5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Garden Furniture

Your garden deserves more than a few mismatched chairs. The right garden furniture set can turn it into a spring/summer hub for all things social, but only if you avoid the common slip-ups. Here are five mistakes to dodge when shopping for garden furniture.

1. Ignoring the size of your space

One of the biggest errors when purchasing garden furniture is rushing into it without measuring your space. That oversized garden sofa might look perfect in a showroom or online, but will it overwhelm your patio? Similarly, a small garden chair or bistro table can feel lost if your garden is on the larger side.

Take accurate measurements of the space you wish to furnish and map out where you’d like your garden sofa, dining table, or outdoor furniture to sit.

Tip: Sketch out a floor plan to help you visualise the setup before you buy.

2. Choosing style over durability

It’s tempting to be swayed by designs that catch your eye, but garden furniture has to withstand the elements. Sun, rain, frost, and even wind can wear down certain materials faster than you think and without the proper care. Metal garden furniture is a strong choice for longevity, whilst wood garden furniture brings natural beauty and resilience (teak and acacia are firm choices for sturdy garden furniture.)

For something versatile and low maintenance, rattan garden furniture is a classic pick. Prioritise sturdiness and weather resistance. Style should complement practicality, not compromise it.

3. Forgetting about comfort

Your garden should be the ultimate place to relax, but that won't happen if you’ve chosen stiff chairs or garden benches with no back support for long afternoons of spritz in the sun. Looks can be deceiving, and furniture that looks beautiful might not be comfortable for sun-soaked afternoons that turn into balmy evenings in the garden. If possible, try before you buy or read reviews from reputable sources like Which? and Trustpilot.

Don’t forget cushions for extra comfort, and make sure they’re suitable for outdoor use. Evening chill setting in? Grab yourself a throw to stay warm. Whether you’re buying a garden chair, a cosy outdoor sofa set, or a larger garden dining set, you deserve to be comfortable.

4. Not considering storage solutions

Even the most robust garden furniture benefits from protection in the off-season. Without storage, cushions can grow mould and frame can degrade over time.

Think ahead: do you have space in a shed or garage? If not, consider space-saving options like foldable garden chairs or invest in waterproof covers. Planning how to store your garden furniture now will extend the life of your garden furniture set and save you money in the long run.

5. Overlooking maintenance needs

Different materials require different levels of care. Hardwood may need oiling roughly once a year to keep the colour rich, whilst some metals can require protection from oxidisation that eventually leads to rust.

Synthetic rattan is usually low-maintenance, but cheaper versions can fade in the sun. Be honest with yourself about how much upkeep you’re willing to commit to.

If you’d prefer a more low-maintenance routine with your garden furniture, choose weatherproof garden furniture that’s designed to be durable with minimal effort.

Great garden furniture balances style, comfort and durability, turning your outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Choose wisely, whether it’s a sofa for garden lounging or a full garden furniture set, and you’ll enjoy sunny days in style for years to come.