Outdoor living spaces offer us a place to relax, enjoy nature, dine, and play, especially in the warmer months. And, of course, if you have outdoor space, you’ll probably need to furnish it. Understanding how you want to use your deck, patio, or backyard can help you make purchase choices that fit your lifestyle and finances.
Our top patio furniture picks
Brizio Acacia 3 Piece Seating Group with Cushions
When you hunt for outdoor wood furniture that can withstand the elements, teak, acacia, cypress, bamboo, redwood and cedar are good choices. Make sure to care for it using wood oil a few times a year, and cover your furniture when it is not in use and during inclement weather.
Birch Lane sells natural wood furniture, and we like its Acacia rocking chairs for their affordable and trendy outdoor look. With 1,652 reviews and 4.7 stars, this three-piece wood set is a good starter piece for comfortable patio or deck living.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Chair (33.25 inches deep and 24.00 inches wide and 35.75 inches high. Seat (19.00 inches deep and 20.75 inches wide and 16.50 inches high) Table 9.00 inches deep and 15.00 inches wide and 19.25 inches high)
- Material: Acacia wood, machine washable cushion covers (waterproof polyester and foam) and weathered steel
- Colors: Lovely weathered light brown teak and cream-colored cushions
- Warranty: You can purchase a three-year warranty plan for $44.99
- Price: $300
- Assembly required: Yes
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Comes with cushions
- Classic patio set
Cons:
- Assembly required
- Pay for a warranty
- You have to buy the whole set
The bottom line:
A great option for those who need to outfit a patio all at once with a set.
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Manna Sonoma Red Dining Chair
“Before you buy furniture for your outdoor space, really consider how it will be used and what you enjoy doing outside,” shares Greg Forest, a senior global real estate advisor for Sotheby's, based in Palm Beach, Florida. “For example, if you love to eat al fresco and entertain, investing in a beautiful table makes sense.”
Forest recommends the furniture company Article for its high-quality furniture. Start building your al fresco dining set with these red woven rope chairs. They come in pairs and are good-looking enough for indoors. With a mid-century modern sensibility and sturdy steel frame, these seats are comfortable and chic.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 22 inches high and 22.5 inches wide and 27 inches deep
- Material: Steel and woven polypropylene
- Colors: Red
- Warranty: One-year
- Price: $340 (set of two)
- Assembly: None required
Pros:
- Set of two chairs under $350
- Can be used indoors or outdoors for seating
Cons:
- Need to purchase protective covers separately
The bottom line:
High-quality dining chairs that are good looking enough for indoor and outdoor use.
Isola Aluminium Lounge Chair
25% offSave $200
Invest in high-quality aluminum patio furniture if inclement weather and strong storms are common where you live. Cast and wrought aluminum are light enough to store (these are 16 pounds) easily but also strong enough to stand up to winds—provided they’re not accompanied by hurricane gales or tornados. Aluminum will resist rust and most aluminum patio furniture contains a powder coat finish for extra protection. The Isola aluminum lounge chairs are comfortable and beautiful but better yet, they’re weatherproof.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 32-3/4 inches wide and 30 ¾ inches high and 33 inches deep.
- Material: Aluminum
- Colors: Grayish brown
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price: $679.15
- Assembly required: Some
Pros:
- Aluminum is extremely durable and weatherproof
- Stores easily
Cons:
- It does not come with a cushion
- Higher price point per chair than some competitors
The bottom line:
If you love a good lounge chair, these are weatherproof and will resist rust when it rains — but you’ll need to purchase your own cushions for maximum comfort.
Albria 4-Person Outdoor Seating Group with Cushions by Lark Manor
When it comes to budget-friendly outdoor furniture sets, expect to set a floor of around $300. Usually, that’s the lowest you can pay for a no-frills set for outdoor dining or lounging (read: mesh seat material and aluminum construction). That’s why this four-person set is an extremely good value—you get a loveseat, two chairs, a coffee table, and cushions, all for well under $250. The set is made from weather-resistant wicker and the cushion covers are machine-washable, so you’ll enjoy a few summers with this stylish conversation grouping.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Loveseat: 44 inches (width) x 23 inches (depth) x 34 inches (height); Chairs: 34 ½ inches (width) x 23 inches (depth) x 34 inches (height); Table: 32 inches (width) x 19 inches (depth) x 16 inches (height)
- Material: Weather-resistant wicker (furniture), UV-resistant polyester (cushions), glass (table top)
- Colors: Brown
- Warranty: 90-day limited warranty
- Assembly required: Yes
- Price: $226.99 (subject to change)
Pros:
- Good for small spaces
- Great value for a set
- Weather-resistant materials
- Cushions included
Cons:
- May seem a bit small for those who like to sprawl out
- Requires assembly
The bottom line:
A stylish conversational grouping (with cushions!) for a bargain price that can last for many seasons.
