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 teak outdoor dining table with six wicker chairs and an outdoor umbrella.

Smarter Outdoor Furniture Buying Starts Here

Whether you’re working with a compact balcony, sprawling patio, or something in between, this guide will help you create a setup that works hard, looks good, and makes every second outside count.

Your outdoor gameplan: How do you like to lounge outdoors?

Outdoor furniture isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s lifestyle-first. It all comes down to how you plan to live out there. Here's how to pick patio furniture that aligns with the way you relax:

An outdoor L-shape wicker sectional sofa and ottoman set.

For sunkissed hangouts

Tired of the same four walls? Create your own little escape on your balcony or patio. A plush outdoor sofa or sectional makes it easy to nap, read, or sip wine in peace — all in resort-like comfort built to last.


An aluminum outdoor dining table with four matching aluminum chairs.

For dining & hosting

If outdoor dining is your thing, go for dining and bar tables that invite conversation and serve up ample table space. From 4-seaters to spacious 6-seater tables, outdoor dining sets make alfresco meals easy.


Two outdoor teak chaise lounges and a teak side table.

For solo unwinding

Not every space (or mood) calls for a crowd. Whether it’s a small balcony or a quiet corner of your patio, outdoor lounge chairs are perfect for soaking up the sun, reading a book, or just enjoying your own company.

Outdoor furniture materials: Built for sun, rain, and real life

When it comes to outdoor furniture, your material choices need to hold up to the sun, rain, humidity, pasta spills, and yes, the rogue bird that somehow always finds your chair.


Here’s your guide to most durable outdoor furniture materials for all-weather use, so you can pick the right one for fewer regrets and replacements down the line:

A teak outdoor dining table with two coffee mugs and a magazine on the table.

Wood: Solid roots that weather well

Nothing beats the warmth and authenticity of real wood like teak or acacia. They are naturally rot and pest resistant, weather-hardy, and age beautifully. 


Wood does ask for a bit more care, like occasional oiling to prevent cracks, and they’re not the lightest to move if you're a serial rearranger. But for grounding your space with warmth and timeless character? Nothing else comes close.

A round aluminum outdoor dining table with a plate of fruit placed in the center.

Aluminium: Low effort, high style

Want something sleek and fuss-free? Aluminium’s your low-maintenance best friend. Lightweight, rust-resistant, and great for humid environments, it’s the kind of material that just shows up and does its job.


On the flip side, it may not feel as solid or grounded as wood or steel, and lightweight pieces might shift in strong wind. But for easy, fuss-free outdoor living, it’s hard to beat.

An outdoor ottoman-coffee table with a woven base and wooden top.

Wicker & rattan: Woven with character

Wicker and rattan bring an easy, breezy charm to any outdoor space. And, when they’re made from synthetic weaves, you get that warm, natural look with far less upkeep. They're also lightweight and comfy; perfect for shifting around to catch the sun.


They may not be the best in strong winds, and the woven texture can collect dust, but if you're after a soft, organic feel that looks good season after season, these are a timeless pick.

A round aluminum outdoor dining table with a plate of fruit placed in the center.

Steel: Bold and built to last

Steel brings strength, sleek lines, and an industrial-cool aesthetic that adds edge to any outdoor setup. It's incredibly sturdy and can hold up well over time, but it’s not a set-and-forget material. Without proper coatings or care, it’s prone to rust, especially in humid and coastal areas. 


If you’re going for something with a bit more edge and heft, steel’s your guy; Just commit to the upkeep.

Curious about what really holds up outside?

Dive into our guide on the most durable outdoor furniture materials for all-weather peace of mind

Small space, big vibes: Outdoor furniture that pulls its weight

Just because you’re working with a balcony the size of a yoga mat doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring or bare. Designing for tight outdoor areas is less about compromise, more about creativity. 


And the right outdoor furniture makes all the difference. Think compact, flexible pieces that let you stretch out, entertain, or unwind, even in the smallest spaces. Here's how to make every square inch count:

A teak square bar table paired with two matching teak bar stools.

Compact outdoor tables

Think 2-seater bistro sets or slim dining tables. They tuck neatly into corners and still leave room to stretch your legs.


Two woven chairs stacked on top each other.

Stackable chairs

Small on footprint, big on function. These stackable chairs are perfect for last-minute guests and easy to store when not in use.


An aluminum c-side table with a wooden table top.

C-side tables

These space-saving heroes slide beside sofas or armchairs, giving you all the surface you need without eating up precious floor space.

Care tips so your outdoor furniture goes the distance

Even the best pieces and most durable outdoor furniture materials need a little TLC. Here's how to clean and maintain outdoor furniture to keep them looking good and lasting long:

An outdoor teak wood bar cart filled with tableware and a bowl of fruits.

Wood care

Wood is the MVP of outdoor furniture materials. Durable, naturally weather-resistant, and aged to perfection (literally).

  • Clean it with a soft-bristle brush and warm, soapy water.

  • Skip harsh cleaners or power washers as they’ll strip away its natural oils.

  • Apply wood oil or protector to preserve that natural wood tone.

  • Keep it covered when not in use and store indoors during inclement weather.

An outdoor dining table with a wooden tabletop and an aluminum frame.

Aluminium care

Low-maintenance, high-reward. Aluminium doesn’t rust, but it still deserves a rinse.

  • Wipe down regularly with soapy water and a non-abrasive cloth.

  • Let it air dry completely to prevent water from pooling. 

  • Avoid using high-pressure cleaners or harsh chemicals.

  • Keep it covered when not in use and store indoors during inclement weather.

An outdoor ottoman-coffee table with a woven base and wooden top.

Wicker & rattan care

Textured, breathable, and deceptively durable; But yes, it traps dust.

  • Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to get into grooves and weaves.

  • Spot clean with a damp cloth and gentle soap.

  • Avoid soaking wicker or rattan too much as moisture means mould territory.

  • Avoid using high-pressure cleaners or harsh chemicals.

A GRC coffee table with a potted plant and a bowl of fruit.

GRC or resin care

Some of our indoor tables are made of GRC (glass fibre reinforced cement) and resin, which can be used outdoors.

  • As this material is porous, wipe spills immediately. 

  • Dust with a soft, dry cloth and clean with a slightly damp cloth and mild detergent.

  • To prevent discolouration of the surface, use coasters or placemats where possible.

A person zipping up an outdoor cushion cover.

Outdoor cushion care

Our outdoor cushions are made from 100% olefin, so they are water-repellent. Nonetheless, it still needs an occasional spa day. 

  • Brush off dirt and debris to prevent build-up. 

  • Spot clean with a mix of lukewarm water and mild soap.

  • For deeper cleans, our covers are removable for easy cleaning.

  • To prevent mildew from forming, stand cushions on one end and let them dry completely before storing.

Out here looking good

From cosy balconies to breezy backyards, here’s how real people are styling their outdoor furniture.

Outdoor furniture that works for real life

If you’re still wondering how to pick outdoor furniture, here’s your answer: Pick what suits your life, not just your layout. Choose pieces that make you want to spend time outside, not just look at them through the window.


Because when done right, your outdoor space doesn’t just feel “done” — it feels like home. Just with better airflow.

Castlery acknowledges Australia's First Nations as the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
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