Where to shop the best outdoor furniture and sets for your patio in 2024

Spring is almost here, which means it’s time to clean up and revamp our backyards.

Naturally, when the latter is concerned, we have furniture on the brain, which is why we’re searching the best places to buy patio furniture online.

You too? You’re in luck, because we’ve done all the heavy lifting for you — metaphorically speaking. From shoppers favorites to some of our personal faves, we’ve lined up the retailers that have the best outdoor sectionals, dining sets, chaise lounges, fire pits…you get the picture.

RELATED:Best outdoor furniture deals: Amazon Big Spring Sale

From affordable and trendy pieces from Amazon to the durable and modular designs of Outer, there’s something for every space, budget and taste.

To ensure you’re receiving the crème de la crème of patio furniture, we turned to a team of design experts to share some considerations to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor patio furniture — including a breakdown of commonly used materials and how to maintain and care for your set — in our in-depth FAQ section following our top retailers.

RELATED: Best places to buy rugs online

“I prefer a patio aesthetic that lets the garden and nature be the focal point,” Meg Lonergan, Houston-based interior designer, told the New York Post. “But bright colors can remind you of the beach, [while] wickers and rattans can remind you of Europe. I think people lean towards a certain style of exterior furniture to remind them of good memories spent outdoors.”

Take a look at the best places to buy outdoor patio furniture this year, from Wayfair to Amazon. There’s nothing quite like being prepared before the new season emerges, either.

Click to jump to:

• Expert-Backed FAQ Section

Best Places to Buy Outdoor Patio Furniture

• Best Overall: Amazon

  

  Pros:

  • Wide selection of items in a variety of styles
  • Name brand options

  Cons:

  • Shipping varies depending on vendor

  Editor’s Pick:Wisteria Lane 7-Piece Furniture Set

  Amazon is a retailer (as we all know) that has a little bit of everything in store for various home aesthetics — in a wide price point range. The Garden & Outdoor department in the furniture section is quite extensive, featuring fire pits, outdoor heaters and seating for your backyard space. From patio chairs to outdoor tables, you can filter picks by price point, shape, material and more, making it a cinch to find exactly what you’re looking for. Some items are eligible for free-shipping or Prime 2-day delivery, and there are usually some amazing deals attached.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  AMAZON

• Best Sofas and Sectionals: Outer

  

  Pros:

  • Modular furniture that works for a variety of outdoor spaces
  • Water-resistant materials and fabrics
  • Free design services

  Cons:

  • Not many outdoor sofa options for smaller spaces

  Editor’s Pick:White Aluminum Outdoor Armless Loveseat

  Outer is a premier outdoor patio furniture online destination that’s apt for those looking for sustainably crafted, modular designs. Best of all, every Outer products comes fully backed with a warranty to weather years of use. It’s particularly great for its all-weather wicker furniture, namely. They have loads of aluminum framed pieces, which are durable as they come. Many of the seat options have fade-resistant materials and are designed to maintain their structural integrity. More importantly, there are lots of stylish options!

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  OUTER

• Best Stylish: West Elm

  

  Pros:

  • Functional accent pieces
  • Items available for White Glove Service
  • Made to order items

  Cons:

  • Smaller selection of outdoor furniture sets

  Editor’s Pick:Seville Outdoor Stacking Lounge Chairs

  West Elm upholds a contemporary and sleek aesthetic. Think: natural textures, slim frames and comfortable, cushioned appeal. Each piece is well-made and fairly priced, allowing you to hand-pick elevated pieces if you so choose. Best of all, the catalog channels classic styles with a modern twist that you’ll love for your space.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: Yes

  WEST ELM

• Best Wicker: Frontgate

  

  Pros:

  • Handcrafted sand-cast aluminum
  • Premium teak
  • All-weather wicker

  Cons:

