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The 10 Best Patio Furniture Pieces Our Editors Recommend

The 10 Best Patio Furniture Pieces Our Editors Recommend

Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, so it’s understandable if you want to create your own personal oasis, whether you have a small balcony or a sprawling patio. Twinkling string lights and potted plants aside, however, you’ll also need durable, comfortable, and stylish outdoor furniture to finish off the space. 

“As with any project, we recommend that you primarily design for your lifestyle,” says Alexandra Davin, interior decorator at Davin Interiors. “Think about the space and how you’d truly like to use it. Do you want to nap on a comfy sofa with outdoor cushions? Or would you prefer a table and chairs so you can dine al fresco?” 

Because there are so many different patio furniture designs out there, it can be difficult to decide which options are durable, stylish, and worth the money. To help you find the right fit for your home, we tested some great patio dining sets, benches, and other seating right at home.




Credit: Walmart

After testing this outdoor accent chair, we found it to be of excellent value, especially for its comfort and durability. We found it to be particularly impressive because it withstood Hawaii wind, rain, sandy feet, food crumbs, and even dirty dog paws. Small stains rubbed off easily with a wet paper towel, but a soft cloth and mild soap is recommended, as the cushion covers are not removable.

The chair arrived as just one wide box. Inside was everything needed to assemble the item, which is great for those without a large amount of tools on hand. Assembly took approximately 45 minutes, including unboxing and breaking down boxes when finished.

We found the chair to be perfect for settling in to read a good book or enjoy an outdoor snack with our dog at our side. The chair felt sturdy and secure, despite the wicker feeling a bit plasticky. We found it to be overall well made, especially for the price point. 

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Steel, polyethylene wicker, and weather-resistant fiberfill | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds




Credit: Amazon

Setup for this Polywood chaise was straightforward, and the instructions included diagrams that were easy to understand. We found the chair lighter than expected, which allowed for easy movement around a patio or outdoor space. It also included a set of wheels to help with moving the chaise as needed.

We especially appreciated its comfort factor—we found it enjoyable in its upright, angled, and reclined positions. The upright position is great for reading while we found the reclined and flat positions better for lounging in the sun. The sling fabric felt comfortable against bare skin. 

Since it is made of polywood, the chaise is safe for wet climates as it can be scrubbed or power washed of any mildew or dirt. Compared to other options we tested, the chaise is pricey, but it comes with a 20-year warranty.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds




Credit: Grandin Road

The Grandin Road Amalfi Bench is a great choice for a front porch or if you need additional seating in your garden. It only took us about 30 minutes to assemble and since it’s not very heavy, we could easily move it around.

The bench is offered in five different colors, so you’ll be able to choose which one that suits your space. We placed it on our front entry patio and while we wouldn’t recommend lounging in it for a long time, it was a comfortable spot to sit. It felt sturdy overall, and we also liked the height of the back of the chair as it offered some additional back support. 

There is a cushion for this bench, but keep in mind that it’s sold separately. We purchased a white cushion, and it does show stains from dirt and debris. Since the cushion can only be spot cleaned, we’d recommend purchasing a different color. 

We tested this bench for an entire year and left it uncovered, exposing it to rain, wind, hail, and snow. The bench remained in great condition and we didn’t notice any warping, discoloration, or other damage. We recommend purchasing a seat cushion for added comfort, though we still thought this bench was a great purchase overall.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Wood | Weight Capacity: Not listed




Credit: Outer

Adirondack chairs work well both on back patios and front porches, and one of the best we’ve tested is the Outer Ascent Adirondack chair, which comes with a matching ottoman. We liked how heavy-duty this chair was, particularly how it was made with durable construction that felt sturdy and didn’t move in the wind.

The chair is spacious, and we found it comfortable for all sizes, both with and without the matching cushion. We didn’t experience any back or neck pain after sitting in the chair.

The only stain that happened in testing was when water dried on the chair, and it left some white residue that came up easily. Muddy paw prints on the ottoman also wiped away with a rag and no cleaning solution was needed.

Given how sturdy this Adirondack chair is, once it’s assembled, it is heavy at 61 pounds, and we found it difficult to move.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: 100% GRS-certified post-consumer recycled UPE | Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.




