Whether you're lounging on your roof terrace or reading a book under the shade of a tree, spending time in the garden is an excellent way to recharge your batteries. But the UK's temperamental weather can make sitting outside uncomfortable for a prolonged period of time, so it's important to choose garden furniture that's comfortable, stylish and folds away easily.
Comfort
When it comes to sun loungers, comfort is important. They need to be able to hold your weight and withstand the elements, and they should also look good when you’re sitting in them.
Many wooden options are made from a hardwearing material that can handle the outdoors, such as teak or rattan. However, they tend to be on the pricier side, so be sure to shop around to find one that suits your budget and garden style.
Similarly, lower-budget models are often made from something called textoline, which is a waterproof and breathable mesh fabric that’s easy to clean and wipe down when it gets dirty.
There are also a few foldable options that don’t take up a huge amount of space when they’re not in use. Some come with wheels, too, which make them a breeze to manoeuvre. These are great for a portable option when you want to head out of the house or to a camping spot, too.
Durability
Wooden sun loungers tend to be a classic option that will stand the test of time. However, wooden garden furniture does require some maintenance to keep it in tip-top condition. For example, you may need to top up with a wood preservative every now and again.
Alternatively, rattan sun loungers can also be a good choice if you're looking for low-maintenance, hardwearing outdoor seating. Synthetic rattan is a good choice for this, as it's more durable than natural rattan and won't be damaged by the weather.
If you're on a budget, you can find a great deal of value-for-money options at high street stores and online. Buying second hand is another option, where you can often pick up bargains for next to nothing.
The metal frame used on a wooden sun lounger will affect its longevity. Aluminium is generally the most durable, but steel is less likely to last as long and needs more care to avoid rusting.
Styles
When it comes to the style of sun loungers, there are plenty to choose from. Some have wheels so you can move them around with ease and others are stackable to save space on the patio or poolside when they’re not in use.
Some have hinges made up of aluminium, steel, and other metals with contemporary styles that look good outdoors. Some even fold up – so you can take them with you to the beach or park, or pack them away neatly in a shed or garage.
Rattan is a popular choice for outdoor furniture because it's durable and weather resistant. It's also available in a range of different colours to suit your garden décor.
Storage
When choosing a sun lounger it's worth considering storage options. Some are stackable for easy space-saving if you're storing them away in a garage or shed. Others are designed to dismantle into parts for neat packing away.
Rattan garden furniture is a classic choice, and they are also very durable. However, they do need to be cleaned and stored properly in order to avoid rusting.
A rust-resistant aluminium frame is generally the best option to consider if you're going to be leaving your sun lounger outdoors for long periods of time, especially in a coastal setting where the corrosive salty air can quickly damage its bare metal.
PE-rattan is another low-maintenance alternative to a wooden sun lounger, although you will need to take care to brush down the woven polyethylene surfaces regularly or use a soapy solution to clean it up. This will also save you a little money in the long run, as a wooden lounger will need a lot of upkeep to keep it in good condition