Lounge chairs, patio umbrellas, durable rugs, and other things you'll need to enhance your outdoor hangs.
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So, the weather is finally getting nice enough to go outside — just not for everyone, though. Lockdown restrictions still have a lot of people confined to their homes, assuming they don't have a backyard.
If you do happen to have your own outdoor space — whether it's a patio or an entire pool setup — you're in luck. Yes, you're allowed to go out, and we are very happy for you.
It's probable that you'll be spending more time out there than usual, so it's better to make it comfortable, welcoming, and an expression of your taste. That means you're going to need to get some furniture if you don't already have some.
But shopping for outdoor furniture can prove to be a bit trickier than picking something out for your living room or home office. Outdoor furniture is unique in that it's, well, outdoors. That means whatever you're going to get has to be able to withstand the elements. If it can't take the heat (or rain), get it out of the kitchen — or in this case, your patio.
What makes a great piece of outdoor furniture?
There are four main factors you should take into account when shopping for outdoor furniture: style, size, comfort, and durability (especially against inclement weather).
When it comes to style, it's really about your personal preference. Does the piece speak to you? Does it embody your overall vibe? Does it clash with other items you might have? All in all, you need to be happy with the way it looks, whether you're into adding a pop of color or keeping it strictly minimalist.
Size is something you really don't want to forget about. If you haven't already, you should stop reading this article to measure whatever outdoor space you're working with (and then come back and keep reading). Whether you like the furniture or not, it needs to actually fit the way you want it to. If it doesn't, it's a non-starter. Also, if you opt to go for fashion over practicality, you might want to consider your ability to fit each piece into storage just in case it isn't meant to be out in certain types of weather.
The comfort factor is self-explanatory. Could you see yourself lounging on a certain chair all day, or is it going to have you cramping after an hour? Maybe a big, cushy loveseat isn't your thing, but if you fall on the other end of that spectrum, you should be sure that it'll suit your body's needs.
And then there's durability, which is debatably the most important of the four factors. Take special note of what each piece is made of. Will it rot if it gets wet? Will it warp in extreme heat? Will it fall apart if a rogue squirrel decides to make its new home in it? If you're going to spend hundreds of dollars on furniture, you're going to want it to last — or else it was all for nothing.
What's the best outdoor furniture?
We took all the factors mentioned above into account when picking our list, and we think the following options hit all the marks when it comes to the intersection of style, size, comfort, and durability.
In our process, we chose one piece from what we considered to be the definitive furniture categories that most people look for when laying out their patio or pool deck — from rugs, to lounge chairs, to umbrellas, and more. (Check out our furniture picks for small spaces if you're low on square footage.)
So go ahead, take a look and envision each piece in your own space. Can you see it? We hope it looks good to you.
Hand-woven • Shed-resistant • Sustainably sourced • Maintains softness • Can hold up to the elements and easy to care for • Stylish and brings a slight pop of color to the space
Advertised as "reversible," but the opposite side of the rug doesn't look like it was meant to be displayed • Doesn't come with a rug pad, and you may need one depending on your space
The Bottom Line
This outdoor rug from West Elm looks great and can help tie your outdoor space together — it's also durable against nature, easy to care for, and soft to the touch.1. Ombre Pop Indoor/Outdoor Rug
When getting an outdoor rug, you need to place extra importance on its durability — this one checks that box, and also looks great.While a rug might not be the first thing you think of when putting together an outdoor area, it's certainly a great non-essential item to have if you really want to tie the space together (yes, that is a Big Lebowski reference).
Durability becomes even more important when choosing an outdoor rug, though. Get the wrong kind, and we promise it'll fall apart after just a few ill-placed raindrops.
This rug from West Elm is totally hand-woven, reversible, and really easy to care for. Made from recycled polyester, the rug maintains a soft feel and is also highly durable. It'll hold up against the elements as well as heavy foot traffic, and it'll look good doing it. It's also shed-resistant, so you shouldn't see any bits flying off of it even after a decent amount of usage.
The one thing we wish was better about this rug is its "reversible" nature — honestly, the opposite side of the rug doesn't look like it's meant to be displayed, but you may think differently. Also, it doesn't come with a rug pad (most don't), so make sure to get one of those depending on your chosen surface.
Durability becomes even more important when choosing an outdoor rug, though. Get the wrong kind, and we promise it'll fall apart after just a few ill-placed raindrops.