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Latta Slate Gray Dining Table for 8
This dining table by Article, a brand recommended by Forest, due to its high-quality craftsmanship, durability and style, can seat eight people comfortably in style for an enjoyable al fresco dining experience. Made with an Acacia wood topper and aluminum frame, two of the most durable materials for outdoor furniture, this table is designed to last for many seasons of outdoor meals. You can pair the table with a few of Article’s Manna Sonoma chairs.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 30 inches high and 94.5 inches wide and 39.5 inches deep
- Material: Acacia wood and powder-coated aluminum
- Colors: Natural wood
- Warranty: N/A
- Price: $799
- Assembly required: Yes
Pros:
- Durable materials
- Large enough for eight guests
Cons:
- Expensive
- Must purchase chairs separately
The bottom line:
A high-end outdoor table that seats eight but you’ll have to buy chairs to go with it.
Sausalito Swivel Lounge Chair in Natural Wicker
Terra makes some of the best outdoor wicker furniture with durable and comfortable designs for long lounging sessions on the deck. The all-weather wicker with a deep seat that swivels can stand up to heat and humidity, making it a great option for those living in coastal areas. Also, the swivel component is a fun addition to classic seating.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 39 inches wide and 32 inches deep and 31 inches high
- Material: All-weather wicker
- Colors: Light wicker frame with sand, taupe or stone cushions (various shades of gray)
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price: $1,349
- Assembly required: Yes
Pros:
- Weather resistant materials
- Rates high for comfort
- Can be purchased separately or as part of a set
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy if you need to move it (54 pounds)
The bottom line:
Wicker looks classy and usually ages well, and this set rates high for comfort, but at over $1,000, this deep-seated lounger may call for even deeper pockets.
Jericho Sling Chair
Rove Concepts produces high-end, modern furniture for outdoor living. The company has mixed reviews on TrustPilot, but its high-end designs, like the Jericho sling chair, are a way to bring your patio game up a notch.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 27.1 inches wide and 35.4 inches deep and 35.8 inches high. Seat width is 21 inches.
- Material: High-performance aluminum frame wrapped in polyethylene rattan
- Colors: White or black cushion with natural rattan frame
- Warranty: N/A
- Price: $369 (if you sign up to be a member of Rove Concepts)
- Assembly required: Some
Pros:
- Will hold up to 250 pounds
- Aluminum frame is an excellent material for durability
- UV- & water-resistant fabric cushion
Cons:
- Mixed reviews of the company (not the product) on TrustPilot
The bottom line:
A good-looking sling chair that can hold up to 250 pounds.
The Neighbor ™ Haven Canvas 4-Piece Outdoor Sectional
15% offSave $645
If eco-friendly furniture is important to you, this weather-resistant sectional sofa is one way to go when furnishing your outside space. The Neighbor Haven is a four-piece sectional that looks great outdoors and is comfortable for lounging around.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 64 inches wide x 91 inches deep x 28 inches tall
- Material: FSC ®-certified acacia, hand-stretched, weather-resistant polyester rope back, quick-drying, high-resilient foam and polyester cushions (fade- and mildew-resistant solution-dyed Sunbrella ® acrylic fabric)
- Colors: Multiple
- Warranty: N/A
- Assembly required: Yes (some)
- Price: $4,300
Pros:
- Five-year warranty
- Prioritizes eco-friendly materials
- FSC ®-certified furniture–supports responsible management of the world's forests.
Cons:
- May not be good for small spaces
- Expensive
The bottom line:
Extremely eco-friendly and large enough to stretch out on but not so bulky that it takes up too much room, this set is extremely expensive but worth it if it’s in your price range.
