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The Article Calicut Loveseat Set includes one loveseat and two lounge chairs that come almost fully assembled; all you have to do is plop the pillows on the frame. It has a powder-coated aluminum frame for complete rust protection, and the padded upholstery feels firm and supportive. We left it outside in all kinds of weather conditions, including rainstorms and a heat wave, and it still looked brand new six months later—even after being jumped on by kids and pets.
While this set is probably not the comfiest for full-on lounging (we suggest a daybed or chaise for that), the chairs are still soft enough for relaxing with a good book. The construction is durable and requires little to no maintenance too.
We were impressed by how easy it was to remove bird poop and other stains—we wiped it all without a trace. The brand recommends washing the upholstery by hand or using a gentle detergent or bleach to treat stains. If you want more protection, you can buy a cover to protect it when not in use.
While this patio set is an investment built to last, we wish there were an included coffee table or more color options. Still, if you want a quality set that’s easy to set up and looks great, you’ll love this pick.
Materials: Aluminum, polyester | Size: 36 by 67 by 33.5 in. (loveseat); 36 by 33 by 33.5 in. (lounge chair)
Real Simple / Donna Freydkin
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The Devoko Wicker Patio Set proves you don’t have to sacrifice quality for price. After six months of use, the chairs still look good as new. We gave it a perfect score for comfort during testing—it’s a cozy place to sip on a tropical cocktail, read a good book, or have a late-night conversation. That said, we would have loved it if it included a footrest.
Its elegant vibe can suit just about any outdoor space, including patios and pool decks. Each piece of furniture is made of a low-maintenance synthetic wicker that’s rugged enough to be outside year round. However, the cushions were too light and would be blown away if it were windy. They also didn’t dry well after it rained, making them more prone to mildew. We ended up throwing them out, and the set actually looked just as good without them.
While this collection comes in pieces, assembly was straightforward and took less than an hour to complete. While this isn’t a set you would get if you’re looking for something to sprawl out on, it’s still a great option if you want comfortable, upright seating for a large deck or front porch.
Material: PE rattan | Size: 21.5 by 19.5 by 33.5 in. (armchair); 15.75 by 15.75 by 17.75 in. (table)
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The Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set is perfect for cozying up with a good book.
PHOTO: Real Simple / Dena Ogden
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The glass tabletop has a sleek, elegant vibe.
PHOTO: Real Simple / Dena Ogden
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Make the most of warm weather with this casual dining set from Yardbird. The dark brown five-piece collection features four lattice-back chairs and a round, sturdy table that’s perfect for enjoying meals outside. Plus, it’s durable—after six months of testing, including direct sunlight exposure, the quality hasn’t changed at all.
At 53 inches, this is one of the smaller sets on our list, but there was still plenty of room for each person to pull out their chairs and sit comfortably. The cushions are made with waterproof Sunbrella performance fabric, but the cushion covers aren’t removable, so we suggest spot cleaning instead of throwing them in the wash.
We liked that the chairs and table were heavy enough to not get toppled over by the wind but lightweight enough that we could move them around our deck. Despite the set’s color, it didn’t retain as much heat as we thought it would (we will continue to test it over the summer to see if that remains true).
While it costs over $2,500, its frame is made from premium aluminum materials that have a 10-year warranty, so we’re confident it will last a long time. That said, we did bring the cushions in when not in use to ensure their longevity. As far as cleaning, we simply sprayed the table with a garden hose, so it’s also been relatively easy to maintain.
Material: Aluminum | Size: 53 by 53 by 29 in. (table), 24.5 by 26.5 by 36.5 in. (chairs)
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Perfect for small patios or a cozy meal, the Grand Patio Bistro Set is made from rust-resistant steel and features a simple yet chic design. After six months of use, the set is still absolutely stunning. The paint is intact, and it hasn’t displayed any signs of rust, discoloration, or chipping. So far, it’s experienced intense rain, pollen, and heat, and it never gets too hot to sit on—even in Texas.