This rug from West Elm is totally hand-woven, reversible, and really easy to care for. Made from recycled polyester, the rug maintains a soft feel and is also highly durable. It'll hold up against the elements as well as heavy foot traffic, and it'll look good doing it. It's also shed-resistant, so you shouldn't see any bits flying off of it even after a decent amount of usage.
The one thing we wish was better about this rug is its "reversible" nature — honestly, the opposite side of the rug doesn't look like it's meant to be displayed, but you may think differently. Also, it doesn't come with a rug pad (most don't), so make sure to get one of those depending on your chosen surface.
Chair curvature adds extra comfort • Durable faux rattan weave design • Small cushion included • Plenty of space to lounge
Needs to be stored if weather gets especially bad • Ottoman sold separately
The Bottom Line
This wicker style chair from CB2 is ergonomic, comfortable, durable against most weather conditions, and a great way to relax out in the sun.2. Outdoor Basket Chair
This CB2 chair will hold up against mild weather conditions, and is super comfortable to lounge in for long periods of time.Who doesn't love a good basket chair? They're a nice neutral piece to add to your outdoor setup and provide plenty of space to lounge and enjoy the sun.
This faux rattan weave chair from CB2 brings the style, comfort, and durability you need in a kick-back spot for your patio. It's modern-looking and eye-catching, but not enough to stick out in a bad way. The curvature and shape of the chair is designed to conform to your body naturally, and it comes with a polyester cushion for a bit of added comfort.
While this chair stands up to most mild weather conditions, CB2 recommends moving it to storage if you expect really bad storms coming your way (as is the case with most wicker-style furniture) — other than that, it should hold up just fine.
Although the chair is pictured with an ottoman on the product page, it doesn't come included, but we recommend picking it up if you can so you can really sprawl out and relax.
This faux rattan weave chair from CB2 brings the style, comfort, and durability you need in a kick-back spot for your patio. It's modern-looking and eye-catching, but not enough to stick out in a bad way. The curvature and shape of the chair is designed to conform to your body naturally, and it comes with a polyester cushion for a bit of added comfort.
While this chair stands up to most mild weather conditions, CB2 recommends moving it to storage if you expect really bad storms coming your way (as is the case with most wicker-style furniture) — other than that, it should hold up just fine.
Although the chair is pictured with an ottoman on the product page, it doesn't come included, but we recommend picking it up if you can so you can really sprawl out and relax.
Rust-resistant steel frame • Durable, open-weave wicker • Large and comfortable cushions
Some assembly required
The Bottom Line
The Standish loveseat is a great option to have around if you regularly have guests over — it has large cushions and a durable frame that will last, plus it should match with all of your other furniture seamlessly.3. Standish Patio Loveseat
The Standish loveseat is more than its looks — it's designed with comfort and durability in mind, which is exemplified in the soft cushions and sturdy steel frame.While some would spring for a full outdoor couch, we think a loveseat is the better option. It allows for a more free-flowing space and is less bulky than that four-seater you might've been eyeing up.
The Standish loveseat is cozy, provides plenty of space, and pairs nicely with the CB2 chair above thanks to the wicker detailing on the sides. The legs are made with sturdy steel, and it's completely rust-resistant for long-lasting use. The wicker armrests are sturdy, and their open-weave design gives the whole thing an airy and light feel.
One Target reviewer writes:
The Standish loveseat is cozy, provides plenty of space, and pairs nicely with the CB2 chair above thanks to the wicker detailing on the sides. The legs are made with sturdy steel, and it's completely rust-resistant for long-lasting use. The wicker armrests are sturdy, and their open-weave design gives the whole thing an airy and light feel.
One Target reviewer writes:
Love this seat! Even better in person. Nice and roomy and looks great on my porch! Definitely a quality piece at a good price and super easy to put together.
Compact, but not too small • Mesh lid holds in embers and debris • Sturdy construction
Not totally rust-proof
The Bottom Line
Every hangout session is better with a fire pit, and this one should never get in your way.4. Kingso Outdoor Fire Pit
Enhance your hangout sessions with this fire pit — it's well-made and just compact enough to not get in your way.A hangout with friends scientifically 10 times better with a fire pit. Look it up.
This 22-inch fire pit on Amazon is great for outdoor spaces of most sizes, and is just small enough to not get in your way (but not too small — that wouldn't be as fun).
It has a solid steel underside that keeps everything in place, while the grated lid prevents embers and debris from flying out. The pit is compatible with the use of either firewood or charcoal.
