Two extra seats for your balcony, patio or garden might seem like a straightforward purchase. In practice, though, unclear weight limits, delicate materials and bulky designs can often lead to the wrong choice. If you’re looking for a set of 2 garden chairs, consider more than just the colour and price. Think about how you’ll use them, their dimensions, how to care for them and where to store them.
For outdoor chairs, “weather-resistant” often means they offer greater protection from moisture or UV rays. It doesn’t necessarily mean you can leave them outside all year without cover. Protect wooden chairs from prolonged exposure to moisture and re-oil them regularly, depending on the finish. Cushions, fabric covers and coated metal surfaces also benefit from being covered or stored somewhere dry.
A folding garden chair is generally easier to store away. But the folded dimensions, weight and ease of use of the folding mechanism all matter. If you have a small balcony, check whether two chairs will fit side by side, one behind the other or in a storage cupboard. A model that can’t be stacked will also need a suitable space to stand.
For a set of 2 garden chairs, the maximum weight limit usually applies to each individual chair, not to the set as a whole. This figure shouldn’t be taken as a green light for sudden or forceful movements, either. Rocking, dropping heavily into the chair or using it on uneven ground can put more strain on the frame than sitting calmly. Before you buy, make sure you check the weight limit, base dimensions and folding mechanism lock.
For balcony and patio chairs, seat height, seat depth and overall width are especially important. A seat height of around 43 to 48 cm will often suit a standard dining table. Lower models are better for relaxed seating or a lounge-style setting. Camping chair sets of 2 often have a lower seat height, which can make them a good choice for picnics, the beach or other outings.
Before you buy, measure:
Acacia wood has a natural look and is often supplied with an oiled finish. Clean it with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Dry any damp patches promptly. If you plan to leave it outdoors for a long time, use a protective cover or store it indoors somewhere dry.
Aluminium is relatively lightweight and won’t rust like uncoated steel. A powder-coated finish can protect the surface, but avoid using abrasive cleaners on it. Steel frames can be strong and sturdy, but need protection from prolonged moisture and damage to the coating.
For fabric and mesh surfaces, check whether the covers are removable, how long they take to dry and what the care instructions say. Ideally, any stated UV rating should refer to a specific class or standard. For example, the CANETTO model is listed as having UV resistance class 6 under ISO 105-B02. This is a verifiable product specification, but it doesn’t replace covering the chairs when they’re not in use for a long time.
Armrests, backrests and the seat all affect comfort. If you’ll be sitting for a while, a suitably wide seat and supportive backrest matter more than a particularly decorative shape. Make sure all the joints on folding chairs are fully locked into place. Only use the chairs on a flat, stable surface with good grip.
Also check for:
Why this product suits this profile: Two folding outdoor chairs for camping, picnics, fishing or the garden. At 2.5 kg each, they’re easy to take on the go, and the included carry bags make transport simpler.
The product details give the dimensions, materials and a maximum static load of 150 kg per chair. The mesh panels and carry bags make them a practical choice for taking on the go.
Steel frame, Oxford fabric, nylon mesh, adjustable armrests, plus cup holders and an organiser pocket.
Why this product suits this profile: Oiled acacia wood, wide armrests and a folding design combine a natural look with easy storage on a patio or balcony.
The product details state a weight limit of 130 kg per chair, a seat height of 43 cm and care requirements for oiled acacia wood.
No assembly required, folding design, 9 kg per chair and, according to the product details, resistance to moisture and stains.
Why this product suits this profile: For longer spells on the patio or in the garden, this set includes seat and back cushions, armrests and an aluminium frame.
The covers are removable and washable. The product details also state a maximum weight limit of 130 kg per chair and a specific UV resistance class.
Powder-coated aluminium frame, polyester rope weave, seat and back cushions, and a 52 × 52 cm seat.
Why this product suits this profile: Along with two balcony chairs, the set includes a matching round table, making it a good fit for small outdoor spaces.
The metal design folds away and comes ready to use, with no assembly required. That means there’s no extra set-up before you can enjoy it.
Includes a table and two chairs, 60 cm table diameter, folding design and easy-care metal.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Folding garden chairs are usually a practical choice for small balconies, as you can stand them against a wall or put them away in a storage cupboard after use. Still, check their dimensions both open and folded. A balcony set with a table can work well if all the pieces fit together and leave enough room to move around.
Their lifespan depends on the type of wood, its finish, how often you use the chairs and how you store them. Check oiled acacia chairs regularly, re-oil them when needed and protect them from prolonged exposure to moisture. A protective cover or dry indoor storage over winter can reduce the amount of maintenance they need. Before each use, check for cracks, loose screws and damaged folding joints.
No. Weather-resistant garden chairs still need cleaning and suitable storage. Check metal surfaces for damage to the coating, care for wooden chairs with maintenance oil as needed, and make sure textiles are completely dry. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific care instructions, as materials, coatings and upholstery can all react differently.