The Ultimate Guide to Garden Sofas
Whether we’re catching up with friends and family, binging Netflix, or snuggling up for a nap, our sofas are some of our favourite places to relax and be ourselves.
And why limit that to your living room? Adding a garden sofa to your outdoor space allows you to extend your living area outside and move the good times al fresco!
Not sure where to start? Here’s how to choose the best garden sofa for you, including what you need to consider and FAQs.
Considerations
Budget
First and foremost, decide how much to spend on your garden sofa – you don’t want to fall in love with something and then have a nasty surprise at the price tag! Keep in mind that cheaper options may be lower quality and need to be replaced sooner. For an excellent balance of affordability, quality and style, check out our Cuckooland garden furniture.
Size
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a garden sofa is size. There’s no point spending hours choosing the perfect sofa, only to realise it won’t fit in your space! Measure the area first, and remember that you might want to leave room around the sofa for access, other furniture or lighting. You also don’t want your space to look too cluttered.
Weight
Along with the size of your garden furniture, you should also consider the weight. If you want to leave your sofa outside year-round, you might want a heavier wood or metal set to withstand strong winds. Alternatively, if you’re going to move your sofa around your garden (for example, to follow the sun!) then a lighter rattan or plastic set might be preferable.
Style
– Classic
When it comes to style, you could decide on a classic 2-seater or 3-seater sofa for your garden. This is an excellent option for couples or smaller spaces and can allow room to add accessories and décor.
– Daybed
If you want more flexibility in your sofa, a multi-functional daybed is a great choice. This style of garden sofa often comes with movable footstools that can be positioned separately as extra seats or next to the sofa to create a daybed that’s perfect for lounging!
– L-Shaped
If you have more space, you might prefer an L-shaped sofa. This style of garden sofa gives you the option to accommodate more guests – and to put your feet up when they leave! Check out our Oxford Corner Sofa for a stylish yet affordable option.
– Sofa Set
Lastly, if you enjoy entertaining, a garden sofa set might be your best option. Outdoor sofa sets usually consist of a sofa, one or more armchairs or footstools, and a table. This offers you greater flexibility in how you use your sofa – whether dining, relaxing or partying!
Material
– Rattan
As well as style, you also need to choose a material for your garden sofa. Rattan is one of the most popular options. Traditionally, this would have been natural rattan, but these days, you’re more likely to come across synthetic PE (polyethylene) rattan. PE rattan is affordable, durable and low-maintenance but still offers a stylish, natural look. This is also one of the most hardwearing options for a garden sofa.
– Wood
Wood is another classic choice for a garden sofa and will bring a traditional aesthetic to your garden. Wooden garden furniture can be strong and sturdy but might be more expensive. Bear in mind that most wooden garden sofas will require regular oiling or weatherproofing treatment to keep looking their best.
– Metal
Metal garden sofas are hardwearing and offer a modern, industrial look, especially if painted in bright colours. They are generally made from aluminium or steel, with aluminium often preferable as it’s lighter and rust-resistant. On the downside, metal garden furniture can get hot in the sun, so watch the backs of your legs!
– Upholstered
Upholstered garden sofas usually consist of foam cushions with weatherproof covers. In the case of our Maze Rattan Eve Sofa Set, these are based around a powder-coated aluminium frame. This look and level of comfort is perhaps most similar to an indoor sofa and is perfect if you want to achieve a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
FAQs
How do I clean my garden sofa?
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your garden sofa. PE rattan garden sofas are very low maintenance and can generally be brushed clean or wiped down with warm soapy water if necessary. Avoid using harsh cleaning products that contain bleach, as this may damage your sofa.
Can I leave my garden sofa outside in winter?
If you can bring your garden sofa inside over winter, this will help keep it in the best possible condition. However, most outdoor furniture is designed to be weatherproof and can be left outside with a waterproof cover (with the exception of some materials, such as steel, which is prone to rust in wet weather). You should bring all cushions inside to prevent mildew.
Do I need a cover for my garden sofa?
Covering your garden sofa when it’s not in use is recommended to keep it looking its best. This will help to prevent weather damage, mildew and bleaching in the sun. Many of our garden sofa sets include a free winter cover, such as the Maze Rattan Pulse Rectangular Dining Set.
Do I need to maintain my garden sofa?
PE rattan and aluminium garden sofas generally require very little maintenance, especially if covered during winter. Over time, they may be subject to general wear and tear and corrosion, and you may need to repair patches in your rattan furniture with extra PE strips. Wooden sofas usually require an annual oiling to protect them from the elements.
