At a Glance:
Best Materials for Outdoor Sofas
Did you know that as many as 42% of Americans are deficient in Vitamin D? Being outside in the sun is one of the best ways to get Vitamin D, and you only need to be outside for 10 to 300 minutes to reap the benefits, depending on the time of year, your location, and your skin tone. One study found that spending just two hours a week in green spaces makes people much more likely to report good health and psychological well-being. With a welcoming outdoor space, you can enjoy nature in your own backyard. Creating a gathering place with comfortable outdoor sofas might be the first step to spending more time outside.
Explore Outdoor Seating at Idler's
Looking for outdoor seating to spruce up your patio? Discover outdoor sofas, loveseats, and sectionals in various styles and designs at Idler's Home, today!
Shop Outdoor SeatingThe key is to select outdoor sofas that are stylish, comfortable, and durable. They must stand up to the harsh elements—wind, sun, and rain—since they’re intended for outside use. Here, we’ll discuss the benefits of outdoor sofas as well as choosing the right material for a sofa that will last through the seasons. Then, we’ll recommend our 8 best outdoor sofas and give tips on how to choose and save on an outdoor sofa from Idler’s.
Benefits of Outdoor Sofas
In addition to encouraging more time in the sun, there are several more benefits for sprucing up your deck or patio with outdoor sofas.
✅ Comfort: Outdoor sofas typically provide more cushioning and back support compared to Adirondack chairs or dining chairs, making them ideal for lounging and relaxation.
✅ Promote Connection: Having a central outdoor spot to hang out encourages conversation, connection, and community. Make your backyard the go-to place in the neighborhood to gather with friends and family.
✅ Versatility: An outdoor sofa set can serve multiple functions, whether you want to host a group or retreat by yourself to nap or read.
✅ Style: Outdoor sofas come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that complements your outdoor decor and enhances the appeal of your patio or deck.
✅ Space Utilization: Sofas can maximize seating capacity in smaller outdoor spaces by accommodating more people in a compact area compared to individual chairs. A curved outdoor sofa is great for creating a cozy corner on your patio.
✅ Modular Options: Some outdoor sofas come with modular designs, allowing you to customize the configuration based on your space. For example, you can often rearrange an outdoor patio sectional sofa based on your seating needs and number of guests.
Drawbacks
Of course, any type of furniture comes with drawbacks to consider as well.
❌ Limited Dining Functionality: If you love hosting dinner parties outside, outdoor sofas are not the most practical option. An outdoor dining table and chairs will be better for providing ample seating and space for food and drinks.
❌ Space Requirements: If you have a small outdoor area, larger outdoor sofas may take up too much space. An outdoor sectional sofa may be too large while an outdoor loveseat might be a great alternative.
❌ Cost: Outdoor sofas, especially those with high-quality materials and construction, can be more expensive than other patio furniture options, such as Adirondack chairs or dining sets. However, you can find plenty of ways to save on outdoor sofas.
→ Learn more: What to Consider When Buying Outdoor Furniture
Featured Outdoor Sofas
Best Materials for Outdoor Sofas
Perhaps the most important part of choosing an outdoor sofa is selecting the right material that will last. It’s important to keep in mind factors like durability, maintenance, weather conditions, and climate as well as comfort and style.
Here, we compare some of the most popular outdoor furniture materials side-by-side, rating each material out of 5 in terms of construction, durability, and weathering so you can make a well-informed choice.
Wood
When it comes to wood outdoor sofas, it’s an obvious choice thanks to its timeless style. No matter your favorite aesthetic, you can find wood outdoor sofas that fit the look you want. The key is to choose hardwoods like teak or eucalyptus as opposed to softwoods like pine and cedar. While they’re lovely, they can’t withstand the wear and tear of being outside. Wood is fairly resistant to insects, cracking, and warping. In terms of maintenance, it needs to be cleaned, sealed, and refinished every few seasons.
