drinks, this weather-resistant four-piece set by Polywood—a brand known for its durable materials—is the perfect setup. The deep-seat collection includes two chairs, one loveseat and one coffee table, all furnished with weather-resistant, quick-dry cushions made from performance fabric. The biggest highlight, though, is their Polywood Lumber construction; this lumber is made from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that’s designed to hold up against sun, salt and moisture. And don’t just take our word for it—two of our outdoor furniture experts point to HDPE as one of the most non-porous, long-lasting and sustainable materials for patio furniture.
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Christopher Knight Home Carolina Sofa Set
Materials: Eucalyptus wood, polyester | Colors: 2 total, including Brown and Cream | Warranty: 2-year furniture protection plan for an additional $55
Best for:
- Budget-savvy shoppers who want a high-quality patio set
- Those who want furniture that’s easy to assemble
- Those who don’t mind that the cushions easily stain
Skip if:
- Those who want a lower-maintenance set
This acacia wood sofa set from Christopher Knight Home is conveniently available through Amazon, and it comes at an incredibly reasonable price. The loveseat and chairs come with cream-colored cushions that are easy to clean—just toss the polyester covers in the washing machine. The set’s pared-down design makes it ideal for more compact spaces, and reviewers say that it’s easy to put together. However, if you plan on keeping it outdoors throughout the seasons, you should invest in a furniture wax to protect the wood.
Wayfair
Lark Manor Allieana 4-Person Seating Group
Materials: Acacia wood, polyester | Colors: 3 total, including Cream and Blue | Warranty: 90-day limited warranty
Best for:
- Families and small groups who enjoy socializing outdoors
- Those who like bright-colored cushions
- Shoppers looking for a set that can be rearranged
Skip if:
- You want cream-colored cushions to stay pristine
This outdoor furniture set is fashioned from sleek acacia wood, which is both durable and elegant-looking. The four-person sofa consists of six sectional pieces, each complete with water-resistant cushions made of polyester. Meanwhile, a generously sized square table holds appetizers, drinks and more. In addition to neutral Cream, the cushions also come in more vibrant shades of Blue and Green.
neighbor
Neighbor Roundabout Chair
Materials: Synthetic wicker, Sunbrella, aluminum, high-performance foam | Colors: 3 total, including Olive and Charcoal | Warranty: 5-year (fabric), 3-year (frame and hardware)
Best for:
- Those who want extra-deep, plush seats
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Those who want a woven-wicker look that’s still durable
Skip if:
- Shoppers on a strict budget
Neighbor’s Roundabout collection is a solid woven choice, thanks to its combination of weather-resistant synthetic rattan, an aluminum frame, marine-grade hardware, and cushions made from quick-to-dry foam and Sunbrella fabric. But its extra-sturdy construction doesn’t mean it isn’t comfy—the seating is deep, the cushions are wide and plush and the fabric texture is soft to the touch. Our favorite part: You get 45 days to decide if the furniture is right for you.
outer
Outer Aluminum Armchair Conversation Set
Materials: Aluminum, foam, OuterShell (patented weather-resistant fabric), OuterWeave (recycled performance fabric) | Colors: 5 total, including Pacific Fog Gray and Deep Sea Navy | Warranty: 10-year limited (frame), 5-year limited (cushions)
Best for:
- Families and small groups who enjoy socializing outdoors
- Shoppers looking for the lowest-maintenance, longest-lasting option
- Those who want cushions that are easy to cover and transport
Skip if:
- You’re on a strict budget
Lightweight, stylish, weather-proof and comfortable: Outer’s modular aluminum collection checks off several criteria that make it one of the best patio furniture you can buy (and reviewers say that this makes it worth the considerable investment). These pieces’ most attractive features are the two patented materials they’re made with: the built-in OuterShell covers, a weather-resistant cover with Velcro and handles for protection and portability; and removable OuterWeave, which covers the cushions and is machine-washable and fade-resistant. Other highlights include a customizable modular design, lounge-worthy foam cushions and the option to try free fabric swatches.
Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Ashley Furniture Nuu Garden 3-Piece Bistro Set
Materials: Aluminum | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Best for:
- Smaller patios
- Fans of a vintage, retro look
- Those who want to install a market umbrella into the table
Skip if:
- You want a dining set with cushioning
Ashley Furniture is a trusted retailer that covers every room in the home, including outdoor spaces. Our advice: Take a look at the brand’s affordable bistro sets, like the metal one here. They’re quintessentially Parisian with classic, just-ornate-enough details. Made of cast aluminum with an anti-rust coating, the chairs and table have a distinctly vintage look that will retain its charming luster over time.
Frontgate
Frontgate Isola 3-Piece Loveseat Set
Materials: Wicker, teak wood | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
Best for:
- Smaller groups who prefer intimate, relaxed get-togethers
- Shoppers who want both a woven and wood aesthetic
- Those who want a set that’ll last for years and years
Skip if:
- You mind the discoloration to teak that comes with time
If a wooden look is more your speed, Frontgate’s teak outdoor collection will give your patio a beachy, coastal vibe—while nicely standing up to the elements. This three-piece loveseat set is made with wide-woven wicker and rich teak wood, both of which add to that relaxed feeling. While Frontgate’s furnishings are certainly luxurious, they don’t feel stuffy or highbrow. Add a few patterned throw pillows to infuse the set with your own personality, or go minimal with a cushion-free look.
frontgate
Frontgate Rowan Adirondack Chair
Materials: Teak wood, stainless steel | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
Best for:
- Those who appreciate excellent craftsmanship and quality
- Fans of that distinct aged-teak color
- Shoppers looking for solidly built, high-quality furniture
Skip if:
- You want something that doesn’t require much assembly
Topping the list in Forbes Vetted’s best Adirondack chairs roundup, this piece from Frontgate lives up to its luxury price tag. With a high-quality teak frame that’s been pre-weathered for a lived-in look, this timeless chair makes any outdoor space feel more put-together. The kiln-dried wood is naturally resistant to mildew, so it’ll keep its good looks over time. (Pro tip: We recommend adding on the matching Rowan Adirondack Ottoman.)
Breeo
Breeo X Series Chair
Materials: Poly lumber, stainless steel | Colors: 4 total, including Gray and Antique Mahogany | Warranty: 5-year warranty from purchase date
Best for:
- Fire pit owners
- Those who like to remain upright when relaxing outside
- Those who have trouble getting out of traditional Adirondacks
Skip if:
- You’re on a strict budget
This hard-wearing piece from Breeo resembles an Adirondack chair, except it doesn’t lean so far back, allowing your whole body to remain closer to your fire pit. Even if you don’t have a roaring bonfire going, this chair is a winner; it’s made of poly lumber, a synthetic, recycled plastic that resembles real wood but is actually one of the easiest materials to maintain.“The Breeo X Series was easy to put together and has held up beautifully after several seasons,” says senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. “I also love that it emulates the classic Adirondack chair style, except with a smart fire pit-friendly design; it’s also comfortable to sit in and easy to get in and out of.” Further, Breeo makes an adorable kid-sized version so the whole family can enjoy relaxing outdoors. You can also outfit this chair with Breeo’s accessories, which include a cupholder and serving tray.
yardbird
Yardbird Lily 5-Piece Round Outdoor Dining Set
Materials: Powder-coated aluminum, Sunbrella | Colors: 2 total, including Shale and Milano | Warranty: 3-year (craftsmanship), 5-year (Sunbrella), 10-year (frames)
Best for:
- Those who want a dining table with an umbrella hole
- Shoppers who prefer dining chairs that can stack
- Fans of the lattice-back design
Skip if:
- You want more color options
Looking for an elegant dining set that’s also durable and low-maintenance? Yardbird’s Lily five-piece dining set (the top overall pick in our Best Patio Dining Sets story) will serve you well. The collection consists of a round dining table and four chairs with a timeless lattice-back design; they’re constructed with rust-proof aluminum that’s finished with an attractive coffee-brown powder finish. What’s more, the chairs come with cushions (you can choose from one of two colors), and the dining table has a market umbrella hole built in.
