A garden chair needs to offer more than good looks. Depending on where it is used, a sturdy construction, suitable seat dimensions, a reliable folding function and manageable maintenance requirements all matter. If you focus only on colour or a low price, you may not discover potential weaknesses until after buying.
Materials such as acacia wood, poly rattan, polyester or Oxford fabric may be suitable for outdoor use. However, that does not automatically mean a chair should be left out in the rain permanently. Water, frost and strong sunlight can put long-term strain on surfaces, cushions and seams.
Pay close attention to the specific care instructions. If a weatherproof garden chair is not going to be used for an extended period, it should ideally be covered with a protective cover or stored somewhere dry. Wooden furniture may need regular re-oiling.
The stated maximum load capacity is an important technical specification, but it does not replace safe use. A folding garden chair can tip over if its legs have not fully clicked into place or if it is used on uneven ground. With reclining and sun loungers, additional leverage is created if you put significant weight on the head or foot section.
Before sitting down, make sure all the legs are firmly positioned on the ground. The chair must not be used as a step, ladder or swing.
A space-saving garden chair only becomes practical if its folded dimensions fit your balcony, cellar, boot, or garden shed. You should therefore check both the unfolded dimensions and the packed size, weight and transport options.
Seat height is particularly important for everyday use. Low, deep models can be comfortable when relaxing, but may not be easy for everyone to get up from. A garden chair with a cushion also changes the actual seat height.
You should also check:
A wooden garden chair offers a natural look and can last for many years with the right care. Acacia wood is comparatively hard, but oiled surfaces still need protection from prolonged exposure to moisture.
Steel frames are strong and retain their shape, but can be prone to rust if the coating is damaged. For textile surfaces, tear resistance, removable covers and the cleaning instructions are key considerations. Poly rattan is easy to care for, while cushions and padding are best stored somewhere dry when it rains.
A reclining garden chair or a folding sun lounger should have several clearly defined positions. Check that the backrest locks securely into place and that the mechanism can be operated without excessive force.
Objective specifications can help you make the right choice:
A camping chair with reclining function should also be easy to transport. A carry bag, low weight and compact packed size are often more important for the beach, a picnic or camping than an especially imposing appearance.
Why this product suits this profile: The butterfly chair takes up comparatively little space and is ideal as an extra seat in the garden or on the patio.
According to the product information, the removable canvas seat is machine washable. This makes it easier to care for than permanently sewn-in seat surfaces.
Steel frame, four feet, grey canvas seat and a stated load capacity of 150 kg.
Why this product suits this profile: This classic wooden reclining garden chair combines a wooden frame with a three-position adjustable backrest, making it suitable for the patio, park or beach.
The backrest has three positions; the product information also states that it has Class 4 UV resistance in accordance with ISO 105-B02. Care and dry storage are still required.
Acacia wood frame, polyester surface, weight of 6.7 kg, folding construction and a 2-year guarantee according to the product description.
Why this product suits this profile: For camping, picnics, fishing, the beach and balconies, this chair offers a reclining function, a compact packed size and a carry bag.
The three positions and stated static load capacity of approximately 110 kg are clearly specified. The chair must be fully unfolded and used on firm ground.
Weight of 4.45 kg, packed size of approximately 24 × 23 × 93 cm, padded headrest, cup holder and side pocket.
Why this product suits this profile: This set of two is suitable for a balcony, patio or garden when you need several matching seats.
The folding function makes storage easier. The product information also states that the chairs should be protected from moisture when not in use.
Two chairs made from oiled acacia wood, seat measuring 53 × 52 cm, seat height of 29 cm, no assembly required and a load capacity of 120 kg per chair.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
Even a sturdy garden chair will remain functional for longer if it is stored appropriately. Clean wood with a mild cleaning product and a soft cloth, following the direction of the grain. Any moisture should be dried off immediately. With oiled acacia wood, re-oiling before or after the season may be advisable.
Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, textiles can be cleaned with a damp sponge, mild detergent or in the washing machine if the covers are removable. Cushions should be stored somewhere dry during rain and when not in use for an extended period.
A quick check before every use is recommended:
A space-saving garden chair with a folding function is often a sensible choice. Check the folded dimensions and the width when open. Where space is limited, narrow folding chairs or compact butterfly chairs may be more suitable than deep reclining models.
Its lifespan depends on the material, use, care and storage. Wood should be protected from prolonged damp and treated as needed, depending on its finish. Metal frames should be checked for damaged coatings. With folding chairs, it is also important to inspect the joints and locking mechanisms regularly.
In addition to the purchase price, there may be care and storage costs. These could include wood oil, a protective cover or additional storage space. With a garden chair that has cushions, the cushion also needs to be stored somewhere dry. As a result, a low-maintenance material may be more practical in everyday use, even though the purchase price is not the only factor to consider.