Why Purchase Sustainable Outdoor Furniture
Eco-friendly patio sets can offer a perfect blend of sustainability, style and comfort. This allows you to create an outdoor space that is both beautiful and kind to our planet. These brands all use durable, recycled or responsibly sourced materials. Yet, there are a few important things you should consider prior to making your purchase. We'll discuss everything you need to know before you shop.
Materials Matter
When shopping for outdoor furniture, the materials you choose make a big difference. Making the right choice can be eco-friendly while offering style and comfort. The most sustainable furniture uses responsibly sourced woods, bamboo, recycled plastic, and aluminum. Bamboo grows quickly and needs fewer chemicals, so it's great for the environment. Reclaimed wood gives old materials a second life, reducing waste. Recycled plastics help keep trash out of landfills and oceans. Aluminum is incredibly durable and endlessly recyclable. Furniture made from these materials is a smart, sustainable choice!
*As an Amazon Associate, Greener Households earns from qualifying purchases. This occurs at no additional expense to consumers.
Looking for sustainable outdoor wood furniture? Responsibly sourced teak, cedar or acacia trees offer an eco-friendly solution. These woods are also beautiful, durable and easily maintained. We'll discuss the environmental and practical benefits of each wood in detail.
Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture
Eco-friendly Teak wood is extremely popular for outdoor furniture. This wood is naturally beautiful and exceptional durability. Teak is typically harvested from responsibly managed plantations. This makes it an ideal option for green conscious shoppers. Teak's warm golden-brown color and smooth grain make it stylish choice. This wood is naturally resistant to weather, and pests. This allows teak to last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Advantages of Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainable Plantation Management: Teak is typically grown in government-regulated plantations. These farms follow strict sustainable harvesting and replanting programs.
- Carbon Sequestration and Storage: Teak trees absorb and store significant amounts of carbon throughout their lifespan. This helps mitigate climate change and global warming.
- Durability and Longevity: Teak is capable of withstanding severe weather conditions. This means you don’t have to replace it often, which helps reduce waste.
- Natural Resistance: Teak’s natural oils make it resistant to pests and decay. This eliminates the need for chemical treatments, making it safe for the environment.
- Recycling Potential: Teak wood can be recycled at the end of its lifespan. This further extends its carbon storage and reducing waste.
Disadvantages of Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Teak is Heavy: Teak's considerable weight might make rearranging or transporting this furniture more difficult.
- Color Changes Over Time: through the years, teak color tends to take on a silverish appearance. While many consider the aged patina to be part of teak's charm, others may not.
- Needs periodic Maintenance: Occasional application of oil may be necessary to maintain teaks appearance.
- Higher Cost: Teak wood is more expensive than other wood or synthetic outdoor furniture.
*Purchasing Considerations for Cedar Outdoor Furniture
Teak outdoor furniture is as durable as it is beautiful. It's also resistant to weather and pests, making it a top choice for outdoor patios. Yet, the cost and commitment to some upkeep are understandable concerns. But, choosing high-quality, sustainably sourced teak also has its share of perks. Properly maintained, this elegant furniture will enhance your outdoor space for many years. Lastly, There is one very important detail not to over look. Be sure manufacture is using certified natural teak. Many brands simply use teak stain on lesser quality wood.
*Discover the natural beauty and durability of the natural teak. shop these quality brands:
Seven Seas
- 100% Solid Genuine Teak Wood: Seven Seas patio furniture is handmade from 100% solid, genuine teak wood, known for its durability and natural beauty
- Sustainably Sourced: All wood is sourced from government-regulated, sustainable plantations. This ensures environmentally responsible harvesting practices.
- Value Priced: Seven Seas has been producing quality, reasonably priced outdoor furniture since 1998. A strong commitment to reducing unnecessary costs allows Seven Seas offer outstanding values.
Shop Seven Seas
Cambridge Casual
- Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing Practices: All teak is sustainably grown on SVLK-certified. This confirms Cambridge Casual support environmentally friendly business practices.