  • It has a lot of contemporary options, but not an abundance of other styles

  Editor’s Pick:Carlisle Woven Swivel Rocker Lounge Chairs

  Known for its southern-inspired sets and seaters, Frontgate is a brand our audience particularly loves. From the Surrey Hill 3-Piece Sofa Set to the Baleares Daybed (from $2,999), the online retailer is a luxe investment that’ll turn heads (and tap into unmatched comfort). What’s more, Frontgate has divine poolside chaises to lounge and lay, including the Balencia Bronze Chaise Lounges ($993.29). Its Isola Lounge Chair ($600) is one of our favorites.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: Yes

  FRONTGATE

  RELATED:Best outdoor lounge chairs, Best outdoor rocking chairs for the porch

• Best Aluminum: Yardbird

  

  Pros:

  • Designs that range from the organic to traditional
  • Stain resistant materials
  • Recyclable packaging

  Cons:

  • 5% processing fee on returns

  Editor’s Pick: Eden Outdoor Sofa Set with Swivel Chairs

  Yardbird is a brand that takes the great outdoors seriously. Quite seriously in fact. The Minneapolis-based brand used primarily recycled plastic to construct its elegant, environmentally-friendly furniture. The furniture arrives in less packaging than many of its luxury competitors and is primarily recyclable when you’re ready to phase it out (not anytime soon, we’re sure). In addition to the better-for-the-planet appeal, Yardbird’s outdoor furniture sets just look really, really good. They have a massive collection of pieces, ranging from dining sets to sectionals, and they’re all in a variety of styles and materials. Whether you like furniture with lots of texture or prefer something in the simpler side, we’re sure you’ll find something up your alley at Yardbird. If you like teak options, you’ll love the Winnie Collection. However, if you like the look of the material but dislike its upkeep, you’ll want to consider the Eden Collection. It’s designed to look like teak but is actually — get this — painted aluminum! Amazing.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$

  YARDBIRD

• Best Conversation Sets: Wayfair

  

  Pros:

  • Helpful tips and guide pages
  • Items available for professional assembly
  • Great outdoor sale section

  Cons:

  • Quality can vary

  Editor’s Pick:Metham Wicker Fully-Assembled 4-Person Seating

  Wayfair is one of the most-shopped-at online home furniture destinations. Here, you’ll find sets for every budget and at a great value — from small patio furniture and umbrellas to outdoor bar furniture and fully-assembled conversation sets. Even better, the retailer often hosts sales year-round to get the biggest bang for your buck.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  WAYFAIR

• Best Budget: Walmart

  

  Pros:

  • Lots of all-weather furniture picks
  • Quick delivery
  • Affordable added protection options

  Cons:

  • Durability of some items could be better, but the price still makes them a good option

  Editor’s Pick:Better Homes & Gardens River Oaks Outdoor Sofa and Nesting Tables

  Walmart is universally known to carry budget-friendly finds, yet its selection of outdoor patio furniture doesn’t compromise quality. In fact, it’s one of our readers’ most-loved destinations to pick up a multi-person seating group for their backyard. You’ll love its bundles and traditional styles, as well as the affordable takes on trendier pieces.

  Details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping:Available with Walmart +

  WALMART

• Best for Small Spaces: Terrain

  

  Pros:

  • All-weather furniture
  • Small patio furniture options under $1,000
  • Great selection of fire pits

  Cons:

  • We wish they had more furniture sets

  Editor’s Pick:Arcadia Steel Bench

  Terrain is a phenomenal destination for chic, bohemian-inspired patio furniture, mostly for à la carte options like sectional sofas and standalone ottomans. What’s more, the brand taps into luxury without costing more than $3,000 per item. It’s a great place to find outdoor sofas, benches, and lots of garden accessories to dress up your backyard with.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  TERRAIN

• Best Chairs: Serena & Lily

  

  Pross:

  • Outdoor friendly materials
  • Some pieces are available for quick delivery
  • Customizable options

  Cons:

