The Ultimate Guide to Buying Garden Furniture 

Creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space starts with choosing the right garden furniture. Whether you have a small balcony, a cosy patio or a large family garden, the right furniture can transform your space into a stylish and comfortable retreat. 

But how do you know which pieces are right for you? This garden furniture buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing garden furniture!

What to consider when buying new garden furniture

Buying new outdoor furniture is exciting! But, rushing your decision could mean you end up with a set that doesn't suit your needs as well as it should. To avoid this, consider these important points before choosing your perfect set.

1. Assess Your Outdoor Space and Lifestyle Needs

Before choosing the best garden furniture for your garden, start by evaluating your outdoor space. It’s important to think about both the size of your garden and how you plan to use it as the furniture set you choose should feel proportionate and not overcrowd it. 

For smaller gardens, bistro garden sets or small corner sofas work great whereas larger gardens are perfect for large dining sets.

Check out our guide on maximising small gardens!

Next, think about how you use your garden. Do you love hosting? Or are you looking for a cosy egg chair where you can sit and soak up the sun? 

Functionality is also key when choosing garden furniture. Look for features that improve comfort and usability, such as:

• Cushioned seating with thick, weather-resistant padding for added comfort

• Adjustable or multi-position tables for flexible dining and relaxation use

• Multi-functional designs, such as garden sofas that convert into sun loungers or stools that provide extra seating or footrests

Choosing furniture that suits both your space and lifestyle will ensure your outdoor area feels practical, comfortable and enjoyable throughout the year.

2. Choosing the Best Garden Furniture Materials and Style

The look and durability of garden furniture are equally as important - you'll want a set that enhances the aesthetic of your garden while remaining in good condition for years to come. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from!

Popular garden furniture materials include rattan, aluminium, wood and rope weave, each offering different benefits depending on your needs and maintenance preferences. For example, rattan garden furniture sets are a popular choice for their stylish look and low maintenance, while aluminium garden furniture is lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly durable. Traditional wooden garden furniture, such as teak, offers a natural and timeless aesthetic but may require more regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. 

When choosing your furniture, it’s also important to consider your overall garden style. Modern outdoor spaces often suit sleek, minimalist designs such as aluminium or rope weave sets, while more traditional gardens pair well with wooden benches or classic rattan furniture.

At Almondsbury Garden Centre, we carefully select our garden furniture collections for their quality, durability, and design. Unlike many mass-market retailers, our ranges are chosen with long-term use and outdoor performance in mind, so you can invest in furniture that looks great and lasts.

How to maintain garden furniture 

Proper care and maintenance will help extend the life of your outdoor furniture and keep it looking its best year after year. Whether you’ve chosen rattan, aluminium or wooden garden furniture, a few simple steps can make a big difference in durability and appearance. 

Can garden furniture stay outside all year round? Yes! If you invest well and take good care of it!

High-quality materials are typically weather-resistant, but using furniture covers and storing cushions properly will help prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

How to protect garden furniture in winter

To keep your furniture looking newer for longer, follow these simple winter care tips:

• Use a waterproof garden furniture cover to protect against rain, frost and debris

• Store cushions indoors or in a weatherproof storage box to prevent damp and mould

• Keep furniture in a sheltered area where possible, such as against a wall or under a pergola

• Clean and dry your furniture before covering it to avoid trapping moisture

How to clean garden furniture

Regular cleaning helps maintain both the appearance and lifespan of your furniture.

• Rattan garden furniture: Wipe down with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush

• Aluminium furniture: Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt and prevent build-up

• Wooden garden furniture: Clean regularly and treat with oil or sealant to protect against weathering

Avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure washers, as these can damage the materials over time.

How often should you maintain garden furniture?

For best results, clean your garden furniture at the start and end of each season, with light maintenance throughout the summer as needed. Covers and proper storage will reduce how often deep cleaning is required.

Keeping your outdoor garden furniture well maintained will ensure it stays comfortable, stylish and ready to use whenever the sun comes out.

3. Set a Realistic Budget For Garden Furniture

Understandably, not everyone has thousands of pounds to spend and you can still find great furniture sets within your budget. However, what you do buy should be a good investment with quality, durability and style in mind. 

Even if you’re working with a smaller budget, there are still plenty of great options available. More affordable outdoor furniture sets can still offer comfort and style, particularly for smaller gardens or occasional use. Mid-range options often provide a better balance of durability and design, while premium garden furniture typically offers higher-quality materials, thicker cushions and longer warranties. 

Balancing quality and cost will ensure you get the best product for your money. Remember, investing well means you'll have a high-quality furniture set that lasts all summer. 