The pit's tempered steel construction and heat-resistant finish makes this fire pit durable and fit to last through the seasons. Unfortunately, the fire pit is not rust proof, so you might need to store it inside during bad weather.
This 22-inch fire pit on Amazon is great for outdoor spaces of most sizes, and is just small enough to not get in your way (but not too small — that wouldn't be as fun).
It has a solid steel underside that keeps everything in place, while the grated lid prevents embers and debris from flying out. The pit is compatible with the use of either firewood or charcoal.
The pit's tempered steel construction and heat-resistant finish makes this fire pit durable and fit to last through the seasons. Unfortunately, the fire pit is not rust proof, so you might need to store it inside during bad weather.
All-weather cover is removable and machine washable • Supportive frame with body-conforming beads inside • Great for napping
Be wary of rips • If you're on the taller side, it probably won't be long enough for you
The Bottom Line
Welcome to your ultimate nap chair — this beanbag bed from AllModern features an all-weather cover that can withstand more than you'd ever think, and a supportive frame with comfort-enhancing EPS beads.5. Daisha Outdoor Cushion
Sink into this beanbag cushion from AllModern — it'll conform to your body while staying supportive, and you can keep it outside without fear of damage.Outdoor naps are the best kind of naps (just remember to put on some sunscreen), which means having a nice daybed is more than necessary.
This beanbag style sun chair from AllModern adds pizzaz to your outdoor space, as well as a safe haven to rest your weary head. You might think that beanbags aren't the best option to rough it in the outdoors, but the designers of this chair obviously had that in mind.
The Daisha cushion has an "all-weather" cover — it's resistant to water, mildew, stains, and fading with over 1,500 hours of UV protection. If you do happen to spill a glass of wine on the chair, the cover is removable and machine washable. So yes, this isn't your average beanbag.
We didn't even talk about how comfortable it is yet. While the plastic frame keeps the overall shape of the chair, the bulk of it is filled with supportive, body-conforming EPS beads that'll basically cradle you to sleep.
Supportive, comfortable, and virtually weatherproof? We're in.
This beanbag style sun chair from AllModern adds pizzaz to your outdoor space, as well as a safe haven to rest your weary head. You might think that beanbags aren't the best option to rough it in the outdoors, but the designers of this chair obviously had that in mind.
The Daisha cushion has an "all-weather" cover — it's resistant to water, mildew, stains, and fading with over 1,500 hours of UV protection. If you do happen to spill a glass of wine on the chair, the cover is removable and machine washable. So yes, this isn't your average beanbag.
We didn't even talk about how comfortable it is yet. While the plastic frame keeps the overall shape of the chair, the bulk of it is filled with supportive, body-conforming EPS beads that'll basically cradle you to sleep.
Supportive, comfortable, and virtually weatherproof? We're in.
Matte black and minimalistic for seamless incorporation • Two tiers for extra storage • Twin towel racks and locking wheels • Sturdy iron frame
Some customers said it was wobbly, but not all experienced this
The Bottom Line
Win the host of the year award with this two-tiered serving cart — the rolling bar station has a strong iron frame and provides a great base for your wine collection.6. Poyen Outdoor Serving Cart
Now this is how you host a get-together — this serving cart has plenty of storage for drinks and snacks, fits in with any layout plan, and should last you quite a while with its strong iron frame.Playing host doesn't have to be a chore — if you have a fancy serving cart to show off, you might just want to start playing host more often.
This serving cart is one of the best we found. It's minimalistic as to not overpower, and has a sturdy iron frame that should withstand rain and other inclement conditions.
The matte black, low-key design will mesh with your space seamlessly, and you can add your own accents to it by decorating it with anything from a charcuterie board to a delicious pitcher of sangria. It also has two separate tiers for extra storage opportunities, as well as twin towel racks and locking roller wheels. Display your mobile bar station in style.
This serving cart is one of the best we found. It's minimalistic as to not overpower, and has a sturdy iron frame that should withstand rain and other inclement conditions.
The matte black, low-key design will mesh with your space seamlessly, and you can add your own accents to it by decorating it with anything from a charcuterie board to a delicious pitcher of sangria. It also has two separate tiers for extra storage opportunities, as well as twin towel racks and locking roller wheels. Display your mobile bar station in style.