Credit: Walmart

If you’re looking for an egg chair to add to your backyard space, this wicker version received high marks in our tests for comfort and affordability. We found the chair to be durable, withstanding spring weather extremes (including rain, snow, cold, sun, and wind). Given it held up well to light moisture exposure, we think it’s ideal for a semi-exposed outdoor area like a balcony or covered patio. We did not notice any color fading from the sun in our tests.

Assembly took one hour and 20 minutes, but despite the time, we found the chair straightforward to put together, and a socket wrench is included.

The chair is large enough to lay back on or sit cross-legged, and we spent time both reading and working in it. The cushions it comes with are removable and we found them comfortable to sit on or lay against for long periods of time. We think the seat is wide enough to feasibly seat two people, but keep in mind that the weight capacity is 350 pounds.

We found the cushions easy to wipe clean, noting dirt didn’t stick to the fabric. If the cushion covers need more cleaning, they are removable and washable.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: Four | Material: Hand-woven, all-weather wicker (chair), polyester (cushions) | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds




Credit: Wayfair

This Lark Manor set is the best patio sectional we tested thanks its flexible design and durable construction. Overall, we like the sectional’s high-quality appearance and the fact that it looks expensive while at an affordable price. Also, despite no weather protection cover included, the sectional held up to winds over 50 mph and heavy rain in testing.

The sofa comes with two end pieces with one arm each, two armless middle seats, and a corner piece. We loved that this provides some flexibility when it comes to configuration: You can separate the sectional into a loveseat and chairs or remove a middle seat if you move to a new home with less patio space. However, the modular design does cause some issues as the pieces can come apart easily, even when they’re locked—you may want to add additional security like zip ties.

The cushion covers are water-resistant. Moisture beaded up and wiped off easily in our test, and even when wet after a storm, the cushions dried quickly. And even though our cream cushions showed dirt easily, it didn’t stain as we could sweep debris off with a damp towel. While the covers are removable,  we were surprised to find that there were no washing instructions for them, so we opted for spot cleaning.

We found the cushions firm, but they compressed easily, which may mean they’ll need to be replaced after a few years. We also recommend adding in a few outdoor throw pillows for extra back support.

The sectional comes with a coffee table which we found sturdy and at a good height, making the whole package a fair price, especially if you can grab it on sale.

One piece of our sectional arrived damaged, but Wayfair customer service was responsive and we liked that there were replacement parts available—it took about a week and a half to arrive, but it was undamaged and fit perfectly. 

Product Details: Number of Pieces: Six | Material: Wood (sectional and table), polyester and foam (cushions) | Weight Capacity: Not listed




Credit: Walmart

For families and those who like to entertain in the warmer months, this set from our Walmart line can comfortably accommodate four to five individuals at one time. Overall, we found the set to check many important boxes—it was sturdy, durable, comfortable, and affordable.

The poly wicker set includes two club chairs with two storage covers, one three-seater sofa, and one coffee table with a storage cover. Considering the price, we were impressed with its pleasing design. In testing, we found the cushions to be comfortable and we liked that they have removable, machine-washable covers. The cushions are also water-resistant, and the entire set withstood high winds, rain, and cold temperatures in our tests.

One thing to note: As a budget pick, the set does need to be assembled yourself, and the packaging was heavy and difficult to move inside. The boxes arrived visibly worn down from shipping, however, the product itself sustained no damage. Assembly of the entire set was straightforward thanks to clear instructions.  

Product Details: Number of Pieces: Seven (including covers) | Material: Steel and wicker | Weight Capacity: 900 lbs. (sofa), 300 lbs. (chairs)




Credit: Walmart

We chose this Better Homes & Gardens four-piece set as the best dining set because of its versatility and value. The set includes a large L-shaped sectional, a rectangular table with a cutout to fit a patio umbrella, and a bench that doubles as seating and storage. We think the set works great for both hosting and for families, as we were able to comfortably lounge, eat, and work at the table with a toddler. 

Using the bench for seating, the set can fit up to six people comfortably for dining. The bench and chair cushions remained supportive throughout our testing process. The entire set was durable, holding up to wind, rain, and sun. The set’s cushions are covered with a water-repellent fabric. While most water did run off in our tests, there were some droplets that remained that eventually sank into the cushion, so you’ll want to make sure to use the protective covers if rain is in the forecast.

One of the included covers is L-shaped to fit over the sectional, and the other covers the table and bench, though you’ll need to push the underneath the table. We found the covers easy to place over the furniture, and the bungee cords at the bottom cinched well for extra security; the covers stayed put despite experiencing some windy days.