➥ The Verdict: 4 out of 5
Rattan
Rattan is most popular for its natural look, perfect for a coastal or cottage style patio. It’s easy to clean and maintain, lightweight, and fairly resistant to weather and sun damage. However, it may fade or crack over time, and when it is damaged, it’s pretty hard to fix. We recommend finding synthetic rattan options that simulate the look of rattan but offer more durability.
➥ The Verdict: 3 out of 5
Plastic
If you want to keep your budget low, plastic is a great option for outdoor sofas in terms of affordability. Plastic patio furniture is lightweight, and it doesn’t need to be treated or maintained, although it may fade or crack over time and typically degrades in sunlight. Overall, it’s better for a low-budget or temporary option, but there are plenty of more stylish and durable options to choose from.
➥ The Verdict: 2 out of 5
Resin Wicker
Offering the look of wicker with better durability, resin wicker outdoor sofas are an excellent option. Even in extreme temperatures, it won’t fade, discolor, crack, or break, and it’s highly resistant to rain, sun, and humidity. It’s also ideal for a variety of design aesthetics that incorporate natural materials—like boho, eclectic, farmhouse, and coastal.
➥ The Verdict: 4 out of 5
8 Best Outdoor Sofas
Keep reading for our top 8 best outdoor sofa picks from Idler’s.
Signature Design by Ashley Clare View Beige Sofa with Cushion
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This light and bright choice is perfect for a boho or coastal backyard. The slatted back has a casual, beachy vibe. The neutral couch cushions and colorful throw pillows are upholstered with high-performing, low-maintenance Nuvella fabric to add comfort and durability. Likewise, the durable eucalyptus wood frame is sealed with a 5-step process, so you can rest assured it will withstand the elements.
Signature Design by Ashley Elite Park Gray Outdoor Sofa with Cushion
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For a cooler color palette, this outdoor sofa pairs a dark gray frame with light gray cushions and frosty blue throw pillows. It’s perfect for a modern or contemporary patio design. The most durable materials are all at play here—a rust-proof aluminum frame, stainless steel hardware, all-weather resin wicker, and Nuvella performance fabric. It’s easy to clean, and you can leave it outside all year long.
Signature Design by Ashley Amora Charcoal Grey Sofa
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This modern outdoor sofa is another great choice for a contemporary, minimalist, or industrial patio design. The blue patterned cushions add just the right amount of contrast alongside the light gray cushions and dark gray frame. HDPE material mimics the look of wood but saves you time and effort on maintenance. When the season to be outside rolls around, you’ll be ready to go.
Signature Design by Asley Grasson Lane Brown/Blue Sofa with Cushion
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If you want to introduce a pop of color into your space, this brown and blue sofa is a great option. Both colors draw from nature and give your space a calming feel. The white piping gives it a tailored, polished look, perfect for a transitional or contemporary design. In terms of durability, Nuvella performance fabric, a rust-free aluminum frame, and all-weather resin wicker combine to last for the long haul, no matter what nature brings its way.
Signature Design by Ashley Emmeline Beige/Brown Outdoor Sofa
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This piece has the look of a teak outdoor sofa without the maintenance requirements. Thanks to the Mega Tuff HDPE, you won’t have to refinish, seal, or paint your sofa again and again. The design of the frame, with its slanting angles and warm wood tone, is perfect for a mid-century modern outdoor space. We love the neutral feel of this couch and how the patterned throw pillows add just the right amount of visual interest.
Signature Design by Ashley Seton Creek Gray Outdoor Sofa with Cushion
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This sofa outdoor pick will make you feel like you’re lounging by the beach. The tan base supports a see-through resin wicker couch and sand-colored Nuvella cushions. The variety of neutrals plays so well together, especially with the layers of patterns and textures. It’s an ideal sofa for a coastal or boho design.
Signature Design by Ashley Sandy Bloom Beige Outdoor Sofa with Cushion
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This Signature Design by Ashley outdoor sofa features creamy neutral cushions and a brown all-weather wicker couch with a sturdy aluminum frame. This classic palette enables you to introduce your favorite accent colors through plants, pots, or a rug. Your guests will instantly feel a sense of calm as they step onto your patio, and they’ll feel at ease settling onto this comfortable sofa. It’s perfect for a modern, coastal, transitional, or boho design.