3. Browse Different Kinds of Garden Furniture 

How you use your garden will determine which kind of furniture set is right for you but you might find that you fall in love with a set that you’d never even considered previously. That’s why it’s always a good idea to visit a garden furniture showroom like Almondsbury!

Lounge Outdoor Furniture Sets

Here’s our Kettler Merano Corner Set!

If your priority is comfort and relaxation, lounge outdoor furniture is ideal for creating an outdoor living space.

These sets typically include outdoor corner sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables, making them perfect for turning your garden into a comfortable extension of your home.

Lounge sets are ideal for:

• Relaxing in the garden on warm days

• Casual socialising with family and friends

• Creating a stylish outdoor living room feel

When choosing a lounge set, look for weather-resistant cushions, durable frames, and low-maintenance materials to ensure long-lasting comfort throughout the seasons. 

Dining Furniture Sets

Check out the Olivia 6 seater dining set!

Love alfresco dining? Outdoor dining furniture sets allow you to make the most of your garden, whether you’re enjoying casual family meals or hosting summer BBQs. 

These sets range from compact four-seaters to large extendable tables, making them versatile for different occasions. When choosing a dining set, consider the number of guests you typically entertain and whether you need a foldable or stackable option for easy storage.

Bistro Outdoor Sets

Check out the Olivia Bistro Set!

For smaller outdoor spaces, a bistro garden furniture set is a practical and stylish solution.

These compact sets are perfect for balconies, courtyards and small patios where space is limited but you still want to enjoy the outdoors.

Bistro sets are ideal for:

• Morning coffee in the garden

• Small patios and balcony seating areas

• Creating a relaxed reading or breakfast nook

Egg Chairs and Sun Loungers

Why not try our Houston Rope Egg Chair?

For ultimate relaxation, egg chairs and sun loungers offer a comfortable, laid-back way to enjoy your garden.

Whether placed on a patio, decking area, or tucked into a quiet corner, these pieces create a luxurious, resort-style feel at home.

They are ideal for:

• Sunbathing and summer relaxation

• Reading and quiet time outdoors

• Creating a cosy feature corner in the garden

Wooden Benches and Picnic Benches

For a timeless and durable seating option, wooden furniture and picnic benches are excellent choices for any garden. Perfect for outdoor dining and socialising, picnic benches combine seating and table space in a single unit. A classic and versatile addition to any outdoor space, wooden furniture provides a sturdy and stylish seating option.

Garden furniture FAQs

What is the best garden furniture for UK weather?

The best garden furniture for UK weather is made from weather-resistant materials such as rattan, aluminium or treated hardwood. These materials are designed to withstand rain, temperature changes and UV exposure. For long-term durability, it’s also recommended to use protective covers and store cushions indoors when not in use.

Can garden furniture stay outside all year round?

Yes, most modern garden furniture sets can stay outside all year round, especially those made from rattan or aluminium. However, using a waterproof cover and storing cushions during wet or cold weather will help extend the lifespan of your furniture.

What is the most durable garden furniture material?

Aluminium is one of the most durable and low-maintenance materials, as it is rust-resistant and lightweight. Rattan is also a popular durable option, particularly synthetic rattan, while wooden furniture such as teak can last for many years if properly maintained.

What garden furniture is best for small gardens?

For smaller spaces, compact options such as bistro garden furniture sets, foldable tables, or small corner sofas work best. These styles are designed to maximise seating without overcrowding patios, balconies or courtyards.

Do I need a cover for my garden furniture?

While many outdoor furniture sets are weather-resistant, using a garden furniture cover is highly recommended. Covers help protect against rain, dirt, and UV damage, reducing wear and keeping your furniture looking newer for longer.

How do I clean garden furniture?

Cleaning methods depend on the material:

• Rattan: wipe with warm soapy water and a soft brush

• Aluminium: clean with mild soap and water

• Wood: clean regularly and treat with oil or sealant

Regular cleaning helps maintain both appearance and durability.

How long should garden furniture last?

High-quality garden furniture can last anywhere from 5 to 15+ years depending on the material and how well it is maintained. Investing in durable materials and protecting your furniture during winter will significantly extend its lifespan.

What size garden furniture should I choose?

The right size depends on your available space and how many people you want to seat. For example:

• 2–4 seater sets: ideal for small patios and balconies

• 4–6 seater sets: suitable for average family gardens

• 6–8+ seater sets: best for larger gardens and entertaining

Always allow enough space to move comfortably around your furniture.

Buying garden furniture can instantly make your garden a more functional space. Whether you choose a modern outdoor corner sofa or a more traditional weave set, investing well will make your garden the place to be all summer long!