- Comprehensive Care Guidelines: Cambridge Casual carefully selects defect-free timber. A hand-rubbed finish is then applied to enhance the steak's unique grain character.
- Style and Comfort: Cambridge Casual combines timeless elegance with superior comfort. All seats are ergonomically designed with plush, weather-resistant cushions.
Cedar Wood Outdoor Furniture
Cedar trees are typically grown on responsibly harvested plantations. This ensures furniture produced with these woods abide by strict eco-friendly guidelines. Natural cedar's warm rich grain adds rustic charm to any outdoor space. Also, this wood naturally resists insects and decay without using harmful chemicals.
Advantages of Cedar Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainability: Cedar wood is usually sourced from responsibly managed forests. This includes sustainable practices such as replanting multiple trees for each one harvested. This eco-friendly approach helps to preserve our forest ecosystems.
- Durability: Due to its natural oils, cedar is resistant to rot, decay, insects, and moisture. Quality outdoor cedar furniture can last over 20 years without warping or rotting. Longer replacement periods result in less waste.
- Aesthetic Appeal and Style: Cedar wood has a warm reddish hue and smooth texture. It weathers beautifully over time to a silver patina. Cedar's rustic charm has gained widespread popularity over the years.
- Comfort and Versatility: Cedar outdoor seating provides solid ergonomic support. Additional comfort can be attained with weather-resistant cushions. Blending comfort with functional design creates an inviting outdoor environment.
- Affordability: Cedar is typically a more affordable option than expensive hardwoods like teak. Considering the longevity of this wood, cedar is a great value!
Disadvantages of Cedar Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Maintenance Requirements: Cedar has natural rot and insect resistance. But, it does need regular maintenance to preserve its color and finish. Without treatment, the color may fade from sun exposure. Maintaining cedar furniture often involves cleaning, applying sealants or stains, and occasional refinishing.
- Damages More Easily than Harder Woods: Cedar is a softer wood that can be dented, or damaged by pets’ claws. or transporting. Reasonable care is required to maintain its appearance.
- Susceptibility to Mold and Mildew: Moisture can cause mildew and discoloration. Cleaning with mild bleach solutions and careful maintenance can prevent this from accruing.
- Surface Issues over Time: Like teak, untreated cedar weathers to a silver-gray over time. It also may develop raised grain or "tongues" that may cause splinters. This can possibly affect comfort and appearance.
*Purchasing Considerations for Cedar Outdoor Furniture
Before you invest in cedar furniture, think about where you'll place it and how you plan to use it. Cedar does well in many climates but might need extra care in very harsh or wet environments. Also, weigh its comfort and natural beauty vs the softness. Cedar is prone to dings and dents. Also consider the maintenance needed to preserve its color. If you want pieces that will last decades with minimal damage, hardwood might be a better option. But, if you love the natural look and feel of cedar and are willing to maintain it, cedar can be a wonderful choice. This furniture can be pricier than other options. Still, its durability and charm often justify the investment.
*Enhance your outdoor living space with these well known quality Cedar manufacturers:
Eagle Peak
- Quality Standards: Eagle Peak emphasizes in-house testing and customization. This helps maintain high product quality that meets or exceeds customer expectations.
- Patented Technology: Peak Push center lock system makes single-person setup convenient and easy.
- Manufacturing Ethics: Eagle Peak places a high priority on sustainability and workers rights.
Shop Eagle Peak
Back Yard Discovery
- Sustainable Forest Management: Backyard Discovery plants 4 cedar saplings for every tree cut.
- Non-Toxic Finish: Eco-friendly water-based wood treatments are safe for people and the environment.
- Strong Customer Support Team: Company's commitment to servicing customers enhances their reputation.
Shop Back Yard Discovery
Lakeland Mills
- Sustainability: Discarded tree tops are used in production. This avoids new tree harvesting and minimizes waste. Leftover wood not suitable for building is burned to heat the factory.
- Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Certified, Confirming responsible forest management.
- Made in the USA: All Lakeland Mills outdoor furniture is proudly made in Michigan with Northern white cedar.
Shop Lakeland Mills
Acacia Wood Outdoor Furniture
Acacia wood offers a more price conscious, sustainable outdoor furniture option. Acacia trees grow fast and in most cases sourced from responsible plantations. With proper care, it also has reasonable durability. While not having the longevity of teak or cedar, it remains a great dollar value. As for style, acacia wood features rich, warm tones with beautiful grain patterns. Read more to decide if outdoor acacia furniture is right for you...
Advantages of Acacia Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainability: Acacia trees grow rapidly, allowing for multiple harvests in the same year. This helps make this wood a world wide renewable and sustainable resource.
- Eco-Friendly Characteristics: Harvesting acacia produces minimal waste. Leftover wood is commonly converted to biomass pellets used for fossil-free energy. This further reduces acacia's long term environmental impact. Acacia is also available in many parts of the world, including the US. This Accessibility reduces transportation emissions.
- Durability: Acacia wood is naturally resistant to scratching and damage from outdoor elements. It is reasonable to expect decent longevity from this furniture.
- Low Maintenance: Acacia wood furniture requires minimal upkeep. It needs only occasional soap and water cleaning. Periodic oiling is also recommended to protect against sun damage and warping.
- Style: Acacia wood has warm, rich hues and distinctive tiger stripe grains. Its unique coloration complements a variety of outdoor décors.
Disadvantages of Acacia Wood Outdoor Furniture
- Moisture Sensitivity: Acacia wood is moderately water-resistant due to its natural oils. Yet, prolonged or frequent exposure to moisture can cause this wood to swell or crack. Periodic oiling is a preemptive way to stave off this kind of damage.
- Inconsistent Wood Quality and Grain: Wood irregularities may or may not be a deal breaker. To some, variances in color or an occasional knot are part of acacia's rustic charm. But, others may view these inconsistencies as an unacceptable characteristic. It's really a question of personal preference and taste.
- Maintenance: Wash with mild soap and water to remove dust and soil. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. Periodic oiling and sealing is recommended to prevent damage from elements.
*Purchasing Considerations for Acacia Outdoor Furniture
Acacia provides a more affordable wood outdoor furniture option than teak or cedar. While this wood is reasonable durable, it does require a considerable amount of maintenance. Protection from severe weather and temperature fluctuations is essential to ensure longevity. Covered outdoor spaces or climates without extreme climates best suit acacia furniture.
*Search sustainable, value priced Acacia wood outdoor furniture
FDW
- Sustainability: FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification verifies FDW adheres to strict social, economic, and ecological standards.
- Low Cost: FDW outdoor furniture offers great value in at reasonable price points.
- Style Options: FDW offers contemporary styles featuring clean lines and geometric shapes.
Shop FDW
Orange Casual
- Sustainability: Orange Casual is crafted from FSC-certified acacia wood. This verifies sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly forestry practices.
- Cost Effective: OC offers Budget-friendly outdoor furniture without compromising quality.
- Design Features: Convenient extendable tables, stackable chairs, and easily removable, washable cushions.
Shop Orange Casual
Flamaker
- Sustainability: FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification verifies Flaymaker adheres to strict social, economic, and ecological standards.
- International Organization for Standardization Certified: ISO verifies Flaymaker furniture is safe and of high quality.
- Style and Affordability: features sleek, simple designs at reasonable price points.
Shop Flamaker
vidaXL Patio Lounge Set
Natural Bamboo Outdoor Furniture
Bamboo is a fast growing, rapidly renewable resource. It thrives with little water or chemical usage. This furniture is built to last, resisting damage like warping, cracking, and pests. This means it can handle outdoor conditions well and stay beautiful for years. Bamboo has a natural, warm appearance that brings a touch of style to any garden or patio. Esthetically, it meshes well with both rustic and contemporary preferences.