  • Not an abundance of aluminum outdoor furniture, but great if wood or wicker

  Editor’s Pick:Serena & Lily Capistrano Tete-A-Tete

  If you’re super keen on rendering your outdoor space into a beach-inspired safe haven where you can rest, relax and entertain in supreme comfort, look no further than Serena & Lily. Its outdoor shop is one of the internet’s hidden gems, offering luxe options — with an emphasis on lounging in style. Some pieces are customizable, which we always love, while some are eligible for quick delivery or have retro-elements to make your space a tad more special. While the color palette used tends to be on the more muted side, the finds are relaxing to say the least, and isn’t that what outdoor patio furniture is all about?

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$ | Free shipping: No

  SERENA & LILY

• Best Outdoor Dining Sets: The Home Depot

  

  Pros:

  • Customization on select pieces
  • Wide selection of furniture covers
  • Ability to filter by next-day delivery

  Cons:

  • This retailer offers a variety of styles, but many have a similar aesthetic that won’t appeal to everyone

  Editor’s Pick:Nuu Garden 7-Piece Metal Outdoor Dining Set

  The Home Depot isn’t just known for its appliances and tool sets. At this retailer, you’ll find a bunch of outdoor patio furniture that’s traditional, timeless and easy to assemble — mostly in the traditional to contemporary. It may not be for you if you like more modern or edgier furniture. However, many of the pieces offered are made with durable materials like premium-grade steel and have weather-protectant features.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: Over select items over $45

  HOME DEPOT

  RELATED:Best outdoor dining tables and sets

• Best Splurge: Arhaus

  

  Pros:

  • 14-day return policy
  • Design tools on website
  • Use of hardwood certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative

  Cons:

  • Lack of color options with some items

  Editor’s Pick:Arhaus Root Outdoor Coffee Table

  Arhaus is known for simplistic designs encapsulated through its high-end, minimalist pieces. They have everything you can think of as far as outdoor furniture is concerned, including amazing centerpieces that instantly elevate an outdoor space. Although the pieces are definitely an investment, they really do have something for every space and taste, including outdoor kitchen furniture,ottomans, and sofas so luxe, you’ll want a replica for indoors.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$ | Free shipping: No

  ARHAUS

• Best Fire Pits: BBQGuys

  

  Pros:

  • Durable furniture
  • Massive selection from a variety of outdoor categories
  • No restocking fees

  Cons:

  • Some of the conversational sets have a retro style that won’t speak to everyone. However, this is still one of our favorite places to shop.

  Editor’s Pick:Elysian 42 Inch Rectangular Powder Coated Steel Natural Gas Fire Pit Table

  Although the name may sound confined to BBQ grills and accessories, BBQGuys is one of the best places to buy outdoor patio furniture. This is especially true if you’re big into hosting large gatherings. Besides the typical dining sets and seating arrangements, they have fire pits, fire pit sets, outdoor TVs, and everything else you could think of to throw epic get togethers. Don’t be surprised if every neighbor wants to “drop by” once you’ve set your new outdoor space up.

  Details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: Over orders of $49 or more

  BBQGUYS

• Best Rattan: Anthropologie

  

  Details:

  • Price range: $$-$$$
  • Best: Bohemian
  • Free shipping: On select items

  Why we like it:

  • Modern-vintage feel
  • Easy to clean pieces
  • Little to no assembly required options

  Editor’s Pick:Plumage Indoor/Outdoor Bird-Inspired Rattan Chair

  Anthropologie, for years, has been one of our most acclaimed online destinations for furniture, fashion pieces and home trinkets (seriously, our wishlist is never-ending). That said, it’s a worthwhile place to shop for outdoor patio furniture, especially for à la carte, unique items like hanging swings, ornate dining chairs and more. Many of the outdoor options are sealed in a weather-protectant, but we still suggest reading product details before adding anything to your cart. Some pieces, like the Hourglass Indoor/Outdoor Coffee Table (from $398), need to be covered and probably would do better under an enclosed area rather than an open yard.