The table has a woodgrain texture and look, but it is made of metal. While it didn’t get too warm to the touch, it’s worth considering putting it in the shade if you tend to have hot summers. The wicker is made of plastic, which made it lightweight and easy to move.

Keep in mind, you may want to set aside an afternoon to assemble the set, as it took us over two hours to complete—longer than any other set we tested.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: Four | Material: All-weather plastic wicker, steel frames, polyester cushions | Weight Capacity: 900 pounds (sofa), 600 pounds (bench)




Credit: Crate & Barrel

If you already own patio chairs and want to add a table to your setup, we recommend this Crate & Barrel table, which is ideally sized for two to four people. At less than 36 inches wide, it’s a great size for apartment balconies or smaller patios. The dark slated tabletop is a versatile look that can fit in both modern and traditional patio designs.

In addition to its rustproof aluminum build, the table is lightweight and is foldable for easy storage. A rubber backing protects the tabletop when it folds down, a thoughtful feature we appreciated. 

This table received high marks for withstanding wind, snow, and rain during its testing period. For cleaning, vacuuming or light brushing to remove debris is recommended. It is advised to cover or store the item indoors during the winter or extreme weather conditions.

Assembly was simple, taking us less than 10 minutes. Leveling feet are built in to help with uneven surfaces.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: Aluminum | Weight Capacity: Not listed




Credit: L.L.Bean

This all-weather dining table lived up to its name, holding up well to high winds, rain, snow, and sun exposure in our tests. The durable material repelled moisture, pooling on the surface, making it easy to wipe away when you’re ready to sit.

While the material held up well in our busy household with two children and two dogs, if you’re looking for a more natural wood look, this table may not be the best option as it has a more utilitarian, playground-like texture.

If you like to host large spring or summer gatherings, keep in mind that at 48 inches wide, this option is a bit smaller than other patio dining tables we’ve tested. However, one of our testers, who is 6 foot 5, had no complaints when it came to leg room.

The table has a very straightforward assembly that took us approximately 20 minutes. While the delivery process was smooth, the box it arrived in was awkward and bulky. Because of this, our tester recommended having two people move the box to where you prefer to set it up.

Product Details: Number of Pieces: One | Material: HDPE lumber | Weight Capacity: Not applicable

The Bottom Line

The best patio furniture for your outdoor space is based on a few aspects, such as the size of your outdoor space, how often you intend to use it, and how many people plan to use it. 

If you enjoy entertaining al fresco, we recommend the Better Homes & Gardens Brookbury 4 Piece Wicker Outdoor Patio Sectional Dining Set, as it comes with two protective covers for the sectional and table and bench, to allow for dining outdoors for many years to come. 

For an apartment balcony or smaller outdoor space, the Better Homes & Gardens Bellamy Round Wicker Outdoor Egg Chair will make for a cozy and fashionable addition. For a long day, the Polywood Coastal Chaise with Wheels is a great option for putting your feet up and reading a good book.

Our Testing Process

To find the best patio furniture, we put 29 products to the test in our homes, including dining sets, zero-gravity chairs, egg chairs, accent chairs, chaises, tables, sectionals and conversation sets, and benches.

Once we received the pieces, we took into consideration ease of delivery, including the quality of packaging, and how easy it was to unbox and assemble the sets. As we used the furniture, we napped, dined, drank, and entertained with each piece to determine how comfortable they were to use. We also noted warping, chipping, abrasions, and other flaws throughout the testing period. 

We also took into consideration how the pieces fared during any inclement weather we experienced, as well as how easy they were to maintain over time. We continue to test the furniture pieces as the seasons change, and will update this article with our long-term findings.

Credit:

Better Homes & Gardens


What to Know About Outdoor Patio Furniture Before Shopping

Material

Since this furniture will be outdoors, the material is perhaps the most important detail to consider. Aluminum is a popular choice as it’s lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain. If you prefer the look of wood, consider teak styles as they’re durable and will naturally patina over time as opposed to decaying.

“Another beautiful choice is wrought iron. It’s heavier than aluminum, so there’s little chance of it being blown over,” Davin says. “Wrought iron furniture will often come with a higher price tag, but the quality should last for years.”

