If you’ve ever stepped into your backyard, taken one look at your weather-worn chairs or faded table, and thought, “It’s time for an upgrade,” you’re not alone.
Outdoor furniture isn’t just a bonus anymore; it’s an extension of your home. It sets the tone for everything from family BBQS to quiet coffee mornings. And if you’re ready to invest in something that looks great, lasts forever, and supports sustainability, Polywood should absolutely be on your radar.
This Polywood furniture buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you buy. We’ll help you make smart, stylish, and practical decisions.
Why Choose Polywood in the First Place?
Before looking at styles and setup tips, let’s talk about what makes Polywood furniture so special.
Polywood is made from recycled plastic, primarily milk jugs and detergent bottles. That means every piece is not only durable and low maintenance, but also eco-friendly. And because of the unique manufacturing process, Polywood furniture doesn’t warp, fade, crack, or peel like wood or metal. If you’ve ever dragged a wooden chair into the garage during a thunderstorm, you’ll appreciate what a difference that makes.
So if you’re wondering how to choose Polywood furniture that suits your needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic, keep reading.
Think About Function First
It’s tempting to jump right to colors and cushions, but the best place to start is with function. Ask yourself: How do you use your outdoor space?
Do you host big family dinners outside? Go for a sturdy dining set with plenty of seating. Are lazy afternoons with a good book more your style? Then, a couple of Adirondack chairs or a cozy glider might be all you need. Maybe your patio sees a bit of everything. In that case, modular lounge pieces offer flexibility without sacrificing comfort.
The point is, your furniture should work for your life. One of the strengths of Polywood is its versatility. A sprawling deck or a tiny urban balcony, there’s something that fits both the size and purpose of your space.
Consider the Climate You Live In
Outdoor furniture should be tough, especially if you live somewhere with extreme weather. The beauty of Polywood is that it holds up through it all—rain, sun, snow, or salty sea air.
Still, it’s good to be thoughtful about your specific needs. For example, if your area gets a lot of direct sunlight, lighter colors might stay cooler to the touch than darker ones. If you deal with wind, heavier pieces like a weighted dining table or anchored chaise loungers can make a huge difference. These are small but smart details you’ll be glad you thought of in the long run.
Mix and Match with Purpose
A solid Polywood patio furniture guide always includes a note about mixing styles—and doing it the right way. It’s totally okay to blend a classic bench with modern chairs, or throw a rustic table into a minimalist setup. But make sure there’s something that ties it all together, like a consistent color palette or a repeating shape.
Polywood makes this easy because their pieces are designed to be mix-and-match friendly. Collections like the Chippendale, Nautical, or Vineyard lines all have subtle design features that complement each other. Don’t be afraid to have fun with it—this is your space, after all.
Don’t Forget About Cushions and Accessories
Polywood furniture is great on its own, but cushions can take things to a whole new level in terms of comfort and style. Look for weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella that won’t fade in the sun or mildew in the rain.
Add in an outdoor rug to define the space, maybe some planters to frame your seating area, and don’t underestimate the power of a few throw pillows to add color and personality. These extras might seem small, but they help your space feel like a true outdoor room rather than just a collection of furniture on a slab of concrete.
Color Choices That Work Year After Year
One of the most effective tips for buying Polywood furniture is to stick with timeless colors for the bigger pieces and have fun with the accents. Black, white, slate gray, and teak are all classic shades that work with just about any backyard theme. You can then swap out accessories with the seasons or as your style changes.
If you’re feeling bold, though, Polywood does offer some fun color options—reds, blues, greens—that add an instant pop to your space. Just make sure it’s something you’ll still love a few years from now.
Maintenance? Practically None
Let’s be real: the last thing you want to do on a Saturday is scrub down your patio furniture. That’s why Polywood is such a win. Unlike wood, which needs regular sealing, staining, or painting, Polywood just needs a quick wash with soap and water. That’s it. It resists mold, mildew, and stains, which is especially helpful if you’re regularly entertaining or have kids and pets running around.
This ease of care makes it ideal for busy households or anyone who just wants to enjoy their outdoor space without worrying about upkeep.
Get the Most Out of Your Investment
Polywood furniture isn’t the cheapest out there, and that’s actually a good thing. When you invest in a set, you’re investing in decades of use, environmental responsibility, and a brand that stands behind its products. Many pieces come with warranties, and because they’re built to last, you’ll save money long-term by avoiding replacements every few years.
So if you’re browsing through listings and wondering if it’s worth it, yes, it absolutely is.
Final Thoughts
Buying outdoor furniture can feel overwhelming, but it really doesn’t have to be. Hopefully, this Polywood furniture buying guide helped you get a better feel for what to look for, how to style it, and how to make the most of your investment.
To recap: think about how you’ll use your space, choose durable and timeless pieces, and build from there with thoughtful touches and accessories. Whether you’re creating a peaceful solo retreat or an outdoor hub for entertaining, Polywood gives you the foundation to do it beautifully—and sustainably.
If you’re ready to improve your backyard with eco-conscious style and unbeatable durability, check out Spas of Colorado. We offer a full range of Polywood outdoor furniture and can help you find just the right pieces for your space. Have a look at our selection of Polywood furniture for sale today and start designing the outdoor space you’ve always wanted.
