Maintaining outdoor furniture can often feel like a daunting task, but choosing the right types can make all the difference. For homeowners and garden enthusiasts alike, selecting outdoor furniture that requires minimal upkeep ensures more time enjoying your space and less time on maintenance. In this post, we’ll explore seven types of outdoor furniture that are not only stylish but also easy to maintain, helping you keep your outdoor area looking pristine with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and find the perfect low-maintenance pieces for your garden or patio.
#1 - Outdoor Dining Sets
Outdoor dining sets are easy to maintain primarily because they are crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials. Aluminium dining sets, for example, resist rust and corrosion, requiring just a quick wipe with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh. Synthetic resin wicker sets are another low-maintenance option, as they are resistant to fading, moisture, and mildew; simply hose them down or clean with soapy water as needed. Teak wood dining sets naturally resist water and decay, and with an occasional application of teak oil, they maintain their rich colour and smooth texture. These materials are specifically chosen for their ability to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep, making outdoor dining sets a practical and stylish choice for any garden or patio.
#2 - Adirondack Chairs
Adirondack chairs are a popular choice for outdoor seating because they are designed for both comfort and ease of maintenance. When made from Polywood, a high-density polyethylene material, these chairs are virtually maintenance-free. They are resistant to moisture, UV rays, and insects, meaning they won’t crack, fade, or rot over time. A simple wash with soap and water is all that’s needed to keep them clean. Wooden Adirondack chairs, often crafted from cedar or teak, are also easy to maintain. Cedar naturally resists decay and insects, while teak can be left to weather to a beautiful silvery grey or treated annually with teak oil to preserve its warm, golden colour. Both materials require only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris, making Adirondack chairs a hassle-free addition to any outdoor space.
#3 - Pergolas
Box Garden Pergola - 1.8m Width - £664.99
Pergolas are an elegant addition to any garden or patio, providing shade and structure with minimal maintenance. When made from materials like vinyl or aluminium, pergolas are especially easy to care for. Vinyl pergolas are resistant to rot, mould, and pests, requiring just a periodic rinse with a hose or a wipe-down with a mild detergent to keep them looking pristine. Aluminium pergolas are equally low-maintenance, as they are resistant to rust and corrosion, even in harsh weather conditions. A simple wash with soap and water will remove any dirt or debris, keeping the structure looking sleek and modern. If you're looking to take a deeper dive into modern pergolas, check out our aluminium pergolas collection.
For those who prefer a more natural look, wooden pergolas made from cedar or pressure-treated pine are also relatively easy to maintain. Cedar naturally repels insects and resists decay, while pressure-treated pine is treated to withstand the elements. Both types of wood benefit from an annual application of a sealant or wood preservative to protect against moisture and UV damage. Regular inspections and cleaning will keep the wood in good condition, ensuring that your pergola remains a stunning focal point in your outdoor space for years to come.
#4 - Outdoor Sofas
Capri Collection Outdoor Three Seater Sofa - £1,699.95
Outdoor sofas are a perfect blend of comfort and durability, designed to withstand the elements while requiring minimal upkeep. Sofas with frames made from aluminium or synthetic resin wicker are particularly easy to maintain, as these materials are resistant to rust, fading, and moisture. Simply wiping down the frames with a damp cloth or using a mild soap solution will keep them clean and looking new. The synthetic wicker is crafted to endure sun exposure and varying weather conditions without deteriorating, making it an excellent choice for outdoor living spaces. Sofas in our garden furniture collection are a prime examples of outdoor furniture types that require minimal maintenance.
The cushions on outdoor sofas are usually made from weather-resistant fabrics like olefin, which repels water, and resists UV rays. These cushions are often removable, allowing for easy cleaning—most can be spot-cleaned with soap and water or even machine-washed if needed. Regular fluffing and storing the cushions in a dry place during heavy rain or snow will extend their life and maintain their comfort. With these low-maintenance materials and simple care routines, outdoor sofas provide a comfortable and stylish seating option that requires little effort to keep in top condition.
#5 - Chaise Lounges
Chaise lounges are an ideal choice for outdoor relaxation, offering both style and ease of maintenance. When crafted from materials like aluminium or plastic, these lounges are particularly low-maintenance and durable. Aluminium chaise lounges are resistant to rust and corrosion, even in humid or rainy conditions, making them perfect for poolside or garden use. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or a rinse with a garden hose is usually all it takes to keep them clean. Plastic lounges, often made from high-quality polypropylene, are similarly easy to care for, as they resist fading, cracking, and moisture damage, requiring just occasional cleaning with soap and water.
For added comfort, many chaise lounges come with weather-resistant cushions made from fabrics like olefin or polyester. These cushions are designed to resist mould, mildew, and UV damage, and they are often removable for easy cleaning. Spot-cleaning with mild soap and water will handle most stains, while the cushions can be stored indoors during off-seasons to prolong their lifespan. With their durable materials and simple maintenance routines, chaise lounges offer a hassle-free way to enjoy luxurious outdoor lounging.
#6 - Outdoor Benches
Outdoor benches are a versatile and low-maintenance seating option that can enhance any garden or patio. When made from materials like teak, metal, or recycled plastic, these benches are built to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep. Teak wood benches, known for their natural resistance to water, insects, and decay, require very little maintenance. They can be left to age naturally to a silver-grey patina or treated annually with teak oil to retain their warm, golden hue. A simple wash with soapy water will keep them clean and free of dirt or debris.
Metal benches, particularly those made from aluminium or stainless steel, are equally easy to maintain. These materials are resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring the bench remains in good condition even when exposed to rain or humidity. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a rinse with a hose will keep metal benches looking their best. Recycled plastic benches are another excellent option, as they are highly durable, resistant to fading, and impervious to moisture and insects. These benches can be cleaned effortlessly with soap and water, making them an eco-friendly and low-maintenance choice for any outdoor setting. With their robust materials and easy-care requirements, outdoor benches offer a reliable and attractive seating solution that stands the test of time.
#7 - Outdoor Umbrellas / Parasols
InstaShade Eclipse Cantilever Parasol - £2299.00
Parasols are an essential outdoor accessory that offers shade and style while being remarkably easy to maintain. Modern parasols are typically made from weather-resistant fabrics like polyester, acrylic, or olefin, which are designed to withstand sun exposure, moisture, and mildew. These fabrics are also treated to be UV-resistant, ensuring that the colours stay vibrant even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. To maintain a parasol, a simple routine of brushing off loose dirt and spot-cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. For a more thorough clean, the fabric can be removed and washed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The frames of parasols, often made from materials like aluminium, steel, or treated wood, are built to endure outdoor conditions with minimal care. Aluminium and steel frames are rust-resistant and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or hosed down to remove dirt or grime. Wooden frames, typically crafted from hardwoods like teak or eucalyptus, are naturally durable and can be maintained with periodic cleaning and a yearly application of wood preservative to protect against moisture and UV damage. To extend the life of a parasol, it’s recommended to close and store it during harsh weather conditions or when not in use for extended periods. With these simple maintenance steps, parasols can provide long-lasting shade and elegance to any outdoor space.