The Outdoor Collection

The best buy-it-for-life outdoor furniture is made from tough, weather-hardy materials like teak, powder-coated aluminium, or galvanised steel. These hold up brilliantly against rust, rot, and a good old British downpour. Teak, in particular, can last decades with minimal care, while aluminium is rust-proof and easy to move about. Look for solid joinery and at least a 10-year warranty. Bonus points for repairable parts and UK-made designs using sustainable materials. For more, browse our full outdoor living collection or read how we choose products on our research process page.

To clean wooden garden furniture, use warm soapy water and a soft brush - no need to go full jet-wash (that can damage the grain). Re-oiling once a year keeps hardwoods like teak and acacia looking their best and slows greying. That silvery patina is natural and doesn’t hurt the wood. For long-term care, cover your furniture with breathable waterproof covers or stash it under shelter over winter. More tips live over on our Product Care and Repair hub.

Yes, you can leave durable outdoor furniture outside year-round - just give it a little backup. Teak and galvanised steel can handle the rain, but they'll still benefit from covers or a cosy spot in winter. Moving parts and cushions are the most vulnerable, so a bit of protection goes a long way. Many pieces made from certified hardwood or powder-coated metal come with 5–25 year warranties, but regular TLC makes that lifespan go even further.

The best way to protect garden furniture from weather is to combine clever storage with seasonal care. Use breathable waterproof covers (not tarpaulins that trap moisture), stash cushions somewhere dry, and oil or seal wood furniture once a year. If you've got the room, storing it indoors over winter is ideal. A little bit of care between seasons keeps furniture cleaner, sturdier, and frankly, more welcoming come spring.

When it comes to long-lasting garden furniture, teak wins hands down. Teak is dense, naturally oily, and shrugs off water, rot, and pests - often lasting over 50 years. Acacia's no slouch, offering good bang for your buck with a 10–20 year lifespan if you treat it well. It’ll need regular oiling and protection from harsh weather. But for truly buy-it-for-life quality, teak is the hardier choice (with a rather regal track record in shipbuilding, no less).

Yes, you can absolutely repaint or restore aged metal garden furniture. Start by scrubbing off rust with a wire brush or sandpaper, then clean the surface. Use metal primer followed by exterior-grade rust-proof paint. If it’s powder-coated, a light sanding helps new paint stick. With a bit of effort and the right materials, you’ll stretch its lifespan and give it a proper second wind. For restoring wood, see our guide on care-repair-wooden-furniture.

The best way to store garden cushions during the winter is in a dry, ventilated indoor space - like your airing cupboard with aspirations. Use breathable storage bags or boxes to dodge trapped moisture and mildew. Never shove them in plastic bin bags. If the covers come off, give them a wash and make sure everything’s bone-dry first. Even water-resistant covers will last longer with proper off-season care. Explore low-fuss outdoor solutions in our outdoor utility collection.