What To Look For In Garden Furniture

If you’re looking for garden furniture that makes outdoor entertaining a breeze or you’d rather chairs to create a comfortable space right outside your front door The buying guide we provide can help you choose and maintain the ideal furniture for your needs.

How do you get started? Read on to find out the kinds of furniture and accessories you’ll need, where you can buy them, and how you can take care of your furniture so that you don’t have to purchase replacements every year.

Garden furniture types

Making sure you select the correct material for your outdoor furniture is crucial. We review four commonly used kinds, and then list the pros and cons of each.

Rattan garden furniture

There are two kinds of rattan: synthetic and natural. Both provide a woven look that’s beautiful in a variety of colors and is suitable for every type of space.

While natural wicker is sturdy and attractive however it’s not weather-proof and therefore, most outdoor alternatives will be composed of plastic resins made of synthetic polyethylene.

A high-quality resin is extremely weatherproof. This makes it perfect to use for garden furniture throughout the year and will be less expensive than alternatives made from natural materials. If you reside in an area where you are frequently subject to severe winds, you may need some storage space as is lightweight and can be susceptible to blowing over.

If your heart is set on natural wicker, then you’ll have to ensure you’ve got a place to keep it when it’s not utilized to ensure it isn’t destroyed by elements.

Pros

Durable and strong
Attractive
Available in a range of colours and styles

Cons

It isn’t strong enough to withstand the force of winds
Natural wicker isn’t weatherproof.
Costs can be high.

Wooden garden furniture

Wood is an excellent choice for an natural design. If you pick the correct style, it’ll make a durable and strong element to your garden.

Softwoods, like cedar and pine cost less, but they are better well-suited for indoor furniture and require constant shielding from weather.

Higher-end hardwoods, like teak and eucalyptus, can last for a long period of time when treated with stain and oil every year, they will get weathered naturally.

Pros

Durable
Sturdy
It’s not able to retain heat. no burning legs after a hot day.
It appears natural
The paint can be stained or painted various colours

Cons

Expensive
It will require annual maintenance

Metal garden furniture

If you’re in search of something that is low-maintenance and long-lasting, then metal might be for you.

It’s strong and weatherproof, be sure to opt for a set that’s rust-resistant and is able to be used outside all year. But, the majority are equipped with cushions, which must be put away during periods of rain or cold. Also, you’ll need be aware not to get burned with the material when it’s extremely hot.

A lot of sets are minimalist in appearance Some are folding, which is ideal when you have a smaller space or a balcony.

Costs vary based on the kind and size of the set.

Pros

Durable
Low maintenance
Great for smaller spaces

Cons

Can become hot during sunny days?
It is possible that you will need to purchase cushions on your own

Plastic garden furniture

Plastic garden furniture is ideal for those on a tight budget. There are a variety of designs and styles at affordable cost. However, they may not be as strong or durable like other types of materials.

Plastic is weather-resistant, and therefore, you won’t need to store it away during the winter months. But extreme temperatures may occasionally cause it to warp.

A majority of plastic choices will be sold as a set.

If you’re running out of space, you should consider an item that is stackable to make moving it simpler.

Pros

Budget-friendly options
Stackable sets
Weatherproof
Low maintenance
Minimal assembly

Cons

Not eco-friendly
Not as strong or durable as other materials.

Caring for your garden furniture

Maintain the furniture you use for your gardens in good condition so that you don’t have to replace it each season by following our maintenance tips in the following paragraphs.

Rattan garden furniture

Natural wicker furniture should not be left outdoors. However, if it’s outside an outdoor piece, it’s important to regularly clean the grooves using a brush. Keep the furniture covered and put it away when not being used. Even if you adhere to all of these steps, there’s the chance that it could be damaged.

Synthetic rattan, however, is simpler. It is able to be used outdoors all year long, however, if you can, put it in a safe place or protect it from extreme weather conditions. It doesn’t require any special maintenance, but regularly wiping it off using soapy water can keep it looking clean and fresh.

Do not sit on chairs’ arms and clean and put the cushions that go with them.

Wooden garden furniture

Softwoods must be cleaned by a wood cleaning product at least at least once per year before being treated using a stain or paint.

Hardwoods require a clean down every year using soapy water, however they’ll weather naturally. If, however, you would like your furniture to look fresh, you can apply an oil or stain on theseitems, as well. Avoid painting hardwood since the oil content could cause the paint to dry unevenly.

It is recommended to protect your wooden furniture in wet or cold weather.

Metal garden furniture

Most garden furniture made of steel comes with a sealant to protect it from rust. keeps it from rusting, so all you have to do is wash it using soapy water each often.

If you find cracks or bubbling in the sealant You can always smooth it back down and then protect it with a new coat of sealant.

Insuring it is kept away from elements will also extend its lifespan.

Plastic garden furniture

Plastic is among the most straightforward materials to maintain. All you have to do is clean off the dirt with soapy water that is warm and soapy. White plastics may begin to turn a little yellow with time. For a fresher appearance, you could clean it using an abrasive cleaning solution.

In extreme temperatures, some plastics can also warp, therefore you may want to store them in shade when it’s sunny.

Garden furniture accessories

We review the most well-known kinds of garden accessories, and the best ways to take care of them.

Bases and parasols

There are two kinds of parasols: traditional parasol and a freestanding, cantilever parasol.

Traditional parasols rise up and usually go through an opening within tables. The cantilever parasols, on the other hand, are freestanding, they have a curving arm that floats over your furniture. They are also typically moved into various configurations.

A few shops also sell parasols that can be attached to the wall of your outdoor space. They’re great for those who are in a tight space.

The base keeps the parasol in place and off the ground. Some parasols include a base however for the majority you’ll need to purchase one on your own. The base weight of your parasol will depend on the type and size of the parasol. For instance, a typical parasol that measures around 2m would require a base of at minimum 15kg. For a four-meter cantilever, however, it will require a base weight of 50kg. Ask the manufacturer for the suggested base weight.

Make sure that your parasol is securely attached to the base. Then remove it and put it away in a secure location in high winds. If your parasol becomes wet, dry it thoroughly before folding it.

Garden furniture covers

Garden furniture covers are available in various sizes and shapes that are ready-made or you can choose an individual design.

Your first step should be to measure the furniture to ensure you purchase the right cover to fit it correctly. For instance, when you measure the size of a table for your garden it is recommended to put all the chairs underneath the table with a firm grip before using tape measures to measure the width, length and the height.

You’ll then need select the type of protection you require. The majority of people should choose an option that is waterproof, however there are also cover that shields you against UV rays as well.

Garden furniture cushions

Cushions shouldn’t just be attractive, but they should also offer stability and comfort while relaxing outdoors.

Check that they’re appropriate for your furniture . Cushions that slide around or don’t completely cover the entire seat will not provide a comfortable experience. Cushion ties are an excellent solution to stop cushion cushions from moving.

The majority of cushions benefit from being stored indoors during dry or cold conditions to prevent mildew and mould. If cushions are kept in shade in the summer months will stop them from becoming faded.

It is also possible to choose fabrics which are waterproof and not prone to fade. Sunbrella fabric is known for its durability, however it can be quite costly.

Filling is also crucial. Polyester fill is inexpensive, but it flattens over time , and don’t offer peace of mind for the long term. Foam is better, but it will also be dependent on density. The more dense the more comfortable.