Article
Article Svelti Dining Chair
Materials: Polypropylene, metal | Colors: 9 total, including Aloe Green and Dusty Pink | Warranty: 1-year warranty from delivery date
Best for:
- Those who want to infuse their space with a pop of color
- Shoppers looking for a good mix of style and function
- Those who want a versatile chair that works almost anywhere
Skip if:
- It’s a dealbreaker that some of the colors don’t exactly match their photos
Made of durable, UV-resistant plastic, this modern dining chair adds a touch of minimalist cool to any patio or balcony. “I’ve owned these indoor/outdoor chairs from Article for nearly four years, and I still love them as much as when we first bought them,” says executive director Cory Baldwin. “They’ve held up great on my outdoor patio and look right at home in my dining room when we need extra seating.” The Svelti comes in a wide range of colors such as Aloe Green, Daisy Yellow and Berry Blue, so you can infuse your outdoor space with your favorite hue. Prefer more arm support? There’s a version with armrests too. While elegant, the thin metal legs aren’t the best choice for using directly on a lawn or a deck with thinner slats.
West Elm
West Elm Caldera Sofa
Materials: Aluminum, olefin, foam | Colors: Gray | Warranty: 3-year Allstate protection plan for an additional $300
Best for:
- Design mavens who like modern, minimalist patio furniture
- Those who don’t mind that aluminum may get hot in direct sunlight
- Shoppers who want comfortable cushions that are easy to clean
Skip if:
- You want more cushion color choices without an extra fee
If you’re looking to add a modern edge to your patio, you should consider this sleek choice from West Elm. The rustproof aluminum frame is accompanied by weather-resistant Olefin cushions in a neutral gray shade, but you can also purchase Sunbrella cushion covers in other hues like Charcoal and Ocean. Smooth, rounded corners give this couch a particularly inviting feel, inspiring you to kick back and relax for a while.
West Elm
West Elm Westport 3-Piece Sectional
Materials: All-weather wicker, fabric, polyester | Colors: Alabaster | Warranty: 3-year Allstate protection plan for an additional $430
Best for:
- Families of five
- Those who like the woven look of natural wicker
- People who often have guests over
Skip if:
- You’re on a tight budget
Made of all-weather synthetic wicker sourced from recycled materials, this L-shaped sofa from West Elm topped our list of the best outdoor sectionals. Unlike natural wicker, which can fade and crack in sunny climates, all-weather wicker is durable and resists wear over time. The laid-back sofa is equipped with wide arms that hold snack plates and drinks with ease, and its fluffy polyester-filled upholstery provides a comfy place to relax. The cushions are resistant to water, mold and mildew, but since they only come in a light Alabaster shade, keep in mind that they’ll take a bit of extra maintenance to keep looking fresh.
Wayfair
Purple Leaf Round Offset Umbrella
Materials: UV-resistant polyester, aluminum | Colors: 7 total, including Turquoise Blue and Brick Red | Warranty: 3-year warranty on fabric
Best for:
- Users who have large patio sets and need ample shade
- Those who want multiple adjustment options
- Withstanding windy climate
Skip if:
- You have a smaller outdoor space
This patio umbrella is our home editors’ designated best cantilever umbrella overall because of its unparalleled wind resistance and stability during its weeks-long testing period. “Although the heavy-duty construction did make the umbrella a bit harder to set up, the tradeoff is worth it,” says a Forbes Vetted product tester. “This umbrella was the most stable of all the models I tested, and seemed like it would last the longest—especially since it came with a cover for use in the off-season.”
The key lies in the sturdy aluminum frame that supports the umbrella canopy, which is made with weatherproof performance polyester and aluminum “bones.” Its impressive size and solid construction don’t hinder it from being user-friendly—it has an intuitive handle that lets you open and close the canopy and tilt it to several angles. A crank, meanwhile, allows it to rotate a full 360 degrees. (Note: This umbrella’s base is sold separately.)
