Garden furniture is specifically designed for outdoor use, but those considering a purchase often wonder if it can be left outside all the time, and whether there are specific materials that are suitable or unsuitable for doing so.
In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of materials for garden furniture that can be left outside, maintenance methods, and points to consider when choosing your furniture. Please use this as a reference.
What is Garden Furniture?
Garden furniture is a general term for furniture used outdoors. It is designed to transform outdoor spaces like gardens and balconies into relaxing areas, much like a living room, and incorporates the European culture of enjoying the outdoors with ease.
Since Japan also has a culture of sitting on an engawa (veranda) to cool off in the evening, more people are looking to incorporate these practices into modern life and turn their gardens or terraces into stylish and comfortable spaces.
*Reference: Introducing stylish garden furniture recommended by garden designers. Some can even be left outside!
What are the Recommended Materials that Can be Left Outside?
As these items are furniture for outdoor use, they are generally made from materials with excellent durability and water resistance. However, since storing them every time can be a hassle, whether they can be left out permanently is a common question before purchase. Here, we have selected four recommended materials that can be left outside and will explain each in detail.
Plastic
Plastic garden furniture has excellent water resistance and can be used safely even on rainy days. It is also lightweight, making it easy to move and recommended for those who want to enjoy outdoor life with minimal fuss.
Furthermore, many products are reasonably priced, making them suitable for those buying garden furniture for the first time. However, because plastic is sensitive to UV rays and high temperatures, leaving it outside under direct sunlight for long periods may cause deterioration or cracking. Therefore, when using it, it is recommended to place it in the shade or use a protective cover.
Synthetic Rattan
Synthetic rattan is a highly popular material for garden furniture due to its aesthetic appeal. It also has excellent water resistance and can withstand being left out in the rain. Additionally, it is resistant to UV rays, which means it is less prone to fading even when used under direct sunlight.
Furthermore, it has excellent heat and cold resistance, capable of withstanding temperature fluctuations from -70°C to 130°C. Therefore, it is a material that can be used with relative peace of mind in any climate condition.
Aluminum
Aluminum garden furniture is characterized by being rust-resistant and unlikely to deteriorate even when wet from rain, making it an ideal material for outdoor use. Aluminum is durable enough to be used for window sashes and is extremely lightweight, making it easy to set up and move.
However, it may develop white rust if left unattended for a long time, so regular care is recommended. With good water and cold resistance, it is a highly reliable material that can be used outdoors for a long time with proper maintenance.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel garden furniture is highly durable and resistant to rust, making it a material that can be safely left outside. Its resistance to deterioration even in environments with a lot of rain and humidity is a major advantage, and with its simple and stylish design, it fits naturally into various gardens and balconies.
Also, stainless steel is resistant to stains, easy to maintain, and simple to keep clean. It is recommended for those looking for garden furniture that combines durability with design.
Maintenance Methods for Materials That Can be Left Outside
We have introduced four materials that can be left outside. While these materials have excellent durability and weather resistance, daily care and periodic maintenance are necessary. Let's look at the detailed maintenance methods for these four materials.
Maintenance for Plastic
Because plastic garden furniture is highly water-resistant, daily care is very simple as it can be washed thoroughly with water. If you are concerned about dirt, you can keep it clean by simply spraying it with a hose and wiping off any wet areas with a towel.
Additionally, wiping it down lightly with a neutral detergent periodically will help keep it in pristine condition for longer. To prevent deterioration caused by UV rays during strong summer sunlight, you can use a parasol or move the furniture to the shade.
Maintenance for Synthetic Rattan
Synthetic rattan garden furniture is highly water-resistant and easy to maintain, but periodic cleaning is necessary because dust tends to collect in the weaves. If it is left outside and gets dusty or dirty, you can keep it clean by simply washing it down with a hose or a bucket of water.
Synthetic rattan has a smooth surface that prevents water from pooling, and it dries quickly, making maintenance very easy. If there is stubborn dirt, wiping it off lightly with a neutral detergent will keep it looking clean. It is an easy-to-handle material that you can use for a long time with simple daily care.
Maintenance for Aluminum
Aluminum garden furniture can be maintained daily just by wiping away dust and dirt with a dry cloth, making it a recommended material for those who don't have much time for maintenance. If the dirt is heavy, use a neutral detergent to thoroughly remove it, then rinse off the detergent with water.
Although aluminum is rust-resistant, white rust may appear if left unattended for a long time. In that case, it is effective to lightly scrub it with citric acid or use a commercially available rust remover.
