The Best Outdoor Furniture Brands, According to Experts
Updated: Jul. 16, 2024
Looking to spruce up your backyard or patio area? We consulted with landscapers and designers to find the best outdoor furniture brands.
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You don’t need to be a design expert to turn your patio area into an outdoor sanctuary. By browsing the best outdoor furniture brands, you can easily find a weatherproof and stylish chair or sofa that can keep you comfortable while slapping burgers and dogs on the grill.
Our shopping editors always like to stress that there’s no best anything, and it’s the same here. Some outdoor furniture stores focus on aesthetics, while others center more on sustainable furniture that can withstand all types of weather.
We’ve consulted with multiple landscapers, interior designers and other experts to find out which outdoor furniture brands you should go for based on the size of your outdoor space, local climate and more. We’ll also suggest our favorite patio chairs, gazebos, umbrellas and more.
Sunbrella
Pros:
- Weather-proof
- UV-resistant
- Durable
- Many color options
- Available at most major retailers
Cons:
- Expensive
Sunbrella produces durable, easy-to-clean, and weather-resistant fabrics for outdoor furniture. The fabrics can withstand years of sun exposure before fading.
“Their quality craftsmanship, extensive range of products and commitment to both style and durability make them a top choice for outdoor furniture enthusiasts,” says Richard Heaton, managing director of United Kingdom gardening brand Copagrey. “Sunbrella offers comfortable chairs, stylish couches and tables that suit various outdoor spaces.”
Sunbrella products can be found at Costco, Sam’s Club and online at Wayfair. One of our favorite options with Sunbrella cushions is the Deco 96-inch Wicker Outdoor Patio Sofa, a wicker sofa with weatherproof and easy-to-clean padding. Additionally, it’s lightweight and can be used as a sectional sofa if you have company.
Polywood
Pros:
- Environmentally-friendly
- Easy to clean
- Multiple color options
- 20-year warranty
Cons:
- Customers complain that some parts are missing/damaged
If you’re looking for attractive, low-maintenance outdoor furniture, Polywood is your best bet. The brand is also committed to making sustainable furniture with recyclable plastic.
“Polywood merges eco-friendly innovation with timeless designs—the perfect marriage of form and function for green living,” says California realty expert Ryan Nelson. “As someone deeply committed to sustainable practices, I always recommend Polywood to my environmentally-minded clients.”
Nelson and other design experts recommend the adjustable Adirondack Chair, which is available in multiple colors and can be purchased individually or as part of a set.
“It’s an icon of outdoor furniture, reimagined with recycled plastic lumber that’s built to withstand harsh seasons,” Nelson says.
The best part? Polywood offers a 20-year warranty that protects its items against corrosion, stains and splintering.
Castlery
Pros:
- Modern look
- Durable and weather-proof materials
- Wide variety of products
- Financing available
Cons:
- Only a 14-day return window
For those looking for modern outdoor furniture that doesn’t break the bank, Castlery offers weather-proof sofas and coffee and dining tables. The frames are made of aluminum or rattan weave, both durable and rust-resistant, so they will stand up to most weather events, and water-repellent covers. Want to “test” out the furniture before committing? Castlery will deliver up to three fabric swatches at no cost, not even shipping, so you can see how it looks on your patio.
One piece that stands out is their Malta Outdoor Lounge Chair. In addition to being suitable for outdoor use, these chairs (available individually or as part of a pair) swivel and arrive fully assembled at your door.
West Elm
Pros:
- Multiple size options for apartment dwellers with balconies
- Stylish and durable
- Sells rugs and outdoor heating units
- White glove delivery service available in some areas
Cons:
- No warranty
Whether you’re looking for an outdoor dining set to perfect your outdoor grill set-up or want to get cozy on a big chair by the fire, West Elm has you covered.
“West Elm offers stylish and durable outdoor furniture that’s perfect for both modern and traditional settings,” says realtor Dorin Simchi.