Davin only recommends traditional wicker and rattan outdoor furniture if your patio space is covered. “The natural materials give your outdoor space a beautiful, organic feel, but they can’t handle prolonged exposure to extreme sunlight or rain,” she adds. 

However, there are synthetic options, like the Better Homes & Gardens Brookbury 4 Piece Wicker Outdoor Patio Sectional Dining Set, which provide a woven look and withstand the elements.

Weight Capacity

An item’s weight capacity refers to the recommended amount of weight the item can handle. The weight capacity ranges and can depend on what the item is as well as its size and material. Both seating and tables tend to have a capacity upwards of 200 pounds, but you’ll want to confirm to ensure you’re purchasing a durable item.

Though weight capacity is important to consider for every furniture purchase, pay extra attention to the capacity for swings and other hanging seating since those will be attached to frames, roofs, or ceilings.

Included Pieces

Whether you’re using your outdoor furniture for entertaining guests or just as a family gathering spot, you’ll want to choose designs that work for your lifestyle. A dining set can include anywhere from two to 10 chairs while sectionals range in the amount of seating they offer. Pay attention to whether a dining table includes chairs or if a seating option includes cushions. If they don’t, those will be additional costs you’ll have to take on, whereas some other furniture options may include them.

Other Patio Furniture We Tested

Outer Wicker Outdoor Loveseat

The Outer Wicker Outdoor loveseat is pricier than most, but we found it to be very durable. It also earned high marks for cushions that still looked brand new after a month of use, even after being left out in the rain. We also appreciated the professional, white-glove delivery service.

Article Daphne 80.5-inch Outdoor Sofa

We found this Article Daphne 80.5-inch Outdoor Sofa in Dravite Ivory to have comfortable, deep cushions that were ideal for lounging. It also earned high marks for withstanding rain and wind well, and the white-glove delivery (at an additional cost) included assembly and placement. While we did find this sofa to be expensive, the quality reflects the price.

Martha Stewart by Polywood Chinoiserie 60-inch Garden Bench

We liked that this Martha Stewart by Polywood garden bench is resistant to wear and tear and weather elements (it can be left uncovered outdoors). It can comfortably support two adults or three children, and in our testing, it remained stable  under weight and movement. There is an optional cushion to purchase separately, but at $850, we found it to be overpriced, considering its simplicity.

Neighbor Terra Chair

The Neighbor Terra Chair has a sturdy yet lightweight aluminum frame and the oversized design provides extra comfort, especially for tall individuals. In testing, we found assembly to be easy with the included tools. We also love that the chair’s non-slip feet keep it in place without scuffing surfaces. Unfortunately, due to its lower back design, the chair lacks neck support. It’s also the priciest individual chair we tested at nearly $1,500 at the time of publishing.

Credit:

Better Homes & Gardens


Your Questions, Answered

How do you style outdoor furniture?

Like any room in your home, styling your outdoor space comes down to your personal aesthetic. However, if you’re not sure where to start, Davin suggests considering your surroundings and going from there.

“Remember that this space is subject to Mother Nature, so design your outdoor area with that in mind,” she says. “Think about lighting—dining on the patio is amazing, but you are suddenly eating in the dark when you lose the sunlight. Perhaps you add string lights to your design for both functionality and character or incorporate a seating area staged around a propane fireplace to cozy up to after the sun goes down. The same goes for harsh sunlight during the day. Consider adding a pergola or shade structure to your outdoor design for aesthetic purposes and relief from the afternoon heat.”

How should I store outdoor furniture?

If you live in an area where you can’t sit outdoors all year round, you’ll want to ensure that your furniture is properly protected until you can use it again. If you have foldable tables and stackable chairs, you can store them in a garage or shed without taking up too much space. If you’re handling larger pieces, like long dining tables and sectionals, there are weather-proof outdoor furniture covers that’ll wrap around the pieces and protect them from the elements.

Who We Are

Jamie Weissman is a BHG senior editor with over eight years of experience in the home and design industry. To make this list, she considered each pick’s material, weight capacity, and number of included pieces and examined testing insights from BHG’s research team, who evaluated 29 pieces of outdoor furniture based on setup, design, durability, and quality. She also consulted Alexandra Davin, co-founder of Davin Interiors.

Kate Oczypok is a contributor at Better Homes & Gardens, specializing in home and lifestyle product shopping, with expertise in linens, kitchen appliances, and outdoor appliances.

What is BHG Recommends?

Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.

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