Maintenance for Stainless Steel
Stainless steel garden furniture is highly durable and rust-resistant, so maintenance is not very difficult. Daily care can be easily done with a dry or damp cloth.
If the dirt is heavy, it is effective to remove it using a neutral detergent and then rinse it thoroughly with water. Additionally, to maintain the luster unique to stainless steel, you may want to use a dedicated polishing agent periodically.
Points to Consider When Choosing Garden Furniture
While materials are certainly important, there are several points to consider when choosing garden furniture. Here are three key points we have selected to look at.
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Sunlight and environment
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Garden aesthetics
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Intended use
Sunlight and Environment
When choosing garden furniture, it is important to consider the sunlight and environment of the installation location. For example, if there is no shade and the furniture will be constantly under direct sunlight, choosing UV-resistant materials will prevent fading and deterioration.
Also, in areas with strong winds, such as near the sea or on a mountain, materials with some weight are more suitable. Thus, choosing according to your location and regional conditions is key to selecting garden furniture you will love for a long time.
Garden Aesthetics
Since there are many designs of garden furniture available, it is important to choose furniture that matches the overall image of your garden. A modern garden suits simple designs, while a natural garden suits wood or rattan materials.
Also, coordinating the colors with the plants in your garden and the color of your exterior walls will create a better overall balance. A single piece of furniture can significantly change the impression of a garden, so choose a design that matches your style.
Intended Use
The point to keep in mind when choosing garden furniture is to select items that fit the purpose of the space where you intend to place them. If relaxation is the priority, a comfortable sofa or chair is a good choice.
On the other hand, if you enjoy dining or barbecues, a larger table or dining set made of materials that are easy to wipe clean is more convenient. By choosing garden furniture that fits your lifestyle, you will be able to spend time more comfortably.
We Recommend "NU PLACE" for Purchasing Garden Furniture
Many readers of this article are likely considering the actual purchase of garden furniture. If you are wondering where to buy your garden furniture, we recommend "NU PLACE".
Below, we will introduce the features of NU PLACE and three items of garden furniture that you can actually purchase there.
Features of NU PLACE
NU PLACE is a brand that offers garden furniture that combines highly durable, carefully selected materials with attractive designs frequently adopted by hotels and commercial facilities.
The materials used include rust-resistant aluminum and fabrics that withstand rain and UV rays, making them perfect for long-term outdoor use. This reduces the need for maintenance while creating a stylish space.
They are also very particular about design, ensuring products match every space from simple modern to resort styles. Furthermore, all furniture comes with a 3-year warranty against damage from normal use, which is a major feature that allows you to use your furniture with peace of mind for a long time.
*Reference: NU PLACE
Okay to Leave Outside! 3 Recommended Pieces of Garden Furniture
We will introduce recommended garden furniture you can buy at "NU PLACE" that is safe to leave outside. We have also included links to the product pages, so please check the details if you are interested in any of these items.
Sofa: URSA 2P Sofa
The "URSA 2P Sofa" is a sofa characterized by a simple and modern design. By using an aluminum frame combined with wood-grain armrests and rope weaving, it adds a handcrafted feel.
Its compact size and clean silhouette make it look stylish in any space, whether on a patio, terrace, or hotel lobby, without feeling oppressive even when arranged in multiples. The high durability that allows it to be left outside is another appealing point.
*Reference: URSA 2P Sofa
Table: MX Side Table 500
The "MX Side Table 500" is an aluminum round side table with a simple yet unique design. Its structure, which combines a thin tabletop with a thick support, gives a modern impression.
By adding a splash of color, it becomes an accent for your space, and when paired with a simple sofa, it creates an even more stylish atmosphere. It is lightweight, easy to handle, and has the high durability required to be left outside.
*Reference: MX Side Table 500
Chair: POLO Director Chair
The "POLO Director Chair" is a foldable chair from the POLO collection, so named because they were favored by film directors. The crossed legs of the aluminum frame serve as a design accent, adding a sense of rhythm to a simple space.
Since it can be folded, storage is easy. This makes it a convenient and stylish chair that is useful not only in the garden but also for outdoor activities.
*Reference: POLO Director Chair
Summary | Have a Wonderful Time in Your Garden with Recommended Garden Furniture
In this article, we explained in detail the materials for garden furniture that can be left outside, maintenance methods, and points to consider when making a purchase.
By thinking about materials that can be safely left outside, designs that match your space, and the scenes in which you will use the furniture, you will be able to enjoy your chosen pieces for a long time. Use the information in this article and the recommended garden furniture as a reference, purchase your favorite items, and have a wonderful time in your garden.