Signature Design by Ashley Swiss Valley Beige Outdoor Sofa with Cushion
Shop this Signature Design by Ashley Outdoor Sofa
This outdoor couch sofa has a different style of frame than our other picks, giving it a playful feel. The throw cushions are textured and bold, adding another fun detail. The frame itself is made of handwoven rope wrapped around a sturdy aluminum frame, and the cushions are upholstered with Nuvella fabric. This neutral, playful pick is perfect for a mid-century modern or eclectic patio.
→ Learn more: 5 Deck Chairs for Perfect Summertime
How to Choose an Outdoor Sofa
When choosing the right outdoor sofa for your space, consider factors such as size, color, design, shape, durability, weather resistance, and budget. Measure your outdoor area to ensure the sofa fits comfortably without overwhelming the space. Choose colors and designs that complement your existing outdoor decor and personal style. Opt for durable materials like aluminum or synthetic wicker that can withstand outdoor conditions and resist rust, fading, and moisture damage. Consider the sofa's shape and configuration to ensure it fits your seating needs and space layout. Finally, set a budget and compare options to find the best value for your money without compromising on quality.
You can also ask yourself these 5 questions as you compare outdoor sofas:
- What is the intended use of the outdoor space? Consider whether you'll primarily use your backyard for lounging, dining, or entertaining guests, as this will influence the size, style, and features you need.
- What is the available space? Measure your outdoor area to determine the dimensions and layout possibilities for the sofa. Ensure there's enough room for the sofa itself as well as plenty of clearance to move around it.
- What materials are best suited to the climate? Factor in the weather conditions in your area and choose materials that can withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, humidity, and other outdoor elements.
- What level of maintenance am I willing to undertake? Consider the upkeep required for different materials and finishes. While some may require occasional cleaning and maintenance, others may be more low-maintenance and durable in outdoor settings.
- What style and design aesthetic do I prefer? Think about how the outdoor sofa will complement your existing outdoor decor and landscaping. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design, rustic charm, or timeless elegance, choose a sofa that aligns with your personal style and enhances the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.
→ Learn more: 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Tiny Outdoor Space
Ways to Save on Outdoor Sofas
Spending time outside contributes to your overall sense of health and well-being, and creating a peaceful outdoor space promotes connection with family and friends. All these things are worth investing in, so it’s helpful to find ways to save.
At Idler’s, you can browse our promotions and our outlet and clearance options. Outdoor sofas on clearance are also available during holiday weekends and promotional days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These are the best times of the year to find great deals on furniture and appliances. Also, while buying an outdoor furniture set might not be in your budget if you paid outright, in-store financing allows you to pay over time as you enjoy your furniture from day one.
Whether you want to feel like you’re by the beach or at a modern lounge, you can find stylish and durable patio furniture for your outdoor space. The key is to find the best material for the weather in your area and the look you want. For California shoppers, Idler’s is the best place to shop for outdoor furniture. Stop by one of our locations to compare outdoor sofas in person today.
FAQ
How to clean outdoor sofa cushions?
To clean outdoor sofa cushions, remove them from the sofa and spot-clean any stains with a mild detergent and water solution, then rinse thoroughly and air dry.
How to build an outdoor sofa?
Building an outdoor sofa typically involves constructing a frame using weather-resistant wood or metal, then adding cushions and upholstery to provide comfort and style.
What is the best material for outdoor sofas?
The best material for outdoor sofas is typically weather-resistant materials such as aluminum, synthetic wicker, or teak, which can withstand exposure to the elements without deteriorating.
Where to buy an outdoor sofa near me?
California shoppers can find durable outdoor sofas in a variety of design styles, ranging from coastal to modern at Idler’s.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Outdoor Sofas at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop outdoor sofas online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find the right outdoor sofa for your patio — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
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