Patio Furniture For Your Outdoor Space: Buying Guide

Excellent furniture provides comfort and utility to outdoor spaces. With a spacious table and comfortable patio seating, a simple stone patio can be transformed into an outdoor dining area. During the warm weather months, a porch furnished with a wicker sofa and a classic rocking chair with plush cushions can become a second family room. 

When matched with the proper furniture, small spaces like balconies and pocket gardens will beckon you outdoors. Use the following guidelines to select the best patio furniture. Planning will assist you in transforming your backyard into your new favorite spot for lounging, dining, and entertaining.

List Down What You Need

Start by considering how you want your outdoor space to function. Do you want it to serve as a dining area on balmy summer evenings? Do you intend to use the space for your next dinner party or your child’s birthday celebration? Or do you envision a cozy reading nook with inviting patio seating tucked away in your outdoor room?

Create a list of the events you’d like to perform in the area and use it as a guide to determine the type of furniture required.

Consider Easy-Care Furniture

Spend the majority of your time outdoors enjoying your living space rather than maintaining the furnishings. Look for patio furniture with minimal maintenance requirements. Most metal, teak, cedar, and all-weather wicker pieces can withstand the elements. 

The furniture made from these forgiving materials will last for years if cleaned regularly. You can also accessorize the furniture with outdoor cushions and pillows whose covers are easily removable and machine-washable.

Invest In High-Quality Patio Furniture

In general, the adage “you get what you pay for” applies to outdoor furniture. Plastic resin chairs or side tables, for instance, may look great on the shelf and retain their appearance for one or two years when exposed to the sun, but over time they will become brittle and lose their vibrant coloring. The same holds true for some wooden and wicker products. 

Before making a major purchase, checking consumer reports and reviews is prudent. Plan to splurge on frequently used items, such as comfortable patio seating or a sturdy dining table, if you’re on a tight budget. Smaller accessories, such as pillows and accent tables, are more cost-effective.

Try Dual-Purpose Furniture

Look for multifunctional furniture to maximize your space and budget. Pieces that serve multiple purposes can eliminate the need for additional outdoor furniture and free up more space for your favorite pastimes. For instance, an ottoman or garden stool can serve as additional seating for guests on the patio. A simple bench can stand on its own or complement an outdoor dining table. Select patio furniture with functionality in mind to maximize the use of frequently utilized outdoor areas.