Patio Living
Treasure Garden 9-Foot Umbrella
Materials: Aluminum, polyester or Sunbrella | Colors: 30 total, including Aqua and Sand | Warranty: None
Best for:
- Those who want coverage for their patio sets
- Shoppers who prefer a market umbrella over offset ones
- An intuitive, no-frills operation
Skip if:
- You’re looking for an easy-to-clean option
For patios without a lot of shade, a large, a sweeping umbrella makes a huge difference in how comfortable your seating area is. This 9-foot pick, which we also named the best patio umbrella after rigorous testing, is made of sun- and water-resistant fabric. “It has a classic appearance that will look good on any patio, and of all the umbrellas I tested, it had the best features for the price,” says our tester. For added convenience, there’s a manual crank that allows you to tilt the umbrella up to 30 degrees. There are several hues to pick from, including Cobalt, Khaki and Forest Green.
frontgate
Frontgate Britta Indoor/Outdoor Rug
Materials: Polypropylene | Colors: Gray | Warranty: 1-year warranty
Best for:
- Fans of a woven look and subtle patterns
- Those who want a colorfast option
- Shoppers looking for a cozy touch to their outdoor space
Skip if:
- You don’t want the hassle of extra cleaning and maintenance
Those seeking a cozy outdoor rug to pull your patio pieces together will find Frontgate’s Britta Indoor/Outdoor Rug a worthy choice. (It also has our home editors’ stamp of approval as the best outdoor rug overall.) Made from UV-proof polypropylene, a synthetic material that will hold onto color while resisting mold and mildew, the Britta also manages to look chic thanks to its minimal diamond pattern and woven design. Maintaining it is easy, too: Make sure to regularly vacuum it, or hose-spray and air-dry it if you need a deeper clean. (We recommend including the corresponding outdoor rug pad to your purchase to keep the Britta in place and help with water drainage.)
Amazon
Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
Materials: Stainless steel | Colors: 8 total, including Bronze and Ash | Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Best for:
- Evening gatherings
- Roasting marshmallows and hot dogs
- Those who are irritated by bonfire smoke
Skip if:
- You don’t use your patio space at night
The Solo Stove 2.0 earned the top spot in our tested roundup of the best fire pits; our tester Molly Allen found it to be incredibly easy to set up. In her experience, one of the most impressive aspects of this model was its ability to filter out the irritating smoke that typically accompanies wood-burning fire pits. “Through testing, I found that the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Fire Pit smokeless fire pit not only eliminated smoke, but it also offered an impressive heat output while being lightweight and versatile enough to use in the backyard or for camping,” she says. The stainless steel body is weather-resistant, and it has a removable ash pan that makes maintenance a breeze.
vivere
Vivere Hammock With Stand
Materials: Polyester, cotton or Sunbrella (steel stand) | Colors: 10 total, including Cayo Reef and Mimosa | Warranty: 1-year warranty
Best for:
- Shoppers who want a hammock they can set up anywhere
- Families with kids who love hammocks
- Those who prefer a quick, tool-less assembly
Skip if:
- You don’t like feeling cocooned when you relax
The Vivere Double Hammock, one of our home editors’ top picks with a stand in our best hammocks story, is a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxing place to lounge that isn’t necessarily a sofa or armchair. While we think of hammocks as only working in areas with trees, the Vivere Double comes with a 9-foot steel stand so you can hang it anywhere in your outdoor space. You can choose from a variety of fabric materials, including polyester, cotton and Sunbrella. Executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who tested the polyester version of the Vivere hammock for multiple weeks, shares that the setup was very straightforward: “I did it alone, and it took about 10 minutes.” She also highlighted how comfortable it was to lounge in, though she notes that individuals over 200 pounds might have a harder time finding a comfortable position.