This set comes already assembled and ready to use right out of the box. The chairs and table are foldable and can be easily stored away in the winter. The chairs may look lightweight, but they have a 330-pound weight capacity and were able to withstand strong winds when we left them outside. We thought they were comfortable too, though some may not feel the same since there are no cushions included (you can always buy your own).
Overall, we like how low maintenance this is—we’ve only wiped it down a few times within the testing period—and how it provides ample seating without taking up too much space. There are seven colors to choose from including blue, sage, and red. For its reasonable price, it offers plenty of value and is a great option to complete your patio decor.
Material: Steel | Size: 23.5 by 27.75 in. (table); 18.5 by 16.5 by 32.25 in. (chairs)
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Kicking your feet up at the end of the day is our idea of comfort, which is why we recommend this loveseat from Better Homes & Gardens (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). It’s one of the few chairs on our list with an ottoman, so you can relax and lounge in the sunshine. After six months, we’re already excited to use it this spring.
We found this chair to be sturdy and heavy enough that it won’t blow off your deck in a windstorm. It seats two people comfortably and has a weight capacity of 450 pounds, while the ottoman supports 225 pounds. The cushions are waterproof and stain resistant, so you can wipe away dirt spots and bird poop easily. We never bothered to cover it, which might have been a mistake since the cushion covers got pretty dirty during testing. Aside from that, the base and frame still look brand new.
Although we were able to remove mulberry stains off the couch with just a bit of soap and water, other stains needed a deeper clean. When we tried machine washing the cushion covers, we weren’t able to remove all the dirt and had to spot clean it again. You also may need to check couch crevices to remove twigs and branches, as we found that some debris became stuck there.
We do wish the cushions were firmer and that the upholstery came in other, easier-to-maintain colors because the white cushions were a pain to keep clean. Otherwise, this loveseat is great value for the price.
Materials: Steel, wicker | Size: 29.1 by 50.9 by 28.7 in. (loveseat); 42.9 by 19.4 by 11.2 in. (ottoman)
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We’ve had the Grandin Road Amalfi Bench for 11 months, and despite enduring rain, wind, hail, and snow, it’s still in great condition. When you need a leisurely moment, this is the bench we recommend. We found it to be sturdy and secure, with no extra jiggling or movement when we sat. That said, it isn’t the most comfortable option for extended sitting, though you can purchase matching cushions and a side table for added comfort and convenience. We also like that it’s large enough to fit two adults.
While the bench held up beautifully during testing, we could see how the cushions could get dirty, but it was nothing that we weren’t able to clean. Since it’s made from wood, we suggest you apply a finish annually to preserve it.
Material: Eucalyptus wood | Size: 35.5 by 48 by 25.5 in.
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The Polywood Adirondack Chair is our all-time favorite Adirondack chair. Over six months of testing, it did not crack, fade, or warp in any way—common issues with wooden outdoor furniture. We also kept it outside during winter in snow, sleet, and in freezing temperatures that got down to -30°F, and aside from it getting a little dusty, it still looked brand new. Plus, the chair doesn’t absorb moisture, so we could sit on it after a drizzle without our clothes getting wet.
It has a traditional design with a modern twist and is made from recycled plastic, which is long lasting, stain resistant, and fade resistant. We loved the spacious seat and super-wide arms, making it ideal for relaxing on your patio. The setup instructions were somewhat unclear, so we used a video on the brand’s website to assemble the chair. After some trial and error, we were good to go.
The good news is that it’s available in 13 colors and has a modern look, so you can find an option to suit any outdoor space. It would have been nice if the chair were foldable, so you could keep it in storage without taking up a lot of space. And while the back reclines slightly, you can’t adjust the chair beyond that, so this may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.
Materials: High-density polyethylene | Size: 32 by 29 by 34 in.
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The Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair is moisture resistant and easy to wipe down.
PHOTO: Real Simple
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The wide armrests and high backrest make it perfect for lounging or reading a book.