In addition to the classic chairs and bar stools, the store has a wide selection of outdoor kitchen and bar furniture, such as a portside aluminum outdoor kitchen with a built-in cabinet for a mini-fridge.
The Portside Outdoor Sofa is another fan favorite. It’s available in three sizes, making it a good option for everyone from apartment owners with balconies to those who live in their backyard during the summer. You can pick between three frame finish options, though it only comes with Pearl Gray covers—other colored cushions are sold separately. If you live in an especially rainy area, there is a cover for an additional charge.
Some areas may qualify for white glove delivery service if you’d like a professional to handle assembly. Outdoor rugs and heating units are also available.
Alfresco Home
Pros:
- Made with durable materials
- Budget-friendly
- Weather-resistant
- Stylish
Cons:
- Difficult assembly
Interior design expert Anh Nguyen recommends Alfresco Home for people who want outdoor furniture that will make it look like they spent a lot of money, but in reality, you got a bargain even without a patio furniture sale. Moreover, Nguyen says Alfresco Home chairs and other furniture are built to last.
“Their cast aluminum and synthetic wicker creations are as eye-catching as they are tough,” she says. “Style and substance without breaking the bank.”
An often overlooked item, the water-resistant Resin Lockable Deck Box is something most people should have in their patio areas. The weatherproof and lockable box can hold up to 250 pounds of cushions, blankets and anything else you need to keep dry when the rainy season arrives.
Fermob
Pros:
- Space-efficient and foldable
- Vibrant colors
- Weather- and UV-resistant
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Pricey
Need something that’s a little more compact than most patio chairs and sofas? Interior designer Elissa Hall says Fermob specializes in space-efficient outdoor furniture that’s just as durable and weather-resistant as larger pieces.
“This French brand is known for its vibrant colors and compact designs, making it ideal for balconies and patios,” Hall says. “Their metal furniture is coated with UV-resistant paint, ensuring that the pieces remain bright and beautiful over time.”
She recommends items from the Bistro Collection, such as the Bistro metal chair that comes in vibrant colors. “It’s a classic, offering foldable tables and chairs that are easy to store when not in use,” Hall says of the Bistro collection. Although sold separately, there are weatherproof cushions that can be used with the chairs.
Rattaner
Pros:
- Affordable
- Weather-proof
- Lightweight
- Great customer service
Cons:
- Complicated assembly
Rattaner has more than 1,000 5-star Amazon reviews from customers who love the brand’s durability and affordability.
“I have wanted a set like this for a few years but didn’t want to pay the store prices,” writes Amazon reviewer Stephanie M. “Was worried it wouldn’t be as good quality but I was wrong.”
For under $1,000, you can get an entire patio set with anti-slip cushions and waterproof covers, with the option of a storage table or a fire pit table in three colors. The company also received many positive reviews for its customer service—a representative will respond to any customer complaints within 24 hours if a piece is missing or damaged.
Birch Lane
Pros:
- Rustic-looking furniture
- Made with sustainable materials
- Not too expensive
- Weather-proof materials
Cons:
- Only a one-year warranty
Birch Lane is a one-stop shop for those who have a farmhouse or want to give their outdoor area a more farm-type look.
“A product of the Wayfair family, Birch Lane boasts unique, high-quality rustic furniture designs that are perfect for homeowners looking for long-lasting furniture that can withstand any weather,” says landscaping expert Ivo Iv of Decor Home Ideas.
If you’re in a warmer climate, you might enjoy their line of eucalyptus dining chairs and tables. Eucalyptus is a sustainable type of wood that’s rot- and water-resistant, but it doesn’t do well in colder areas and requires regular maintenance. If you don’t mind that, Iv recommends pairing Birch Lane’s all-weather patio dining seats with its Eucalyptus Outdoor Dining Table. It’s UV-resistant and comes with a two-inch hole for an umbrella.