Pole is resistant to rust, corrosion and peeling • Waterproof, UV resistant canopy • 10 feet of sun coverage • Vented design • Crank is easy to use and cantilever style frees up more space
Doesn't include base weights
The Bottom Line
This space-saving cantilever umbrella is simple to use and durable enough to withstand intense sun rays, large gusts of wind, and the test of time.7. Pennie Cantilever Umbrella
This cantilever umbrella gives you the space you want while protecting you from the sun and saving you from the stress of maintenance.At some point it gets a little hot out there, and the sun becomes more of a nuisance than a friend. That's why it's good to have a big old umbrella at the ready.
This cantilever umbrella is affordable and will fulfill its duties swimmingly. One of the biggest benefits of having a cantilever style umbrella is that you can place it off to the side of your furniture and still get great coverage, as opposed to placing the base right in the middle of everything and obscuring your line of sight. It really frees up a lot of space in the end.
This oversized umbrella is also totally waterproof and can provide up to 10 feet of sun protection. The canopy is UV-protective as well as fade resistant, and employs a two-tier vented design that lets air flow freely through it, which keeps it from blowing over. And to keep things easy, you can control the entire thing with a simple hand crank.
This cantilever umbrella is affordable and will fulfill its duties swimmingly. One of the biggest benefits of having a cantilever style umbrella is that you can place it off to the side of your furniture and still get great coverage, as opposed to placing the base right in the middle of everything and obscuring your line of sight. It really frees up a lot of space in the end.
This oversized umbrella is also totally waterproof and can provide up to 10 feet of sun protection. The canopy is UV-protective as well as fade resistant, and employs a two-tier vented design that lets air flow freely through it, which keeps it from blowing over. And to keep things easy, you can control the entire thing with a simple hand crank.
Artful boho look • Ceramic, easy to care for • Good size
Might be too "loud" for some
The Bottom Line
This boho ceramic side table is a nice accent piece that'll elevate your space, and you wont have to stress about taking care of it.If you're looking to add a little bit of the "boho" aesthetic to your outdoor space, check out this cool little side table from Urban Outfitters.
The ceramic piece will add an artful touch to your layout and provides a nice place to rest a drink or whatever book you're currently reading. And because it's ceramic, it's easy to care for — rain shouldn't give it any visible problems, and you can simply wipe it clean when you want to touch it up.
It's as simple as that — stylish, strong, and here for all of your side table needs.
The ceramic piece will add an artful touch to your layout and provides a nice place to rest a drink or whatever book you're currently reading. And because it's ceramic, it's easy to care for — rain shouldn't give it any visible problems, and you can simply wipe it clean when you want to touch it up.
It's as simple as that — stylish, strong, and here for all of your side table needs.
Gorgeous glass-paned surface • Second tier for storage • Nice pop of color • Iron frame
Chairs sold separately
The Bottom Line
Dine in style with this color pop table — complete with two-tier storage and a tough iron frame.9. Rhys Outdoor Dining Table
If you want to add a pop of color to your outdoor space, this table should do the trick — plus, it comes with extra storage and a durable iron frame.You thought we'd forget about an outdoor dining set? Of course not.
This dining table is the pop of color your outdoor space deserves — not overwhelming, but just enough to draw your eye. In addition to that, the table has a beautiful glass-paned surface and metal frame that should face no issues from non-compliant weather. It has a second tier as well for storing plates, reading materials, board games, or whatever you please.
We really wish that the table included the accompanying chairs, but unfortunately it does not. That being said, they are well-worth the additional purchase if you want something that'll match (or you can get a contrasting color if you really want to get creative).
This dining table is the pop of color your outdoor space deserves — not overwhelming, but just enough to draw your eye. In addition to that, the table has a beautiful glass-paned surface and metal frame that should face no issues from non-compliant weather. It has a second tier as well for storing plates, reading materials, board games, or whatever you please.
We really wish that the table included the accompanying chairs, but unfortunately it does not. That being said, they are well-worth the additional purchase if you want something that'll match (or you can get a contrasting color if you really want to get creative).
Minimalistic and clean • Durable aluminum construction • Fans out into two elevated surfaces
Can be annoying to lift the pieces out if you're a person who has table knick-knacks
The Bottom Line
Minimalistic and multifunctional, this coffee table makes for a great centerpiece to your outdoor hideaway.10. Uma Outdoor Coffee Table
This coffee table is a great centerpiece for your outdoor hangs — in addition to being sturdy overall, it has the option to fan out into two elevated surfaces for working, snacking, and more.If you've got the space, why not add a coffee table to the mix?
This one is probably one of the most multifunctional coffee tables we've ever come across — it has the ability to fan out into two separate surfaces, elevating each to a more accessible height for working on a laptop or simply snacking.
