How to choose poolside furniture

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Introduction

A swimming pool is more than just a place to swim—it’s a hub for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors. The right poolside furniture can elevate your entire backyard experience, turning your pool area into a stylish and comfortable retreat. In this complete step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to choose poolside furniture that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle while standing up to the elements.

Why Poolside Furniture Matters

The furniture you choose for your pool area does more than fill space—it impacts how you use the area and how long your investment lasts. Good poolside furniture should:

  • Provide comfort for lounging and entertaining
  • Resist water, UV rays, and harsh weather
  • Match your aesthetic and available space
  • Enhance safety with stable and durable designs

Whether you’re furnishing a large patio or a small deck, thoughtful choices lead to longer-lasting style and functionality.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Poolside Furniture

Step 1: Assess Your Space and Layout

Before shopping, take a good look at your pool area:

  • Measure the space where you want to place furniture.
  • Identify key zones—lounging, dining, shade, conversation, or tanning.
  • Check for traffic flow so furniture doesn’t block pool access or create hazards.
  • Consider pool shape and deck material—curves, stairs, and narrow walkways affect furniture choices.

📐 Tip: Use painter’s tape to outline potential furniture placements on the ground before purchasing.

Step 2: Define Your Needs and Usage

Ask yourself how you and your guests will use the space:

  • Do you entertain guests frequently?
  • Do you need space for sunbathing, reading, or casual dining?
  • Will children be using the area often?
  • Are you furnishing a quiet retreat or a lively entertainment zone?

Common poolside furniture needs include:

  • Lounge chairs or chaise lounges for sunbathing
  • Sectionals or outdoor sofas for relaxing
  • Dining tables and chairs for meals
  • Umbrellas or shade canopies for sun protection
  • Storage benches or side tables for function and convenience

🧺 Bonus: Multifunctional furniture—like ottomans with hidden storage—can help in smaller areas.

Step 3: Choose the Right Material

Poolside furniture needs to be water-resistant, UV-resistant, and easy to maintain. Here are the most common outdoor furniture materials:

1. Aluminum

  • Lightweight and rust-resistant
  • Powder-coated options resist fading
  • Ideal for humid or rainy climates
  • Easy to move and rearrange

2. Teak Wood

  • Naturally weather-resistant and beautiful
  • Durable and long-lasting with proper care
  • More expensive and requires occasional oiling to prevent graying

3. Resin Wicker (All-Weather Wicker)

  • Made from synthetic materials over a rust-proof frame
  • Stylish and comfortable
  • Needs occasional cleaning but resists cracking and fading

4. Plastic/Polypropylene

  • Budget-friendly and lightweight
  • Waterproof and fade-resistant
  • Ideal for family use or high-traffic areas
  • May not be as long-lasting or stylish as other options

5. Steel or Iron

  • Strong and sturdy
  • Best for windy areas
  • Requires powder coating and may rust if not maintained

☀️ Pro Tip: Avoid untreated wood or indoor fabrics—they won’t last under UV rays or near chlorinated water.

Step 4: Select Weather-Resistant Cushions and Fabrics

Comfort is key, but not all cushions are made equal. Choose materials designed for outdoor use:

  • Solution-dyed acrylic (e.g., Sunbrella): Fade- and water-resistant, breathable, and quick-drying
  • Olefin and polyester blends: Affordable, durable, and resistant to mold and UV rays
  • Foam: Opt for fast-drying foam cores with mesh undersides for drainage

🌧️ Tip: Choose cushions with removable covers for easy washing and consider storing them when not in use to extend their life.

Step 5: Prioritize Function and Comfort

Look for furniture that offers both style and usability:

  • Adjustable backrests on lounge chairs allow for personalized comfort
  • Swivel or rocking chairs are ideal for relaxation and socializing
  • Foldable or stackable options make seasonal storage easier
  • Built-in side tables or cup holders add convenience

🪑 Test Before Buying: Sit, recline, and move the furniture if you’re shopping in person—comfort matters.

Step 6: Consider Maintenance and Durability

Outdoor furniture should be easy to care for, especially in a pool environment:

  • Hose down or wipe clean regularly to remove sunscreen, chlorine, or dirt
  • Apply protective sealants to wood or metal furniture annually
  • Check joints, bolts, and feet regularly for signs of wear or rust

🧽 Bonus: Look for scratch-resistant and non-slip finishes for added longevity and safety.

Step 7: Stick to Your Budget

Pool furniture ranges from budget-friendly to luxury. Here’s how to stretch your dollars:

  • Mix and match: Pair high-quality loungers with budget-friendly side tables
  • Buy off-season: Prices drop in late summer and early fall
  • Shop secondhand or clearance for quality at a discount
  • Invest in key pieces first, like loungers and an umbrella, and add extras later

💡 Remember: A higher upfront cost for durable materials can save money in the long run.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Buying Without Measuring
    • Oversized pieces may crowd your deck.
    • Solution: Measure carefully before purchasing.
  2. Choosing Non-Weather-Resistant Fabrics
    • Regular cushions fade, mold, or rot quickly outdoors.
    • Solution: Use only outdoor-rated fabrics and cushions.
  3. Ignoring Comfort
    • Stylish furniture that’s uncomfortable won’t get used.
    • Solution: Always test for comfort if possible—or read reviews carefully.
  4. Skipping Shade Options
    • Too much sun limits enjoyment.
    • Solution: Include umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails in your design.
  5. Neglecting Maintenance
    • Unmaintained furniture wears out fast.
    • Solution: Follow care instructions and store cushions when not in use.

Extra Tips & Pool Hacks

  • Add an outdoor rug to define the space and reduce slips
  • Use waterproof storage boxes to keep towels, toys, or cushions organized
  • Solar-powered lights or lanterns create evening ambiance
  • Stick rubber pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches or movement
  • Anchor umbrellas properly to avoid wind-related accidents

🪴 Want to make the space even more inviting? Check out our guide on how to decorate your pool area affordably for budget-friendly styling tips.

Conclusion

Choosing the right poolside furniture is about more than just looks—it’s about comfort, durability, and making the most of your outdoor space. Whether you’re creating a personal retreat or a gathering space for friends and family, taking the time to select the right pieces will pay off in both function and style. With the right materials, layout, and planning, your poolside area will become the go-to spot for summer relaxation.

💡 Final Tip: Start with a few core pieces and build out your poolside oasis over time—function first, style always.