Garden Furniture

Which garden furniture set is right for you?

Rattan corner sofa sets

A rattan corner sofa set is the most sociable choice for a large patio. The corner sets in this collection come with a riser table and two stools, so the table can be raised for eating or lowered for drinks, and the stools add extra seats when friends come round. Measure carefully: the corner sofas are 277cm along their longest side.

Garden lounge sets and sofas

Lounge sets pair a garden sofa or armchairs with a coffee table for relaxing rather than dining. A three-seater garden sofa or a pair of armchairs with a footstool suits a smaller terrace.

Garden dining sets

For eating outside, choose a garden dining table and add chairs to suit. Carver chairs with arms make good head-of-table seats, and armless chairs fit more people along the sides. A round bistro table for two works on a balcony or in a sunny corner.

Sun loungers

Sun loungers are for poolsides, lawns and sunny decks. The lounger set in this collection includes two loungers with cushions and an acacia side table for drinks and books.

Rattan-effect vs plastic garden furniture

• Rattan-effect furniture uses a synthetic HDPE weave, not natural rattan, so it does not absorb water the way natural cane does. On aluminium frames it is light enough to move around the garden.
• The maker describes the rattan-effect Capri, Amalfi and Provence ranges as weatherproof, with cushions that dry quickly after a shower.
• Moulded plastic chairs and tables are lightweight, easy to wipe clean and come in soft French grey, putty and stone colours that suit planting and paving.
• Black metal bistro and lounge sets have a slimmer outline that suits courtyards and balconies.

Measuring your outdoor space

Mark out the size of the set on the patio with chalk or string before you buy. Leave around 60cm to 90cm around a dining table so chairs can be pulled out, and space to walk past a sofa set without stepping on planting. On a balcony, check the weight limit and keep a clear route to the door.

Caring for garden furniture through the year

Brush off leaves and wipe frames and weaves with warm, soapy water a few times a season. Bring cushions indoors when they are not in use and over winter, and store them somewhere dry. Covering your furniture or moving it into a shed or garage over winter will help it last longer, even when the frame and weave are made for outdoor use.

Garden furniture: your questions answered

Can rattan garden furniture be left outside all year?

Synthetic HDPE rattan on an aluminium frame is made for outdoor use, and the maker describes our rattan-effect sets as weatherproof. Even so, bring the cushions indoors when not in use and cover the furniture or store it under cover over winter to help it last longer.

Is rattan garden furniture waterproof?

The synthetic HDPE weave does not soak up water like natural rattan, so rain runs off and the frame dries quickly. Cushions are a different matter: the Olefin cushion fabric dries quickly after a shower, but cushions should not be left out in prolonged rain.

How do you clean rattan garden furniture?

Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush, then wipe the weave with a cloth or sponge and warm, soapy water. Rinse with clean water and let it dry fully in the sun before covering it. Avoid pressure washers and harsh chemicals, which can damage the weave.

Should I cover my garden furniture in winter?

Yes, it is worth it. A breathable cover, or storing the furniture in a shed or garage, protects it from frost, leaves and bird droppings, and keeps it ready for spring. Store cushions indoors somewhere dry.

What size garden table do I need for six people?

A rectangular garden table of around 150cm to 200cm long usually seats six. Allow about 60cm of table length per person and leave at least 60cm to 90cm around the table so chairs can be pulled out comfortably.

Bring the outdoors in with our artificial flowers and plants, or browse planters and pots and candle holders and lanterns.