Since it's made from aluminum, you'll get the durability you'd come to expect from other metal-framed outdoor furniture. Rest easy knowing it'll stand up to the elements, and wipe clean when you want to freshen it up. It's all tied together with the table's minimalistic look with a slatted surface.
(Just don't pinch your fingers in those hinges.)
This one is probably one of the most multifunctional coffee tables we've ever come across — it has the ability to fan out into two separate surfaces, elevating each to a more accessible height for working on a laptop or simply snacking.
Since it's made from aluminum, you'll get the durability you'd come to expect from other metal-framed outdoor furniture. Rest easy knowing it'll stand up to the elements, and wipe clean when you want to freshen it up. It's all tied together with the table's minimalistic look with a slatted surface.
(Just don't pinch your fingers in those hinges.)
Has water jets • Insulated cover • Deflatable for easy storage
Doesn't keep water hot in cold weather
The Bottom Line
This portable hot tub will work for outdoor spaces big and small, and while it doesn't come with *all* the bells and whistles, it features enough to make it a solid purchase.Mashable shopping reporter Miller Kern suggests the Intex PureSpa Portable Hot Tub as her favorite splurge purchase for outdoor spaces. Here's what she said:
"If you want to get really wild with your outdoor area, get this inflatable hot tub from Intex. It's got a 77-inch diameter, which might make it a snug fit in smaller spaces, but if you've got a little extra room and love a good soak, it's worth the squeeze.
The great thing about an inflatable hot tub is that it doesn't have to permanently take up space because you can deflate and store it when you want room for other stuff. You can only fit up to four people comfortably in this hot tub, but you probably weren't expecting to host a big crowd in your space anyway.
You won't get all the bells and whistles of a regular hot tub, but this inflatable tub does heat up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, has 140 water jets for some nice bubbles, and features a multi-colored LED light. It also comes with a cover for when it's not in use."
"If you want to get really wild with your outdoor area, get this inflatable hot tub from Intex. It's got a 77-inch diameter, which might make it a snug fit in smaller spaces, but if you've got a little extra room and love a good soak, it's worth the squeeze.
The great thing about an inflatable hot tub is that it doesn't have to permanently take up space because you can deflate and store it when you want room for other stuff. You can only fit up to four people comfortably in this hot tub, but you probably weren't expecting to host a big crowd in your space anyway.
You won't get all the bells and whistles of a regular hot tub, but this inflatable tub does heat up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, has 140 water jets for some nice bubbles, and features a multi-colored LED light. It also comes with a cover for when it's not in use."
Virtually weather-proof • Sturdy and well-balanced • Great statement piece for your patio • All-day comfort
Base is bulky, but necessary • Assembly may test your patience
The Bottom Line
A hanging egg chair is one of the coolest ways we can imagine relaxing on a nice day — this one is well-made, balanced, and a good way to top off your outdoor setup.12. Latigo Patio Hanging Egg Chair
This hanging egg chair is a conversation starter to say the least — it's well-balanced, weather-proof, and will probably be your new favorite place to cozy up with a good book.This last one is a total luxury item. But, why not, right?
Add this cozy hanging egg chair to your space and soar through the open air while you indulge in total rest and relaxation (OK, maybe a little hyperbolic there). It's made from all-weather wicker and a metal base that will both last you for quite some time. It fits nicely almost anywhere you put it, and works great with both small and sprawling spaces. Topped off with a comfortable cushion that you can spend the whole day in, this chair is more than worth the price of admission.
And don't worry about tipping over — that metal base should keep you in place, and the top is connected by a really strong carabiner rig.
One Target reviewer writes:
Add this cozy hanging egg chair to your space and soar through the open air while you indulge in total rest and relaxation (OK, maybe a little hyperbolic there). It's made from all-weather wicker and a metal base that will both last you for quite some time. It fits nicely almost anywhere you put it, and works great with both small and sprawling spaces. Topped off with a comfortable cushion that you can spend the whole day in, this chair is more than worth the price of admission.
And don't worry about tipping over — that metal base should keep you in place, and the top is connected by a really strong carabiner rig.
One Target reviewer writes:
I have always wanted an egg-shaped swing like this for my tea/coffee time with my book to cozy up and read. It is so sturdy and well made. It holds a good weight. It is a little bulky at the bottom, but it's needed for proper balancing. The cushion on it is weather-proof, so its great for your patio or, even to keep it indoors.
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