PHOTO: Real Simple
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An outdoor rug can make your patio more comfortable, which is why we like the Unique Loom Indoor & Outdoor Rug. We put it on our front porch, and it instantly made our space feel more cozy and inviting. There are at least 20 options available in assorted square, rectangle, and octagon shapes. Plus, it comes in six colors to suit your existing decor.
This rug is easy to fold and carry around, which is handy for when you need to clean or store it in winter. It’s also non-slip and will not move around when you step on it. You have to give it some time to lay flat on the ground, though we noticed that after a month it still wasn’t completely flat on our floor. The rug also wasn’t as soft as we would have liked, but since it is designed for outdoor use, this is to be expected..
After four months, we thought it held up remarkably well with little wear and tear and no staining. After that, our dog went on a rug rampage and destroyed it, so we ended up throwing it out. Had that not happened, it probably would have lasted much longer. Nevertheless, for the time we had it, it withstood a lot of scrubbing without damage or fraying fibers, so we think it’s a highly durable option.
Materials: Polypropylene | Size: 32 sizes ranging from 2 by 3 ft. to 13 by 13 ft.
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For both shade and style, opt for the Safavieh Athens Inside Out Outdoor Umbrella. With a 9-foot canopy, it provides ample shade for your table and up to six chairs—perfect for dinner parties, happy hours, and card games. The hand crank makes it easy to open and close, and the fade-resistant fabric still looks brand new after six months of sun exposure. Even in windy conditions, it worked well; once we closed it during a windstorm, and it stayed upright.
Not only was this patio umbrella useful during the summer, but we also found countless uses for it throughout the fall. For example, it stopped trees from dropping their seeds into our food on the table. While the product claims to have an auto-tilt mechanism, it didn’t work effectively during our testing, but this wasn’t a dealbreaker.
The umbrella performed well on our rain tests, since the polyester fabric is water repellent and did not leak through at all. It was impressively easy to clean during our stain tests too—we just sprayed a solution on bird poop that washed away without scrubbing. It needs an umbrella stand for it to work properly, but before you buy, look for one that’s sturdy enough to handle its weight.
Materials: Aluminum, polyester | Size: 9 ft.
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Article Calicut Loveseat Set because it adds elegance to any porch or patio and comes almost fully assembled. For a cheaper option, we recommend the Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set, which is easy to assemble and made from durable synthetic wicker that’s built to last.
Real Simple / Dena Ogden
Our Testing Process
To find the best patio furniture, we tested a variety of dining sets and seating options at home. First, we assembled the furniture, timing how long it took and how easy it was to unbox and set up. We also took note of whether additional delivery coordination was needed.
After the patio furniture was set up, we used it over the testing period by sitting, lying, dining and/or drinking, and hosting on it. Not only did we evaluate its comfort, but we also considered its material, color, water-wicking capabilities, cushions, and framing. We looked for any abrasion, wear, warping, rust, corrosion, or chipping and noted whether the sun caused any fading or discoloration.
As patio furniture was further exposed to the elements, we assessed its weather resistance to rain, hail, and even snow. We also looked for any stains on the patio furniture, and if we found any, we attempted to remove them.
If the furniture had cushions, we looked at the manufacturer’s recommendations to see if they could be washed. We also noted whether the cushions stayed firm or changed shape over time, and if they were able to be attached to the furniture (otherwise they may have shifted around). Finally, we considered the framing and how sturdy it felt, plus if it could be moved or shifted by high winds.
To account for durability, we continued testing the furniture sets over six months to see how well they held up over time.
Real Simple / Rachel Marek
How to Shop for Patio Furniture Like a Pro
Type
From dining sets that can seat a crowd to outdoor sofas and lounge chairs—there is no shortage of patio furniture that can jazz up any outdoor space and turn it into a cozy oasis. Here are the main types of furniture you’ll find:
Umbrella: Umbrellas aren’t just for the beach—a patio umbrella offers shade and UV protection for your outdoor seating area.