Hampton Bay
Pros:
- Cushions made with weather-proof and stain-resistant materials
- Affordable
- Low-maintenance
- Good warranty
Cons:
- Some products may be unavailable in your area
Hampton Bay patio furniture is a The Home Depot-exclusive company that produces everything from fire pits to pool area seating. It uses weatherproof materials, such as Sunbrella fabrics, on its chairs and chaise lounges and offers a three-year warranty on the frame and cushion of select products. Many outdoor companies only cover their products for a year, if that.
There are various collections to suit your backyard needs, but we’re a fan of the Strap Chaise Lounge with Aluminum Frame. Customer reviewers say this adjustable lounge chair feels like what you’d get at a commercial swimming facility, and the seat is available in four colors.
Outsunny
Pros:
- Great for sun protection
- Budget-friendly
- Various pool and patio accessories
- Produce outdoor table games
Cons:
- Short warranties
As the name implies, Outsunny is built for those who want to soak up the sun in style. From freestanding showers to mini-greenhouses, this company has what you need to ensure you can spend every second possible by the pool. Of course, you’ll need some shade occasionally, which is why we recommend their steel gazebo. Available in four colors at a modest price, customer reviewers love how well it holds up against all types of weather and its easy assembly.
The outdoor gazebo can be easily disassembled and reassembled if you want to take it on the road, it has a UV50+ protection rating, so it won’t fade from sun exposure, and its height can be customized based on your needs.
What to Look for When Buying Outdoor Furniture
When shopping for outdoor furniture, it’s important to remember that you can’t just buy a regular sofa and place it in your backyard. Here are a few things to look for when building your backyard oasis:
Weather-proof materials: Look for outdoor furniture made with water-repellent materials, such as polyester and nylon. You should still keep it covered when rain is forecast, but it’s less likely to be ruined than something made of cotton, which absorbs water and becomes soggy and uncomfortable to sit on. Additionally, the frame should be made of a rust-proof material like aluminum.
UV resistance: It’s also important to look for UV-resistant furniture. This means the colors are guaranteed to not fade over time.
Durability: Outdoor furniture is an investment, so look for furniture with high weight limits that can be used for several years before needing to be replaced.
Aesthetics: Of course, your outdoor furniture should match the aesthetic of your patio or backyard.
Space: Finally, make sure the furniture fits your space. Many companies have started making more compact, foldable outdoor furniture for those with apartment balconies or smaller backyards.
Feeling crafty? Check out our DIY outdoor furniture guide.
Why You Should Trust Us
As shopping editors, we know how to find the best deals. We’re also homeowners and apartment dwellers who enjoy sitting outside when the weather’s nice, so we’ve done our fair share of researching, buying and testing patio chairs, chaise lounges, fire pits and more.
For this piece, we consulted more than a dozen interior designers, landscapers and realty experts with decades of experience designing backyards for themselves and their clients. We received recommendations for more than 25 brands and cut them down to the final 10 based on their inventory, pricing and customer service policies (i.e. returns and warranties). We also asked our experts to recommend their favorite products from each brand.
FAQ
What is the best long-lasting outdoor furniture?
Outsunny and Sunbrella are two great choices for those who want long-lasting outdoor furniture. Both brands manufacture weather-resistant and UV-resistant products, which means they won’t fade or deteriorate after prolonged rain and sun exposure.
What patio furniture is good in the rain?
Patio furniture made with Sunbrella cushions are great at repelling water, making them a great choice for those who live in rainy climates.
What patio furniture brands should I avoid?
Avoid any patio furniture brands that have products that can’t withstand rain or sun exposure. Look for water-repellent and UV-resistant products.
Sources:
- Richard Heaton, managing director of United Kingdom gardening brand Copagrey
- Ryan Nelson, California realty expert and founder and CEO of Rental Real Estate
- Dorin Simchi, realtor and co-founder of Proven House Buyers
- Anh Nguyen, interior design expert and owner of Print My Rugs
- Elissa Hall, interior designer and owner of EDH Interiors
- Ivo Iv, landscape expert of Decor Home Ideas
Originally Published: July 16, 2024