Best portable outdoor furniture: Teak beach chair
Teak beach chair
Serena & Lily is known for its coastal cool, beach-house vibe. This teak sling chair with a preppy nautical vibe is made for sitting by the water’s edge all summer. Besides its comfortable shape, the best part is that it folds up, and with its padded backpack straps, so it can travel with you. Buying a set allows for moveable seating on the patio or pool.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 26 inches wide and 30 inches deep and height is 34 inches overall. When folded up, the chair is 32 inches wide and 27 inches deep and 3.5 inches tall. Item has an interior seat depth of 17 inches wide and 17 inches deep
- Material: Teak with stainless steel hardware and a weather-resistant coating; UV and water-resistant canvas
- Colors: Antique white, coastal blue and tide strip botanical
- Warranty: N/A (Can return within a 30-day window)
- Price: $298
- Assembly required: No
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight (14 lbs)
- Can support up to 250 lbs
- Comes with a zippered pocket
Cons:
- May need a set for multiple guests
- Recommended to be stored indoors during inclement weather
The bottom line:
This chair is a lovely, portable design from a well-loved designer that allows you to lounge anywhere in style.
Grand Patio 12 FT Deluxe NAPOLI SUNBRELLA Cantilever Umbrella Curvy Aluminum Offset Umbrella with Base
Providing shade on your patio or deck is crucial when the sun’s rays are shining down on your lounge (or lunch) time. This 12-foot cantilever umbrella will keep you stylish and shady, plus, it comes with a sturdy base, so you can purchase it, put it up, and enjoy your patio — even at noon, because it comes with UV-protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12 x 12 feet
- Material: Aluminum and Sunbrella canopy material (that won’t fade and water-resistant)
- Colors: Charcoal, flax, sapphire blue, aruba (a green color), and granite
- Warranty: N/A
- Assembly required: Limited
- Price: $549.99
Pros:
- Provides up to 12 feet of shade
- Comes with a base
- Water-resistant, UV-blocking, and fade-proof canopy
The bottom line:
Good looking and hard-working — this durable patio umbrella blocks harmful rays and provides 12 feet of cover.
Hokku Designs Ashelly Outdoor Dining Armchair with Cushion
Sometimes the best patio furniture is multi-functional, and this chair from Hokku Designs doesn’t disappoint with its colorful, soft cushions, lightweight wooden frame, and arms for comfortable seating. Pull it up to your table for BBQ and then scoot it back to simply relax. Bonus: Many pieces of patio furniture require you to purchase additional cushions, but these all come together in one piece. I think these are a bit bulky for smaller tables, so I would definitely use them just as patio chairs, if necessary, on my deck. Plus, these chairs fold up easily for simple storage but don’t fret if you leave them out; these cushions are water and UV-resistant, and you can remove the cushion if you want to and just sit in the seat.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 43.23 inches x 25.94 inches x 18.86 inches, plus a 20-inch high seat
- Material: Solid wood and UV-resistant and water-resistant cushions
- Colors: Blue, brown, gray, green, orange, and yellow
- Warranty: N/A
- Assembly required: No
- Price: $253
Pros:
- Can work as a dining or lounge chair
- Water-resistant and UV-blocking cushions
Cons:
- May need to remove the cushion to comfortably dine
The bottom line:
Colorful, water- and UV-resistant patio chairs that pull double duty for dining or lounging.
Burrow’s Dunes Teak 2-Piece Sofa
15% offSave $300
I won’t lie, this will be a splurge for most households, including mine, but if you’re looking for patio furniture, you won’t have to replace it every few seasons; this will hold up well. A two-piece teak seater designed for comfort and durability, it comes in all-weather fabric to ensure the elements don’t ruin it. Although at nearly $2,000, I’d throw a cover on when it rains. The FSC-certified teak with marine-grade hardware is handsome and sturdy, and the cushions are porous and made from quick-drying foam, so when a sudden summer rain shower comes down, they won’t take days to dry out (an issue with many patio cushions) after the clouds clear.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 65 inches x 33 inches x 21 inches
- Material: FSC-certified teak and all-weather-resistant fabric
- Colors: Charcoal or sand
- Warranty: One year
- Assembly required: Yes
- Price: $1,999 and free shipping
Pros:
- FSC-certified teak
- Water-resistant and UV-blocking cushions with quick-drying foam
- Coordinating add-on furniture is available
Cons:
- Only comes in two color choices
- Expensive
The bottom line:
Excellent craftsmanship on this high-end, extremely durable, mid-century modern inspired sofa made from FSC-certified teak and all-weather resistant fabric.