Choosing bamboo furniture is a smart, sustainable option for any outdoor living space. Shoppers can find many quality manufacturers producing bamboo patio furniture. Popular homeowner choices include brands like TropiQ, Bambu Home, and Gloster.
Advantages of Bamboo Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainability: bamboo grows rapidity with minimal water usage. It also requires only little to no fertilizers, or pesticides. Bamboo also helps reduce carbon dioxide in the air while producing oxygen. This further reduce its carbon footprint.
- Recyclable: Bamboo is both renewable and recyclable. It can be repurposed into reusable raw materials or eco-friendly products. Bamboo's circular lifecycle reduces the environmental impact of both production and final disposal.
- Lightweight Construction: Bamboo weighs less than most other outdoor furniture. This makes transporting or rearranging easy and convenient.
- Durability: Bamboo has tensile strength comparable to steel. It resists cracking and warping even with exposure to moisture. Bamboo patio furniture can withstand heavy use and severe outdoor weather conditions.
- Style and Appearance: Bamboo's natural grains are distinctively beautiful. Its light appealing color lends itself well to a wide range of style preferences.
Disadvantages of Bamboo Outdoor Furniture
- Moisture Sensitivity: Excessive humidity or rain can damage bamboo. This may cause outdoor furniture to warp, crack, or develop mold.
- Susceptible to fading: Direct sun exposure can damage bamboo's color and structure. UV radiation causes chemical changes that lead to fading and deterioration. Prolonged exposure dries out bamboo's natural oils, making furniture brittle and less stable.
- Regular Maintenance Required: To prevent damage, bamboo outdoor furniture needs routine protective treatments. Sealants or varnishes, and periodic cleaning are necessary to maintain appearance and durability.
*Purchasing Considerations for Bamboo Outdoor Furniture
Bamboo outdoor furniture is both eco-friendly and attractive. Its unique style will add a beautiful touch to any outdoor space. But, moisture, insects, and sunlight can cause damage over time. Careful maintenance is necessary to insure longevity. When purchasing patio furniture, take all the pros and cons into consideration.
Polywood Adirondack Chairs
Recycled Material Outdoor Furniture
Choosing furniture made from recycled or recyclable materials helps reduce plastic waste. This reduces consumption of natural resources, making this furniture a sustainable option. These pieces are built to last, resisting weather damage, pests, and fading. Over time, this saves you money on replacements.
Plus, recycled plastic furniture comes in a variety of designs. Options include various color and style designs to fit your outdoor space. Feel good about making a smart and eco-friendly choice for any patio or garden! Choose from sustainable and stylish brands like Polywood, TerraCast, and Outer.
Advantages of Recycled Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainability: Recycled or recyclable furniture reduces waste by repurposing existing materials. This lowers demand for virgin resources, minimizing landfill waste.
- Durability: Many recycled furniture pieces are crafted from high-quality, reclaimed materials. Repurposed hardwood, metal and plastic, create robust, long-lasting patio furniture. These materials resist damage from moisture and prolonged sun exposure.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Using recycled or recyclable furniture reduces manufacturing and transportation emissions. This contributes to lower greenhouse gas output and promotes a greener lifestyle.
- Circular Economy Support: Investing in recyclable furniture promotes a circular economy model. These products encourage sustainable consumption priorities for both manufacturers and consumers.
- Style and Appearance: Recycled materials are available in unique textures and colors. This provides consumers with a variety of style options. Purchasing furniture made from reclaimed material adds character to any outdoor living space.
Disadvantages of Recycled Outdoor Furniture
- Heat Retention: Recycled plastic can get warm under direct sunlight. This could make seating uncomfortable on hot days. Use of cushions or shade might be necessary.
- Appearance: Recycled furniture may lack the upscale look of natural wood or metal. Limitations exist for wood grain textures or intricate designs.