Editor’s Pick
L.L.Bean
L.L. Bean Quilted Sunbrella Hammock
Materials: Acrylic fabric, steel, polyester | Colors: 2 total, including Navy/Gray and Green/Sand | Warranty: None
Best for:
- Those who enjoy outdoor naps and lengthy lounging sessions
- Shoppers who want a reversible option
- Those who prefer solid hammocks over rope ones
Skip if:
- You live in Vermont or Nevada (not available for shipping there)
While it may be an unconventional choice for lounge furniture, this quilted hammock will quickly become your new favorite resting spot. “This hammock is an ideal place to read and nap on sunnier days,” says editorial director Brinda Ayer. “Like with so many L.L. Bean products, the construction of this hammock is solid and feels extremely durable; I’m not worried about rolling around or having the supporting ropes fray or snap.” Made of fade- and mildew-resistant acrylic fabric, the hard-wearing hammock stands up to spills like a champ. Plus, the fabric is reversible if you need a change of scenery (the multi colors have a solid-colored reverse side). You can mount it between two trees or wooden beams, but we recommend picking up the accompanying hammock stand, which is sold separately.
USA-Made
Room & Board
Room & Board Montego Sofa
Materials: Thermally modified ash, stainless steel, CertiPUR-US-certified foam, fiber | Colors: 40 total, including Mist Putty and Pelham Blossom | Warranty: Good-faith guarantee
Best for:
- Those who like to lounge outside
- Shoppers looking to add a sophisticated touch to their space
- Fans of sustainable materials and the color of aged ash
Skip if:
- You’re on a strict budget
- You don’t want the color of your furniture to change
If you want to add an elegant flair to your outdoor space, it doesn’t get any better than Room & Board’s selection. The brand is known for its American-crafted, sustainably sourced furniture, and that includes its outdoor pieces. The Montego collection is one of our favorites for its weather resistance, durability and style. Expertly hand-welded with a stainless steel frame, this sofa is made with thermally modified ash that is non-porous and waterproof; in addition to being durable and sustainable, it also turns into an attractive silver-gray as it ages. The loose cushions, meanwhile, are made with high-density foam and fiber and wrapped in a water-repellent fabric.
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn Abbott Ultimate Bar
Materials: Concrete, acacia wood | Colors: 2 total, including Gray Wash and Brown | Warranty: None
Best for:
- Entertainers who enjoy whipping up cocktails for guests
- Shoppers who seek a polished look for their outdoor bar
- Those who have uneven floors (it has adjustable levers)
Skip if:
- You’re on a strict budget
If you have the budget, Pottery Barn’s always-on-trend collections are not to be missed. This outdoor bar is made with sleek, kiln-dried acacia wood and durable concrete, effortlessly combining form with function. It’s all in the details: An integrated bottle opener, towel hooks and drawers are provided to assist you as you whip up drinks for your guests.
Amazon
Ultcover Patio Covers
Materials: Polyester canvas | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Brown | Warranty: 5-year warranty
Best for:
- Shoppers looking for a cover that will stay on in any weather
- Those looking for specific dimensions
- Those looking for a heavy-duty cover at a reasonable price
Skip if:
- You want something that will last longer than a few years in heavy, direct sunlight
No matter how weather-proof and sturdy your patio furniture is, you’ll probably still want to invest in a quality cover to keep it in the best shape when it’s not in use. Ultcover’s options are Forbes Vetted’s pick for the best outdoor furniture covers overall due to the variety of sizes, durable 600-denier waterproof polyester construction, and included hardware to help keep them in place. Plus, we like the thoughtful details, like structured side vents to keep the cover from ballooning in windy weather, as well as corners you can adjust for height.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we’ve researched and written dozens of shopping guides for our home vertical; this includes our robust catalog of outdoor stories.
- All stages of publication were overseen by Forbes Vetted’s seasoned home editorial team: deputy editor Rebekah Lowin, senior editor Amanda Arnold and editor Sholeen Damarwala.
- Our staff has extensively reported on (and in some cases, rigorously tested) a wide range of outdoor furniture, including outdoor sofas, outdoor rugs and patio umbrellas.
- In addition, we consulted with senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone for her expert advice on when to shop the best patio furniture deals.
- This article is regularly updated to ensure our selections are still the best in their respective categories. Lifestyle writer Claire Epting refreshed this story in February 2025.