  ANTHROPOLOGIE

• Best Seating Covers: Burrow

  

  Pros:

  • Clean, vintage aesthetic
  • Easy to assemble pieces
  • All-weather fabrics

  Cons:

  • Covers are only available in one color, but since they’re not meant to be decorative, we can overlook it

  Editor’s Pick:Two Relay Outdoor 3-Piece Armless Sofas & Coffee Table Set, (Seating Covers)

  This online retailer is mostly keen on sectional sofas, but there’s a variety of other options to choose from. More, you can choose how many seating options you’d like, depending on your preference and budget. Many of the pieces have a mid-century feel, so if you like straight lines and things with a modern but retro look, it’s the place to know. The brand also has incredible seating covers that can fit all types of shapes. When it’s time to prep your furniture for winter, they literally have you covered.

  Details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: Yes

  BURROW

• Best Umbrellas: Ledge Lounger

  

  Pros:

  • Easy to create an arrangement that fits your patio or outdoor space perfectly
  • Color and fabric options
  • Each collection has its own warranty that ranges anywhere from 1-10 years.

  Cons:

  • There isn’t a huge selection for each category

  Editor’s Pick: Essential Fiber Glass Umbrella

  Ledge Lounger is a one-stop shop for elevated poolside furniture and outdoor accessories to turn your backyard into a hotel resort-worthy space for gathering and hosting. Most pieces are multipurpose enough to go from in your pool to your yard, plus they come with weather-friendly features. It’s a great place to shop, especially if you’re looking for mildew resistant seating, color options and fabric variety.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  LEDGE LOUNGER

• Best Accent Tables: Brooke & Lou

  

  Pros:

  • Use of natural materials
  • Easy to clean options
  • Old-fashion meets modern aesthetic

  Cons:

  • Smaller selection of outdoor furniture

  Editor’s Pick:Oasis Table

  Though Brooke & Lou doesn’t have the widest selection, it has some quaint pieces that are perfect surrounding your poolside or small patio alike. Many of the option have weather-friendly details, like all-weather wicker but not all, so we recommend reading the specs when finding the right furniture piece for your home. The retailer also has an abundance of gorgeous things for inside as well, so don’t be surprised if something finds its way into your cart.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  BROOKE & LOU

• Best Chaise Lounges: Lulu & Georgia

  

  Pros:

  • Indoor/outdoor furniture
  • Pieces with unique shapes and structure
  • Referral program

  Cons:

  • Not much of a selection for those who like bright colors

  Editor’s Pick:Cadenza Indoor/Outdoor Chaise

  If you love looking at photos of the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera, we’re placing bets that Lulu & Georgia is an outdoor patio furniture destination you’ll gleam over. Even better, some selections are both indoor and outdoor appropriate, especially fitting for smaller spaces and lovely to the eyes. There are sculptural pieces, like the Anja Indoor/Outdoor Coffee Table ($1,598, $1,118), which stand alone like works of art. There are also stylish but cleverly designed pieces, like the Jolie Indoor/Outdoor Accent Chair ($1,119) which is breathable and made from all-weather wicker.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  LULU & GEORGIA

• Best Metal: Target

  

  Pros:

  • Trendy pieces
  • Virtual staging on Target’s website
  • More than 31 different brands

  Cons:

  • Other materials, like wood, may not be as durable as other retailers’

  Editor’s Picks:Costway 3-Piece Patio Rattan Bistro Furniture Set

  For affordable and simplistic outdoor patio furniture that’s sure to complete your backyard oasis, look no further than Target. Specifically, this retailer offers conversation sets, bistro and dining sets and an array of match-all, well-made pieces spanning from modern to farmhouse aesthetics. It’s a great place to find budget-friendly items without sacrificing personal taste.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  RELATED: Best sleeper sofas

  TARGET

• Best Teak: Neighbor

  

  Pros:

  • Furniture designed to meet the elements
  • Simple but modern pieces
  • Color options

  Cons:

  • Small selection of outdoor dining chairs

  Editor’s Pick:Haven Sectional

  Neighbor is a direct-to-consumer online furniture brand that’s dedicated to supplying you with modern, timeless and chic pieces that will withstand years of memory-making use. Its nod to wooden accents and plush cushions give it an appeal to virtually any aesthetic, and the ability to choose your color fabric for most pieces is a huge bonus. More importantly, the pieces offered by the retailer are designed with the outdoors in mind, so whether you live in an area that sees a lot of rain or sun, your backyard furniture should stay in solid condition.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: Yes

  NEIGHBOR

• Best Tables: Sundays Company

  

  Pros:

  • Easy to clean items
  • Sturdy materials
  • Lots of space saving options

  Cons:

  • Smaller selection of outdoor furniture

  Editor’s Pick:Table Talk Outdoor Coffee Table

  With slim designs and contemporary and modern character alike, Sundays Company has a unique collection of dining and seating options for your deck or patio that are reasonably priced, yet well-made. If you’re looking for match-all pieces that won’t break the bank — but still tether on the luxury side of things — this is your hot spot.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: Yes

  SUNDAYS COMPANY

• Best Rugs:

  Lowe’s

  

  Pros:

  • Exclusive brands
  • Price matching
  • Patio sets as low as $600

  Cons:

  • Options are mostly in the traditional and contemporary categories

  Editor’s Pick: allen + roth with Stainmaster rug

  Charming and superb for a greenery-flocked yard, Lowe’s vast selection of patio furniture isn’t just home-y but it won’t be hard on your wallet, either. The brand has a wide variety of wicker, aluminum and hybrid-metaled options for you to buy for some R&R. Plus, the pieces are well-crafted and cast a wide net of aesthetics.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On orders $45 and up

  LOWE’S

• Best Outdoor Lighting: HSN

  

  Pros:

  • Ability to shop by material
  • Lots of small space friendly options
  • Free exchanges

  Cons:

  • Many items don’t have reviews or a rating

  Editor’s Pick:Nature Spring 8-Piece Solar Outdoor Light Set

  The Home Shopping Network — dubbed HSN for short — is a phenomenal made-to-order destination to create the outdoor patio setup of your dreams. We can’t stop staring at all the teak and vibrant hybrids characteristic featured in many of its sets. It has a wide selection of umbrellas, tables and pieces ideal for smaller patios or back porches, so if your backyard is on the humbler side, no problem. And if you end up changing your mind on an item, you’ll be happy to know the retailer offers free exchanges for up to 30-days.

  Brand details: Price range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  HSN

• Best Organic Materials: Goodee

  

  Pros:

  • Space saving options
  • Pieces with pops of color
  • Eco-conscious

  Cons:

  • Very small collection of items

  Editor’s Pick:Goodee Stackable Picnic Stool

  One-of-a-kind, eclectic pieces are the name of the game for direct-to-consumer brand Goodee. Though its selection isn’t widespread, it has some fairly priced finds that are a step above your traditional locale. They don’t have an abundance of options, as far as outdoor patio furniture is concerned. However, what they do have is gorgeous, featuring natural elements and a handcrafted look that we love. We highly recommend, especially if you have a smaller space or are just looking for a single piece to make your outdoor area sparkle.

  Brand details: $$$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  GOODEE

• Best Modern: Modloft

  

  Pros:

  • All-weather materials
  • High-performance fabric options
  • Luxe designs

  Cons:

  • No outdoor lighting options

  Editor’s Pick:Netta Sectional Sofa XL

  As its name suggests, Modloft is a boutique outdoor patio furnitEditor’s Pick: Modloft Netta Chaise are company that specializes in both seating and dining designs. Its wise blend of modern frames and plush cushions is enough to draw us to its selections, and we especially love its conscious curvature detailing and beautiful finish.