- Higher Initial Cost: Eco-friendly recycled furniture can be pricier than cheaper plastic furniture. But, their long lifespan and low maintenance often offset the cost over time
*Purchasing Considerations for Recycled Outdoor Furniture
Before buying outdoor furniture made from recycled materials, consider the following criteria. If you live in a very sunny area, you may want cushions or shaded spots to offset heat retention. On the positive side, recycled materials significantly reduce your upkeep time. You should also consider your style preferences and budget. While recycled furniture is cost-effective long-term, initial prices can be higher. Also, esthetics might differ from traditional materials. Lastly, look into warranties and whether the company offers recycling or take-back programs. Choosing quality recycled outdoor patio furniture is a smart step towards sustainability.
UDPATIO 5 Pieces Aluminum Patio Set
Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
Aluminum patio furniture offers a combination of sustainability, longevity, and style. It is recyclable, so choosing aluminum helps reduce waste and supports the environment. It’s also exceptionally durable, holding up to all types of weather conditions.
This furniture is also made in a wide range of styles. From casual patios to elegant decks, aluminum has you covered. Popular aluminum outdoor furniture manufacturers include Brown Jordan, OW Lee, Castelle, Ratana, and Harmonia Living.
Advantages of Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
- Sustainability: Aluminum outdoor furniture is 100% recyclable. Amazingly, this metal loses none of its original original quality when repurposed. Recycling aluminum vs producing new saves about 95% of the original energy required. Repeating this process over time can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Durability: Aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion and rust. This makes it an ideal material for outdoor furniture. Aluminum is capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions while maintaining its structural integrity. Expect many years of enjoyment from this solidly built furniture.
- Lightweight and Versatile: Extruded aluminum is light and easy to transport or rearrange. Cast aluminum, on the other hand offers extra durability but is heavier. Choose either base on the benefits that best suit your needs.
- Low Maintenance: Aluminum outdoor furniture requires minimal upkeep. A simple wipe down or periodic soap and water cleaning is all it takes. This makes aluminum a hassle-free outdoor furniture option.
- Style and Appearance: Molded aluminum can be produced in a variety of shapes and sizes. This versatility allows for usage in many different styles. From chic modern designs to classic standards, the options are limitless. Powder-coated finishes in various colors offer even greater creativity. All things considered, aluminum patio furniture can complement any outdoor décor.
Disadvantages of Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
- Lightweight and Wind Susceptibility: In particular, Extruded aluminum is very lightweight. This makes it prone to be blown around by heavy winds. Cast aluminum furniture is heavier and less likely to sustain damage.
- Heat Retention: Aluminum tends to retain heat when exposed to direct sunlight. This could make for uncomfortable seating on hot summer days. Adding cushioned seats and placing furniture in shady areas can help.
- Durability Concerns: Aluminum is durable for its weight. But, it is not as strong as some other metals like steel. Under extreme pressure, it can bend, buckle, or dent. This is especially true if made with thin or hollow sections.
*Purchasing Considerations for Aluminum Outdoor Furniture
Before you buy aluminum outdoor furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about the size and layout of your outdoor space. This ensures the furniture fits well and meets your lifestyle needs. Consider the type of aluminum used. Extruded aluminum is lighter and easier to move. On the flipside, cast aluminum offers extra durability but is heavier. Remember, quality companies offer powder-coated finishes to protect your furniture from the elements. Lastly, factor in the low maintenance required for aluminum furniture. But, also remember comfort cushions will need occasional cleaning or replacement. Follow these tips and find aluminum furniture that’s the perfect fit!
Making a Responsible Decision
Choosing eco-friendly patio furniture is a smart choice for your home and the planet. Sustainable materials like recycled plastic and responsibly sourced wood help reduce environmental impact. These durable, low-maintenance pieces are also available in stylish, comfortable designs. Purchasing these products supports greener, more ethical manufacturing practices. So, why not transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, responsible oasis today!
