10 Outdoor Furniture Ideas That Are a Complete Waste of Money

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Outdoor furniture is eye catching, especially on Instagram or in the catalog, but not every piece is worth that splurge. There are some designs which, although well intended, are so impractical or poorly made as to create more headaches than happiness. Whatever the cause, reaching the wrong furniture choice can quickly turn your dream yard into a money pit.

Investing in outdoor furniture is no small thing; you want to know smart from hype. Unfortunately, some things that look amazing online or in the store break down a lot faster than a snowman in the month of July. To steer clear of a few of the overhyped and overpriced options, let’s break down a few options.

Glass-Top Patio Tables

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Glass top tables are a good way of infusing a modern look into your outdoor space, but they’re anything but practical. Glass is more likely to crack under pressure or break apart from a storm when debris flies. But on top of that they’re smudge magnets, watermarks magnets and dust magnets, making them a full-time upkeep effort. If you want something lower maintenance and stylish, opt for teak, or metal.

Inflatable Furniture

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Choosing an inflatable sofa or chair might seem like a cheap idea, but there are multiple reasons why these are not as good options as you might think. They deflate quickly without fancy equipment, leaving you with lumpy, sagging seating, and a small puncture can waste them. If you want it to remain comfortable and fun, rely on sturdy furniture that will be able to withstand the elements and abuse. .

Metal Furniture Without Rust Protection

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Despite their appearance of sleek and sturdy metal pieces, when exposed to the outdoor atmosphere, metal pieces are sure to age poorly with no rust treatment. And only rain, dew, or a sprinkler exposure can cause the frames to look unsightly and weaken them. Select powder coated or stainless steel finishes that will last.

Hammocks Without Weatherproofing

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The hammock should be like bliss, it’s where you can retire, not here where you’ll sit in a soaking wet mess after the rain. Both cotton or un-treated fabric hammocks tend to absorb water over time, thus mildew and rot occur. Instead, get hammocks made from materials that dry quickly like polyester or that are weather resistant.

Oversized Sectionals

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While oversized sectionals look inviting, they can dominate your outdoor space and leave little room for other activities. Not to mention, they’re often difficult to move and expensive to maintain. Neighbour Outdoor Furniture found that smaller, modular seating options are more practical for most backyards, as they offer flexibility and easier storage.

Plastic Adirondack Chairs

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Adirondack chairs are a classic outdoor staple, but the plastic versions are often lightweight and prone to cracking. They may be cheap upfront, but they rarely last more than a season or two under the strain of UV exposure and fluctuating temperatures. Wooden or composite materials are far better options if you want longevity.

Built-In Fire Pit Seating

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The idea of a cozy built-in seating area around a fire pit may seem charming, but it’s not always functional. Built-in seats can limit your options for rearranging furniture or hosting larger gatherings. Additionally, they often lack the cushioning or ergonomics needed for long-term comfort. Portable seating around a fire pit is a more versatile and cost-effective solution.

Outdoor Rugs Without UV Protection

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Outdoor rugs can pull a patio together, but many budget options fade or disintegrate quickly when exposed to sunlight. Rugs without UV protection lose their vibrancy and can become brittle, leaving you with an eyesore instead of a stylish centerpiece. Investing in a UV-treated rug will save you money and frustration in the long run.

Cheap Umbrella Stands

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An umbrella stand may not seem like a major purchase, but a flimsy one can spell disaster. Lightweight bases often tip over in strong winds, risking damage to the umbrella and nearby furniture. Heavier, more stable stands made of concrete or cast iron are worth the extra cost to keep your setup secure.

DIY Pallet Furniture

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DIY pallet furniture might seem like a creative and budget-friendly option, but it’s rarely built to last. Most pallets aren’t treated for outdoor use, making them susceptible to rot, splinters, and even pests. .

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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