Buying Outdoor Furniture online can be exciting, but it’s also a big decision. With so many options and various factors to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. When setting up a patio, balcony, or garden, investing in the right furniture is essential for creating a cozy and stylish outdoor space.
Here are 11 useful tips to help you make a smart and informed choice when buying outdoor furniture online.
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Things to Keep in Mind Before Choosing Outdoor Furniture
1. Measure Your Space Carefully
Before you start shopping, ensure you measure the space where you want to place the furniture. Accurate measurements will help you avoid purchasing pieces that are either too large or too small for your patio, balcony, or garden.
Make sure to account for enough space to move around comfortably and for any other outdoor features, such as plants or walkways. This simple step will save you from the hassle of having to return items that don’t fit.
2. Understand Your Climate
Your location’s climate plays a significant role in determining what kind of outdoor furniture to buy. Hot, humid, or rainy environments require more durable, weather-resistant materials. For instance:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, perfect for rainy areas.
- Teak wood: Ideal for dry climates as it ages beautifully without cracking.
- Synthetic wicker: Works well in humid climates since it’s water-resistant.
By choosing the right materials based on your climate, you’ll ensure your furniture lasts longer.
3. Comfort Comes First
Outdoor furniture should be just as comfortable as indoor furniture. It’s essential to test the seating before committing to a purchase. Look for pieces with thick, supportive cushions and fabrics designed to resist fading and moisture.
Consider how you’ll be using the furniture: if you plan to entertain guests, a spacious seating arrangement might be ideal. If you’re relaxing alone or with a partner, consider cozy, intimate seating options.
4. Choose Quality Materials
Material choice is crucial for both durability and aesthetics. High-quality materials not only look great but also stand the test of time. Some popular options include:
- Teak wood: Timeless, elegant, and weather-resistant.
- Wrought iron: Strong, durable, and perfect for traditional or modern styles.
- Resin wicker: Low-maintenance and perfect for any weather conditions.
- Stainless steel: Resistant to corrosion, ideal for coastal areas.
“By considering both the durability and appearance of materials, you’ll be able to find the best furniture to suit your needs.”
5. Consider Easy Maintenance
Outdoor furniture is exposed to various weather conditions, so you’ll want something that’s easy to clean and maintain.
- Opt for furniture made of materials that don’t require regular upkeep, such as powder-coated metal or resin wicker.
- Wooden furniture may need periodic sealing or oiling to preserve its finish.
- Cushions should have removable covers that are machine washable for convenience.
6. Look for UV-Resistant Fabrics
Fabrics exposed to direct sunlight can quickly fade, affecting the look of your furniture. Look for cushions or covers made with UV-resistant fabrics.
These materials help preserve the colors and prevent sun damage. Additionally, fabrics like Sunbrella are known for their durability in outdoor settings, ensuring the longevity of your cushions and throws. This will help keep your furniture looking new for a longer period.
7. Customer Reviews Are Invaluable
Before making any purchase, always take time to read customer reviews. Previous buyers’ experiences provide insight into the comfort, quality, and durability of the furniture you’re interested in.
- Look for reviews on product pages or third-party websites to get a well-rounded view.
- Pay attention to any common complaints or issues, such as assembly difficulty or poor durability.
8. Plan for Storage
Outdoor Furniture can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to think about storage if you don’t plan to leave it out year-round. Many pieces now come with storage options, like waterproof cushions or furniture that can fold or stack when not in use.
This is particularly useful in regions where harsh weather occurs. You might also want to invest in covers to protect your furniture during the off-season. Proper storage helps extend the life of your outdoor furniture.
9. Match Your Style
Outdoor Furniture should complement your home’s overall style. Look for pieces that will blend seamlessly with your existing outdoor decor and color scheme.
- If your home has a Modern style, sleek and minimalist furniture designs might be best.
- For a more traditional or rustic vibe, look for wooden furniture with warm tones.
- Consider adding accessories like outdoor rugs or cushions that match your chosen theme.
10. Double-Check the Return Policy
Before completing your purchase, make sure to read the store’s return policy. Furniture can sometimes look different in person than it does online, and you may need to return or exchange pieces.
A clear, hassle-free return policy will make this process much easier if you aren’t fully satisfied with your furniture. Additionally, confirm if there are any shipping fees or conditions for returns to avoid unexpected costs.
11. Look for Deals and Discounts
Take advantage of special sales events, discounts, or promotional offers when buying outdoor furniture online. Many online stores offer seasonal sales, free shipping, or discounts for first-time buyers.
Signing up for newsletters or following stores on social media can also keep you informed about upcoming deals. By shopping smart, you can save a significant amount of money while still purchasing high-quality, stylish furniture for your outdoor space.
Conclusion
Investing in Outdoor Furniture is more than just choosing chairs and tables — it’s about creating a relaxing space that reflects your style and stands up to the elements. By keeping these 11 essential tips in mind, you can confidently choose pieces that offer comfort, durability, and beauty for years to come.
If you’re thinking about online shopping for outdoor furniture, Shopica is your go-to place. With a wide range of styles, quality materials, and customer-friendly service, Shopica makes it easy to turn your outdoor space into a personal retreat.
FAQ’s
1. How can I make sure the furniture will fit in my outdoor space?
Start by measuring the exact size of your outdoor area using a measuring tape. Write down the length, width, and available height. Also, think about how you plan to arrange the furniture and leave walking space around each item.
2. Is it safe to buy outdoor furniture online?
Yes, it’s safe when you shop on trusted websites with clear return policies and real customer reviews. Make sure the store has customer service contact options and positive reviews. Check if they provide clear photos, material details, and warranty information.
3. Do I need to bring the furniture indoors during winter?
Not always, but it’s a good idea to protect your furniture during harsh seasons. Use waterproof covers to shield it from snow and moisture. If possible, store cushions indoors. Materials like aluminum and synthetic wicker can usually stay outside with covers.
4. Are warranties offered on outdoor furniture?
Many reputable brands provide warranties on outdoor furniture, usually covering defects in materials and workmanship. The length of warranty varies, ranging from one year to ten years or more.
5. How do I make outdoor furniture more comfortable?
Start by choosing furniture with thick, soft cushions. Add throw pillows for extra back or side support. Place an outdoor rug to make the area feel cozy underfoot. Shade structures like umbrellas or canopies reduce heat.
Lois Lane is a professional blogger and a seasoned Content writer for wellhousekeeping.com. With a passion for simplifying complex Home Decor topics, he provides valuable insights to a diverse online audience. With four years of experience, Lois has polished his skills as a professional blogger.