Best places to buy outdoor furniture
A budget-friendly way to shop for a wide variety of outdoor furniture, you can find everything you need here to set up an outdoor space, from sectionals to dining sets. Wayfair’s offerings are a great mix of trendy and classic styles. You can find mid-century modern chairs or pick up rustic farmhouse benches from one online location. Wayfair also carries a range of Adirondack chairs, a staple for sitting lakeside or watching the sunset from your deck.
Along with furniture, pick up sun umbrellas, hammocks, lawn games, outdoor bar carts, storage, and more. It’s a one-stop shop for making your backyard, patio and deck decorative and functional. Wayfair also will return items within a 30-day window, which makes it a safe bet for purchasing furniture online.
One of Wayfair’s branded retail websites, AllModern is good for finding affordable designs inspired by Bauhaus and other mid-century makers. You can search the outdoor furniture section by material, from all-weather to mixed metals, to make sure your purchase can withstand the elements.
This Minneapolis-based furniture company designs contemporary pieces for inside and outside your home. We like its colorful Hot Mesh patio chairs for their comfort and polished modern look. Blu Dot also offers a range of outdoor sofas and sectionals as well. Its prices are aligned with its high-end and modern design.
What to consider when buying outdoor furniture
First, think about how you want to use your outdoor space. Will you throw large parties? If so, you may want easy-to-move furniture to make space for a crowd. If you love eating outside, make sure you buy a table large enough to accommodate a group of guests. Maybe you want to create an outdoor play area with standing hammocks and lawn games. If so, make sure to leave space between the furniture for kids to have fun.
Other considerations
Materials
If you want outdoor furniture that lasts more than a season, purchase durable materials like teak, acacia, and other weather-treated woods. Cast or wrought aluminum and all-weather wicker are also durable choices.
Size
Make sure to measure not only the furniture you are buying but the space for it. You will want to make sure you can easily push in or pull out a chair and leave space to walk around a piece without banging into something.
Weight limits
Before you buy a piece of furniture, check how heavy the piece is, so you can know if it is easy to lift and/or put away during a storm, if necessary. In addition, you should make sure to know the weight limit of each item so that when kids and dogs pile onto the furniture, it will hold up.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Make sure the furniture you purchase is meant for outdoor use to avoid leaving cushions that smell like mildew. Some fabrics are easier to clean than others. Sunbrella, a cushion fabric, is easier to clean and maintain than linen or cotton. Rust-free aluminum, weathered steel, and acacia wood are all examples of outdoor furniture that are easy to clean and maintain.
Shape
After measuring your space, think about how you will use it. If you enjoy BBQs and sit-down meals, make sure your outdoor table can support a large number of guests. Many outdoor tables (both round and rectangular) have a hole in the center of them to accommodate a large sun umbrella to make mealtimes under the sun more pleasant.
After deciding what you want and need, determine your price point.
There are endless options, from wallet-friendly budget to high-priced patio furniture. To help, we asked design experts, realtors, and outdoor furniture enthusiasts about their favorite designs and sets.
How we selected the best outdoor furniture
Expert advice
I received tips from patio and deck lovers, design pros, and real estate agents who say well-appointed outdoor living space (large or small) is now a necessary component of your home.
Durability and water-resistant
I chose brands that were durable in most kinds of weather — including rain and sleet. Although most experts recommend covering your patio furniture when not in use, it’s helpful to own weather-resistant fabrics and materials in case you (and your patio) get caught unexpectedly in a downpour.
A range of styles and budgets
Patio furniture is a big sector of the furniture market, and as outdoor space becomes an important part of a well-appointed home, I wanted to offer a range of top-quality products in styles from classic coastal to mid-century modern, but in a range of price points for all kinds of budgets.
When is the best time to buy outdoor furniture?
If you want to purchase the latest styles and trends, consider purchasing in early spring, suggests Forest, when items are still in stock. Memorial Day is a great time to snag high-end pieces at lower prices. Snap up the best pillows, often also on sale, for outdoor furniture in a fabric like Sunbrella that won’t fade.
Other experts recommend looking for patio furniture after the summer season ends, in late fall or winter, when it tends to go on sale.
What are great accessories for your outdoor space?
“I love Tucci umbrellas,” shares Forest. “If you are going to buy one accessory, this is it. They are the best in the business and make any space more inviting. Coolers, fire pits, outdoor lawn or deck games, movie screens, poofs, weather-resistant rugs and floor pillows are all great additional accessories to complete your outdoor oasis.
