How to Pick the Right Outdoor Furniture

Relaxing and entertaining aren’t solely reserved for the indoors. In fact, with the right furniture, they may be better when done al fresco. Ready to make the transition to outdoor living, but unsure what furniture fits your open-air lifestyle? Here, we break down the best backyard pieces so you can concentrate on the weather forecast. Shop All Outdoor Furniture›

Most outdoor furniture comes in four basic materials: aluminum, wicker, wood, and plastic. Each has its pros and cons, depending on the aesthetic and craftsmanship you’re going for. Here, we break down these four common materials (and a few extras).  Shop All Outdoor Furniture›

Aluminum

Lightweight but also durable, aluminum can stand up to the heat (and the wind and the rain). Perhaps its best trait? It’s rust-resistant, making it a great solution for humid climates or locales that tend to see a lot of rain. For extra durability, opt for UV-resistant, powder-coated aluminum.

Wicker

A very popular choice, woven wicker furniture offers porches, decks, and sun-rooms a classic, timeless look. While always lightweight, it’s important to note that only all-weather wicker can withstand the elements—its traditional counterpart, made from rattan, cane, or bamboo, should only be used in covered areas.

Wood

Typically the most expensive of the four materials, wood is always a solid—and sturdy—choice for outdoor furniture. To get the most bang for your buck, look for denser types of wood like teak, eucalyptus, and acacia; they’re the most weather- and insect-resistant, and thus, will last the longest.

Plastic

A lightweight, low-cost option that comes in a variety of colors and styles, plastic furniture may not last as long as wood, wicker, and aluminum furniture. To reduce fading, look to plastic with UV-stabilized pigments—or, opt for a recycled plastic piece. Made of polyethylene, recycled plastic is created to be highly durable.

The Finishing Touches

No outdoor space is complete without cushions, an umbrella, and a rug. When buying such items, turn to fabrics designed specifically for outdoor use. Words you’ll want to look for? Water-repellant, fade- and mildew-resistant, and UV-stabilized pigments.  Shop All Outdoor Cushions› Shop All Umbrellas›  Shop All Outdoor Rugs›

Before you start looking for outdoor furniture, take into the account the type and size of your outdoor space, as well as how you plan to use—be it for dining, entertaining, or relaxing. From there, you should have a better idea of what set type will best suit your outdoor living needs. Below, we outline your options. Shop All Outdoor Furniture›

Bistro Sets

Consisting of two small chairs and a table, bistro sets are perfect for small spaces like balconies, apartment terraces, and petite patios.
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Dining Sets

Ideal for enjoying meals al fresco with friends and family, dining sets include one table, and depending on the size of the set, can come with anywhere from six to twelve chairs.
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Conversation Sets

Great for those who love to entertain, conversation sets typically consist of armchairs, loveseats, or a sectional paired with a matching, low-lying table. Perfect for mingling, these sets also give your outdoor space the look and feel of a living room. Shop All Conversation Sets›

If cared for properly, most outdoor furniture can last for years. To keep your chairs, tables and cushions looking beautiful for seasons to come, read up on the general care tips below.  Shop All Outdoor Furniture›

For Aluminum Furniture

Simply wash occasionally with mild soap and water, wiping completely dry when done. Avoid using abrasive chemicals or cleaners, which can cause discoloration.

For Wicker Furniture

To avoid dirt buildup, occasionally vacuum with a dust-brush attachment, or sporadically scrub with a mild soap solution and let air dry.

For Wood Furniture

Most wood naturally resists decay, but to be safe, apply a sealant every one to three years to enhance and preserve the color of the wood.

For Plastic Furniture

Plastic requires little to no maintenance: When dirty, simply wipe clean with a mild soap solution and let dry.

For All Furniture

Store it! Most—if not all—outdoor furniture can benefit from being stored during cold winter months (this goes especially for New England residents). If your storage space is limited, opt for furniture that folds up easily or invest in furniture covers.

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