  Brand details: Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Free shipping: No

  MODLOFT

• Best Adirondack Chairs: QVC

  

  Pros:

  • Frequent promotional offers
  • Nice variety of options

  Cons:

  • Lack of reviews on many of the products

  Editor’s Pick:Lionel Home Outdoor Silas Adirondack Chair

  QVC surely isn’t just for the TV — the online retailer has a fully stocked collection of outdoor patio furniture that’s ideal for any sized space. Notably, it’s a top spot for dining sets (though the brand has some sectional-style offerings on deck) and one-piece additions as well, like fire pits and traditional Adirondack chairs. If you’re really watching your pennies, there are often promotional deals on select items, too, so it’s definitely worth bookmarking.

  Brand details: Price Range: $$-$$$ | Free shipping: On select items

  QVC

Our Top Brands Compared, At a Glance

Meet the Experts

• Meridith Baer: Founder of renowned home staging companies with 25+ years of experience
• Meg Lonergan: Houston-based interior designer
• Sarah Vaile: Firm principal of Sarah Vaile Design and Chicago-based residential design expert

An FAQ on Outdoor Patio Furniture

Ahead, our team of design experts gave us the 411 on what to look for in quality outdoor patio furniture to match your aesthetic and suit your budget.

What to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor patio furniture, according to experts

According to Sarah Vaile, firm principal of Sarah Vaile Design and Chicago-based residential design expert, “the most important questions to ask are functionality, seasonality and, of course, aesthetics.”

Regarding functionality, you may ask, ‘how do you plan to use the space, primarily for entertaining or every night for the family dinner? As far as seasonality is concerned, ‘when do you plan to use the space?‘

“There are so many great heating options available now, whether a ceiling heater or fire source; spaces that might have been strictly summer can now be used for three or even four seasons,” Vaile adds. “For aesthetics, there are many different furniture styles depending on the home’s architectural style and location whether iron, wicker or teak to name a few.”

Of course, you’ll also want to keep comfort in mind. “Your outdoor patio area wants to be inviting,” Lonergan adds. “Think deep seats, thick cushions, and quality; materials that are made to last, covers, durable fabrics.”

RELATED:Best online furniture stores

How to design an outdoor patio furniture when working with a blank slate, per experts

Picasso had a blank canvas at some point, and he now has decades-renowned masterpieces. So is the case with your backyard oasis as you build out your furniture landscape step-by-step.

“I design outdoor spaces the same way I do their indoor counterparts,” Vaille explains. “Will it serve as the outdoor family room or dining room? Then I start with a sofa and coffee table — or dining table and chairs — and style from there.”

Vaille loves incorporating fire sources too, whether through a traditional fireplace, fire table or fire pit. “They create a gathering place and further extend the seasonality of the space,” she adds.

Don’t forget a patio umbrella, either. “You gotta protect that skin care regime!” Lonergan notes. “If all you have is a single chair and an umbrella, it works.”

How to design your space based on your backyard, according to experts

Whether you’re working with a smaller yard or acres of land, ensuring you’re optimizing your space to the best of your ability is key. Ahead, Lonergan and Vaille share what to prioritize buying for your particular space:

Small Backyard

“Small spaces are some of my favorite to design,” Vaille says. “I love to dive into the intimacy of a small space and create sort of a secret enclosed garden.”

Particularly, you’ll want to shop for an umbrella and lightweight, petite chairs to accentuate your small square footage, per Lonergan.

Large Backyard

For larger spaces, chaise lounges, sofas and long dining tables are the way to go, according to Lonergan.

“The key in large backyards is to create separate zones that are still cozy and inviting,” Vaille shares. “Pergolas, fire sources, low-branching trees and potted plants are our favorite ways to create separate zones within a large yard.”

Poolside

Who doesn’t love a poolside chaise? “My dermatologist would equally want umbrellas between every other chair,” Vaille suggests. “I like to channel boutique resorts in our poolside decorating.”

