Garden furniture refers to outdoor furnishings such as benches and tables. If you have them installed in your garden or on a rooftop, you might worry during bad weather, wondering, "Is it okay to leave them out in the rain?"
We will introduce the reasons why it is okay to leave garden furniture exposed to the rain, how to choose a garden table you won't regret buying, and some recommended garden tables that can handle being left out in the rain.
Please use this as a reference when choosing your garden table.
Create a Special Space with Garden Furniture
Garden furniture is a general term for furniture used outdoors. Simply placing garden furniture in your yard can enhance the scenery. It instantly creates a stylish, café-terrace atmosphere, allowing you to easily enjoy a special space at home.
Additionally, placing a garden table and chairs creates a resting space, allowing you to take frequent breaks if you get tired while gardening.
You can also use the space to enjoy meals, afternoon tea, or reading in your garden. This ability to create a special space at home is a major appeal of garden furniture.
Is it okay to leave garden furniture out in the rain?
Garden furniture is made of durable materials, so it is okay to leave it exposed to the rain. Generally, there is no problem with leaving it out. However, it will be constantly exposed to rain and sunlight outdoors.
No matter how resistant it is to rain and sun, if you leave it out indefinitely without any care, it will accelerate deterioration.
To continue using your favorite garden furniture for a long time, regular maintenance is essential regardless of the material.
Waterproof materials are recommended for garden furniture
If you are going to purchase garden furniture, the following waterproof materials are recommended:
- Polypropylene
- Aluminum
- Teak
Polypropylene is a type of plastic. It is reasonably priced, lightweight, and has excellent water resistance. However, leaving it out on days with strong sunlight can cause it to degrade and crack. Therefore, you need to take measures such as moving it to a shaded area or covering it on very sunny days.
Among various metals, aluminum is highly resistant to rust and is a material suitable for outdoor use. It is also very light, making it easy to set up and put away.
Teak is one of the most water-resistant woods. It is rich in natural oils, making it sturdy and highly rot-resistant. It is a characteristic of teak to change color to a silvery-gray over about six months to a year. This is only a surface change and not decay, so there is no change in the strength or durability of the teak.
However, if you want to keep your furniture looking beautiful for a long time, periodic maintenance with teak oil for furniture is recommended. This prevents your cherished furniture from deteriorating due to dryness and makes scratches and sun damage less noticeable.
Deterioration-resistant garden table sets
Polypropylene garden table sets are a classic, popular choice. Made of water-repellent material, they are resistant to deterioration and can be used for a long time. Because they are light and easy to carry, moving them around is simple. They are also more affordable than other materials, making them recommended for beginners in garden furniture.
Rain-resistant foldable garden table sets
Aluminum folding garden table sets are characterized by their resistance to rain. Being light and sturdy, they are easy to move or rearrange in the garden. They are ideal for use in small gardens or narrow balconies, as they are space-efficient. They can be folded and stored compactly when not in use, allowing you to make effective use of limited space.
Also, folding and storing them when not in use helps prevent fading and deterioration, keeping them in good condition for longer.
Waterproofing measures to protect garden furniture from rain
If you install garden furniture at home, many people want to use it for a long time without it deteriorating.
- Protective covers
- Waterproof sprays
We will now introduce the items mentioned above that are recommended for such people.
Protective covers
By placing a protective cover over your garden furniture, you can protect it from rain and dirt. Protective covers come in various sizes and shapes, so make sure to choose one that fits your garden furniture.
Some protective covers also feature UV protection. These are highly recommended as they prevent the deterioration and discoloration of your furniture.
Waterproof sprays
By applying a waterproof spray to fabric, you can enhance its water resistance. Spraying the surface of your garden furniture can prevent water and dirt from soaking in.
Some sprays include UV protection, which can protect against deterioration and discoloration. However, please be aware that inhaling the ingredients in waterproof sprays carries a risk of health issues like pneumonia. When using these sprays, be mindful of sudden gusts of wind or changes in wind direction.
Make sure to dry thoroughly if it gets wet
While garden furniture is often made of highly durable materials, you should ensure it is dried thoroughly if it gets wet. Leaving it in the shade while damp or dirty can lead to mold growth.
If your garden furniture gets wet, we recommend wiping off the droplets with a towel. If you are concerned about dirt, wipe it down with a diluted neutral detergent.
How to choose a garden table you won't regret
Among all garden furniture, the garden table is the most important item. Many people want to make a choice they won't regret. To make a satisfactory purchase, please check the following selection criteria:
- Check for durability
- Consider the intended use
Check for durability
A key point in choosing a garden table without regret is to check its durability. If you leave a garden table out in your yard or on your balcony, it will be constantly exposed to rain, wind, and sunlight.
When purchasing a garden table, it is important to confirm not just the material, but also the finishing treatments applied to it.
Consider the intended use
Considering your intended use is another way to choose a garden table without regret. If your goal is to enjoy meals in the garden, you will need a table with sufficient surface area.
Conversely, if you are using it for a small number of people or simply as a place to set things down, a large size is not necessary. The size of the garden table you need will vary based on how you plan to use it.
Recommended garden tables that are okay to leave in the rain
When purchasing a garden table, which significantly changes the atmosphere of your yard or balcony, many people want to choose one that can be used for a long time without needing much maintenance.
Below are some recommended garden tables.
- [NU PLACE] TS32 Dining Table
- [IKEA] DUVSKÄR
- [Nitori] Garden Table (NAR-T07 WH)
We hope you find your favorite one.
[NU PLACE] TS32 Dining Table
The TS32 Dining Table from NU PLACE is a dining table with a ceramic tabletop. Ceramic furniture is resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, allowing you to use it for many years.
The TS32 Dining Table combines elegance and style, and features rounded corners for added safety.
It seats four people comfortably, making it perfect for wonderful moments with family and friends. You can also customize the colors of the tabletop and legs to suit your space.
[IKEA] DUVSKÄR
The DUVSKÄR from IKEA is a wooden garden table made of eucalyptus slats. Its natural grain and changing tones create a warm, natural atmosphere.
The material is eucalyptus, a highly durable hardwood suitable for outdoor use. It is a dense wood rich in natural oils, making it resistant to rain, wind, and dryness, and less prone to mold.
*Reference [IKEA] DUVSKÄR
[Nitori] Garden Table (NAR-T07 WH)
The Nitori Garden Table (NAR-T07 WH) is a clean-looking, outdoor-ready square table. It uses highly durable materials like polypropylene and aluminum. This table has an elegant, warm, and soft impression, making it a perfect match for wooden or tiled decks.
Because it uses water-resistant polypropylene, it can be wiped down or washed with water if it gets dirty. It is recommended for cafés, beer gardens, or resorts. It is available in white and dark beige.
*Reference [Nitori] Garden Table (NAR-T07 WH)
Summary | Depending on the material, garden furniture is okay in the rain
Depending on the material, garden furniture is fine to leave exposed to the rain. In particular, polypropylene, aluminum, and teak are materials with high water resistance.
When choosing garden furniture, you can minimize regret by checking its durability in advance and considering your intended use. Check the materials and features of the furniture to find the perfect piece for your home.