Care and maintenance of outdoor and patio furniture
It’s important for the longevity of your outdoor and patio furniture that you keep it clean and covered in inclement weather. How you maintain your furniture will depend on its materials.
Wicker
Use a vacuum to remove all the crumbs and dirt between the weave of the material, and wash any dirt or grime with warm soapy water or remove mold. Wicker likes to be covered in bad weather, so make sure to purchase furniture coverings to keep it looking good over time.
Sunbrella fabric
Sunbrella fabric (often used on pieces of patio and outdoor furniture) can usually stand up to most spills if they’re water or lemonade (two drinks in rotation on our deck in the summer), but make sure to clean spills fast. The company suggests using a mild cleaning solution of soap and water or a multi-purpose fabric cleaner. Spray the mixture and blot liquid spills. Make sure to rinse all your fabric after you clean, and then just let those cushions air-dry.
Wood
Simply remove dirt with a mild mix of soap and water by washing your wood by hand. Consider restaining wood over time if it becomes too beaten up. You can also use a wood-specific furniture cleaner as well if you need a deeper clean.
Aluminum
It’s important to care for your outdoor aluminum furniture because it can tarnish over time. Experts suggest using a solution of warm soapy water with lemon juice to wipe down aluminum furniture every week. In addition, for extra dark dirt, a steel wool pad can be used to try to remove it.
Related: Outdoor Living Space Ideas for Summer and Beyond
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the best material for outdoor furniture?
Natural wood and Sunbrella materials are two popular choices for furniture. “Natural wood like teak will last a long time if you take care of it,” says Forest. “Use furniture oil and cover all outdoor furniture to help with its longevity.” Whatever you buy, make sure it is water-resistant and weatherproof.
How do I get the best deals on outdoor furniture?
You can get the best deals on outdoor furniture by shopping in-store and online sales. Many stores offer significant discounts over Memorial Day weekend. End-of-season sales, along with Labor Day markdowns, often happen in late August or early September. “Best time to buy patio furniture would be at the end of the summer when all sales start to hit,” recommends Martha Gaffney, certified interior decorator and strategic real estate advisor at Real Estate Bees.
If you have a favorite store, it can be worth signing up for emails and texts from it so you can be among the first to know about any upcoming sales.
Is it worth buying expensive outdoor furniture?
Good quality outdoor furniture can last for a few decades. And while not all expensive pieces necessarily mean good quality—if you buy anything, make sure the pieces are built to last. Outdoor furniture with weather-proof fabrics, durable wood like Acacia and teak, and materials like rust-proof aluminum can be worth the investment.
How do I choose the right size and style of outdoor furniture for my space?
“Mixing and matching furniture is always fun so all pieces don't always need to look the same. When looking for outdoor furniture, it's best to look for something that suits not only your style but your needs for use,” says Gaffney.
Always measure your patio, deck or yard before purchasing and allow for two-to-three feet of space for foot traffic. Think about how much furniture you need to be comfortable outside and how you will use the space. A dining area on a deck will need enough clearance to pull out chairs or get back and forth safely to a grill.
Make sure your furniture is in place for optimal viewing of a pool, garden or yard and doesn’t block doors leading back into your house. Otherwise, your style will likely dictate what you buy for your space.
Can outdoor furniture be used indoors or vice versa?
Indoor furniture is not usually made to withstand the elements, making it potentially risky to use outdoors. However, outdoor furniture could be used in your home, depending on whether you like it and how it influences your decor and style. If you have a covered sunroom, for example, wicker and rattan outdoor furniture that is heat- and humidity- friendly, it might be a great fit.
How do I protect my outdoor furniture from weather damage?
Always cover your outdoor furniture and accessories, like a grill, to protect it from weather damage. If you own an outdoor movie screen, put it away after use to keep it from getting damaged. Pillows, cushions, poufs, and other comfortable accessories should not be left out in the rain, sleet, or other damaging weather conditions. Buying furniture covers to fit your couches, tables and chairs can help protect heavier pieces during poor weather. When emergency and severe weather conditions are in the forecast, bring all outdoor furniture and accessories indoors.
Will a great outdoor space raise my home’s value or a buyer’s interest?
Yes. Outdoor space has become a priority for buyers. If you are thinking of selling your home, a well-appointed, good looking deck, patio or lawn will likely make a difference and great furniture and accessories can have a positive impact as well. "The rising popularity of outdoor features suggests the pandemic has changed how we want to live for good, priming the backyard for a 2023 evolution," said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert.