Meet Our Experts
We also consulted the following interior designers and home furniture experts to inform this story:
- Milly McEwan, product and design manager at RJ Living, an Australian furniture company,
- Elise Nicpon, an outdoor furniture expert and the director of customer experience for Minneapolis-based furniture retailer Room & Board,
- Todd Proctor, sales and service manager of Leisure Living, a company owned by Salt Lake City-based Christy Sports.
How We Chose The Best Patio Furniture
To help you find the best patio furniture for your particular outdoor space and aesthetic, our team interviewed experts, pored over several top-rated options and scanned scores of user reviews.
- Our editorial staff focused on the most customer-loved, best-selling products from trusted outdoor furniture brands, including Pottery Barn, Frontgate, Room & Board, West Elm and more.
- We tapped members of our team for their firsthand patio furniture recommendations, which include L.L. Bean’s Quilted Hammock, the Breeo X Series Chair and Treasure Garden’s 9-Foot Umbrella.
- We consulted three outdoor furniture experts for their top considerations when shopping for patio pieces, as well as their answers to frequently asked questions.
- We evaluated each patio piece based on several considerations, including comfort, durability, style and ease of maintenance. We also considered materials, color choices and warranties, as well as the ideal use case for each piece.
- All our recommendations have garnered an average rating of at least 4 stars from users; our final list comprises a variety of furniture styles at different price points.
What To Look For In Patio Furniture
When it comes to shopping for the right patio furniture for your space and budget, there are several key factors to consider. Elise Nicpon, an outdoor furniture expert and the director of customer experience with Room & Board, says, “You want to ensure your outdoor furniture is weather-resistant, durable and low maintenance.” Here’s what to keep in mind while shopping.
Materials
One of the biggest considerations when shopping for patio furniture is what materials it’s constructed with, and this applies even if your patio is covered. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular materials you’ll see in patio furniture:
- Steel: Steel is strong and dense, which means patio furniture made out of this metal will hold up to heavy weights and strong winds. If you’re concerned about corrosion, opt for stainless steel, which is resistant to rust.
- Aluminum: Aluminum furniture is easy to maintain, since it naturally resists moisture and rust. It’s also lighter in weight than steel, which can be convenient when it comes to moving your patio furniture around; however, it may not stand up to powerful winds.
- Iron: Todd Proctor, sales and service manager of Leisure Living (owned by Christy Sports), adds that iron or wrought-iron patio furniture is another worthy option if you live in low-humidity, high-wind climates, since its heaviness means your furniture won’t slide around your patio. However, he warns that “no matter how well iron furniture is painted, and no matter how well you clean and dry this furniture, it is guaranteed to rust” in wet climates.
- Wood: Those who prefer the warm look of wood patio furniture also have plenty of natural or synthetic options. Both Proctor and Milly McEwan, product and design manager at Australian furniture company RJ Living, say teak is one of the most durable types of lumber. Says McEwan, “Teak is a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decay—meaning it will survive for years without much maintenance.” Proctor says, “[It] will weather to a beautiful silver gray if left alone. [It] will develop a velvet-like feel to the touch.” Poly lumber is a type of HDPE that gives you the warm, welcoming look of wood furniture without the added maintenance.
- Wicker: If you prefer a woven look, Proctor says that wicker isn’t a material you’ll want to skimp on; you should also steer clear of it if you live in a very sunny area. Proctor says that most brands have replaced natural wicker with synthetic HDPE, which lasts longer than its natural counterpart, doesn’t need to be painted and is environmentally friendly.
- Thermally modified ash: Nicpon says thermally modified ash is one of the most non-porous, durable and sustainable furniture materials out there. She tells us, “Thermally modified ash, a weather-resistant material that ages to a beautiful silver-gray color, comes from a combination of sustainably managed U.S. forests and fallen urban ash trees.”
Climate
The climate you live in greatly determines the type of patio furniture you should look for. For instance, if you live in a very sunny area, we recommend teak, thermally modified ash or high-quality synthetic wicker. Avoid cheaper wicker furniture or uncoated iron options; the former will fail in as little as one year in consistent direct sunlight, according to Proctor; the iron might become too hot to comfortably sit in.