Sofas and Chairs: If you want a comfortable place to lounge, opt for an outdoor sofa, comfortable lawn chair, or patio daybed. The cushions and frames are often made with weather- and fade-resistant materials, so they won’t get damaged by rain, sun, or snow. You can find sofas and chairs in wood, metal, and recycled plastic. For extra protection, buy a furniture cover separately.
Lounge Chairs: Lounge chairs are a cheaper alternative and provide ample comfort and space for relaxing. Because they are more lightweight and portable, they are an excellent choice for RV trips, camping, and picnics.
Patio Dining Sets: If you want to dine al fresco, you need a patio dining set to host your next soiree. They consist of chairs and a table and seat anywhere from two to eight people. For a smaller dining space, choose a bistro dining set instead—the chair and table are big enough for only two.
Rugs: Use outdoor rugs to spruce up your porch and deck and add a layer of comfort. While they are made from durable materials built to withstand outdoor conditions, they are not as plush as indoor rugs.
Material
Outdoor furniture comes in many materials, and you should base the type you choose on how you plan to utilize the space. You can find outdoor furniture made from metal, polyethylene (recycled plastic), and synthetic or polyethylene (PE) wicker.
While metal furniture is the most common, Schleis says it comes with its own nuances. “Steel metal furniture is affordable, and is also heavy, which can be great for windy areas,” she says. “This type of metal furniture is traditionally powder-coated with protective paint but will eventually rust over time. Aluminum metal is naturally rust-free but is a softer metal and lighter in weight.”
Polyethylene (PE) wicker is synthetic and won’t peel or chip like original cane wicker. We loved the Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set for its durability and reasonable price. There is also high-density polyethylene or plastic lumber, a type of recycled plastic that is low maintenance and has an impressive lifespan of up to 20 years.
When it comes to outdoor fabric, Schleis says the most durable outdoor fabrics are constructed of either acrylic or olefin yarns. If you want the highest quality, she suggests looking for both acrylic and olefin yarns that are made in the USA.
Size
When searching for the right outdoor furniture for your space, you should first measure the size of your patio. With small patios, in particular, you’ll want to choose furniture that is appropriately sized and won’t overcrowd the area.
The size of the patio furniture you choose should also depend on the shape and design of your space. For square or rectangular spaces with limited room, Putrimas says the key is finding appropriate multi-functional seating options that provide comfort and privacy without cluttering the narrow space or blocking the view.
“For a sprawling patio that reaches across the expanse of your home, you can create an aesthetically pleasing and multi-functional design by dividing your space into two different seating areas,” Putrimas says. She adds that a simple L-shaped sectional is perfect for entertaining guests while also creating a more intimate, private setting for reading a book.
Real Simple / Henry Wortock
Questions You Might Ask
What is the best time of year to buy patio furniture?
We recommend buying furniture early in the year (before the warm weather kicks in) to make the most of the season. Shleis says manufacturers and retailers typically start to see peak sales in March, so if there is something you have your eye on, you should take advantage of availability before then.
How long does patio furniture typically last?
This depends entirely on your furniture’s quality, materials, and the outdoor conditions in your area. We recommend purchasing covers to protect your patio furniture from the elements or bringing it inside during the winter if you have space. Regular cleaning is also important—just follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
How much should you spend on outdoor furniture?
Prices can vary depending on the brand, the type of furniture, and the materials it’s constructed from. On average, you should expect to pay at least $100 for a portable chair or a budget chair and table set. More expensive furniture can easily cost around $2,000 and up.
Before deciding whether it’s worth buying, we suggest looking at the materials used and if there are any manufacturer warranties. Furniture that’s made from premium materials such as mahogany, teak, and recycled plastics can last for years, so you shouldn’t have to worry about replacing them often.
Real Simple / John Somerall
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Nor’adila Hepburn, a contributing writer for Real Simple, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Real Simple. To find the best patio furniture, we tested models at home and evaluated them based on type, material, and size. For expert shopping advice, we spoke with Lindsay Schleis, outdoor landscape expert and vice president of business development at Polywood, and Emma Putrimas, owner of Couverture Covers.
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