Aside from a good patio umbrella, Lonergan also recommends a top-tier pool float — both for soaking up the sun’s rays and serving as an Instagram-worthy decor element.

Porch / Balcony

“A bistro table and chairs are always the first pieces I start with on a balcony,” Vaille shares. “If space allows, I love a sectional that can be sized to exactly fit a corner to create a lounging nook. You would surprised how little space you need to squeeze one in.”

More, look for plants and a garden stool, per Lonergan. “A pair of garden stools can act as a chair and a table to hold an ash tray, if desired.”

What materials are outdoor patio furniture pieces typically made from?

You may spot a wicker-style set that you can’t stop glossing over. Or, you have practicality at top of mind and are concerned about purchasing a weather-resistant or storm-grade set.

To help you best understand the differences among the thousands of outdoor patio pieces on the market, we turned to Meridith Baer, founder of one of the nation’s most premier home staging companies with more than 25 years of experience, to describe some of the most popular materials:

• Wood: Wood is beautiful and gives a comfortable feeling to outdoor spaces, but needs to be refinished every few years.
• Teak: Teak is long-lasting, naturally weather-resistant and easy to maintain. In time, it becomes a beautiful silvery color. However, it’s expensive and can warp and require maintenance.
• Acacia: Acacia is long-lasting, weathers nicely, is sustainable and typically more affordable than teak.
• Wicker & Rattan: These materials are lightweight and durable, easy to move around but expensive, difficult to clean and can blow away and fall during extreme weather.
• Wrought Iron: Wrought iron is sturdy and long-lasting but needs protection from rust. It can be expensive and because it’s heavy, it’s hard to move around and cushions are required. 
• Aluminum & Powder-Coated Steel: These materials are modern-looking and more affordable than wood and iron but blow away, fade and may be hard to clean.

“Most styles are derived from great outdoor and coastal destinations,” Vaille adds. “Whether it’s Mediterranean iron, lakeside wicker, East Coast fretwork or mountain Adirondack, there are plenty of different aesthetics to choose from that are traditionally a bit territorial in nature.”

When is the best time to buy outdoor patio furniture?

While investing in a new outdoor patio furniture set is a personal decision based on when you’re going to make the most use of it, it’s important to take full advantage of sales. New York Post Shopping consistently sees deals on Amazon and elsewhere for patio sets year-round, but we decided to consult our team of design experts to source their timing recommendations.

Baer recommends buying some new pieces “at the end of the warm season when it is on sale.” Similarly, Lonergan advises adding outdoor patio furniture “six months before you’re going to want to use it.”

As for Vaille’s design firm, they typically start thinking about outdoor spaces right after the New Year. “That first great weather weekend in the spring always pops up sooner than you’d think!” she adds.

What’s the best fabric for outdoor patio furniture?

“Coated polyester, acrylic and olefin [are the best fabrics] because they wear better than natural fibers and are naturally resistant to moisture, mold and mildew,” Baer explains.”Sunbrella-type fabrics, like polypropylene, which dries faster and is UV and stain-resistant, is also good.”

It’s important to note that durable outdoor fabric should be easy to clean with soap and water. “The color should be baked into the yarn to ensure that it stays vibrant,” she adds.

Vaille’s design firm collectively enjoys the Perennials outdoor textile line. “They have really mastered solution-dyed acrylics that feel like indoor linens and cottons yet are resistant to sun-fading, mildew and mold — and the best part: bleach-cleanable,” she says.

How to care for outdoor patio furniture, per experts

When buying outdoor patio furniture, you want to ensure you properly maintain it. According to Vaille, you should always use a furniture cover to help your furniture stay good-as-new for longer. “In the winter, of course, bring your cushions inside,” she adds.

Wonderfully, the brand Outer offers patio furniture covers that are thoughtfully made (and, made to last). Additionally, if you’re looking for covers that won’t break your budget, Amazon has lots of affordable options.

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