Aluminum and iron patio furniture, as well as HDPE, excel in windy climates since they tend be heavier; the latter is great for people who want a wooden look but also something that is weather-proof, more solidly constructed and low-maintenance.
Your Space
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to purchase pieces that won’t be too big for your space; this includes knowing what works with your patio’s layout, how many people you plan on entertaining, and how many places and seats you’ll need. “The placement of the furniture you do have and the placement of plants, trees, poles and pillars will all play a part when it comes to picking the right [patio furniture] for your space,” says McEwan. For example, “If you have a more narrow patio, then you will likely be looking for smaller or more streamlined pieces of furniture to make sure they don’t take up too much space,” she adds.
Maintenance
There’s no way to avoid it: Because patio furniture is predominantly used outdoors, you’ll simply have to clean it more often than your indoor pieces. That said, you can choose a material that matches your aesthetic while still putting in the level of maintenance you prefer. Teak—whose natural oils and non-porous nature help protect it from moisture, insects and rot—doesn’t require much maintenance (as long as you don’t mind the color change that occurs as part of its natural aging process).
Aluminum and resin wicker are also easy to maintain if your aesthetic hews more closely to those materials. McEwan says, “[Aluminum] is essentially rust-resistant and can easily look brand new with a quick wipe-down. Resin wicker, because it’s a synthetic material, will resist moisture and dirt, making it easy to quickly hose off or wipe down with a mild soap and water mix.” Another good option if you don’t mind synthetic materials is HDPE or poly lumber; since it’s colored all the way through, it won’t need to be touched up if it gets scratched, Proctor says.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Type Of Patio Furniture Is The Most Weather Resistant?
Patio furniture made of teak wood, aluminum and HDPE is durable and can stand up to the elements. Teak has the highest decay resistance of any natural wood: “[It’s] a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decay—meaning it will survive for years without much maintenance,” says McEwan. Aluminum is a great metal option since it’s rust-proof and can withstand hot temperatures. When built correctly, [aluminum] is just as strong as any iron furniture but has the advantage of no rust, and it is generally lighter weight,” Proctor says. HDPE, also known as resin wicker or poly lumber, is a synthetic material that’s both affordable and hard-wearing. One thing to keep in mind if you opt for wood patio furniture, says Proctor: “Because wood is porous, stains may appear if the wood is not sealed or treated. It is always recommended to apply a protectant to help prevent food stains and water rings.”
What Is The Best Patio Furniture To Leave Out?
If you live in a temperate climate, you should be fine leaving your patio furniture out year-round. However, if you live someplace that gets a lot of seasonal rain or snow, you should consider using a fabric cover or bringing your furniture indoors during long periods of inclement weather. That being said, pieces made of teak or aluminum are typically durable enough to stay outside throughout fall and winter, which is something to keep in mind when making your purchase. Do note that some durable wood furniture, like teak and ipe, will turn a silver-gray within the year when left in the sun; keeping it in a covered space with little-to-no direct sunlight might help prevent this, Proctor says.
What Is The Easiest Patio Furniture To Clean?
Patio furniture made from aluminum and HDPE is among the easiest to clean, according to our furniture experts. Aluminum furniture is typically powder-coated and inherently rust-resistant, so it typically only requires a wash and dry. HDPE (also called resin wicker or poly lumber) is a synthetic wicker typically made from recycled plastic, meaning it’s durable and resists moisture and dirt; it’s also easy to clean with just soap and water.
Is It Worth It To Buy Expensive Patio Furniture?
How much you spend on patio furniture comes down to how often you plan on using it. If you live in a climate that affords you several months of pleasant weather a year and you enjoy spending your leisure time on your patio, higher-priced furniture is worth the investment. Luxury patio furniture is typically made with higher-quality materials than less expensive pieces, so it holds up better over time. However, if you only plan on using your patio furniture on occasion, our lower-cost recommendations may better fit your needs.