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The Plastic Garden Furniture Buying Guide

Plastic might not be your first choice for patio sets due to the material being seen as ‘weak’, but it’s time to rethink that perspective! Plastic garden furniture has come a long way in recent years and might just be your new go-to pick. Here’s how this outdoor piece has its way back to people’s hearts.

Today’s Plastic Garden Furniture

At first, plastic furniture was viewed as cheap and unattractive, but that perception is no longer the case. As technology advanced, so did the construction of sets made from this material, from quality to design. Manufacturers started using materials like polyethene (PE) and resin, making furniture more durable and weather-resistant. All the good stuff while keeping it the most affordable option without compromising quality.

With a wider range of colours and styles today, plastic garden furniture is more appealing than ever! It’s safe to say that manufacturers are committed to meeting the demands of modern consumers—and will continue to do so moving forward.

Many Names, One Raw Material

The most common materials used in plastic garden furniture are:

  • Polypropylene (PP): A strong, flexible thermoplastic polymer. It’s known for its high stiffness, strength, and chemical resistance. PP garden chairs, for instance, are lightweight, easy to clean, and can withstand severe temperatures. They’re also recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.
  • Polyethene (PE): Known for its durability and resistance to impact and temperature changes. A popular variety is high-density polyethene (HDPE). HDPE is highly resistant to corrosive substances, insects, oil and fuel, salt spray, and other environmental stresses.

The rest of the options include models made from polyrattan and plywood, which are synthetic materials. Polyrattan is made from HDPE woven into a rattan-like pattern, while polywood is a type of plastic lumber made from recycled plastic. Both offer a sustainable alternative to traditional rattan and wood furniture.

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To see these materials in action, check out our selection of plastic furniture below:

Sölback Grey Bistro Set

Sölback Grey Bistro Set

Spruce up your patio with this compact, HDPE-made scandi-inspired bistro set. Its simple, minimalist design is a great match for modern gardens, and the muted colour works well in traditional settings, too.

Don’t let the small size fool you—the compact table is just the perfect size for outdoor dining for two. With a strong, rust-free aluminium frame, you can enjoy al fresco meals for years to come!

BillyOh 6ft Heavy Duty Plastic Folding Outdoor Trestle Table

BillyOh 6ft Heavy Duty Plastic Folding Outdoor Trestle Table

Here, we present an all-around table with a wide variety of uses, both indoors and outdoors. The HDPE tabletop is resistant to stains, and the steel framework is powder-coated. The legs lock into place to ensure the table doesn’t fold during use. It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to move around.

Need to dress it up for a special occasion? Just throw on a tablecloth, place a vase at the centre for some flair, and you’re all set! It’s a timeless piece, perfect for all sorts of occasions.

Plastic garden tables can also be a nice, lightweight option to hold food and drinks during a garden party.

Bjørn Adirondack Chair

Bjørn Adirondack Chair

The Bjørn Adirondack chair is a great way to add a modern vibe to your outdoor space. Its reclined seat and wide armrests make it perfect for kicking back and relaxing.

Made from tough HDPE, it can handle any kind of weather and barely needs any maintenance. It’s built to last and is an easy, eco-friendly option for your outdoor seating.

Check out our full selection of plastic garden chairs.

Plastic Garden Sun Lounger

Adjustable Sun Lounger

Relaxing in the sunshine has never been easier with this sun lounger. Built with an adjustable backrest, it adds serious comfort to your garden. No need to worry about leaving it out in the sun—it’s made from UV-resistant materials, so it won’t fade, even after years of exposure. Guaranteed!

Whether you’re into the sleek, minimalist black or rustic grey finish, this lounger lets you choose the look that suits your style. You can personalise it even further by selecting from a number of garden cushions.

Look at those designs! You wouldn’t think they’re made from plastic at first glance. If you want more options, browse through our plastic garden furniture for sale. We have more sets that will look fantastic in your outdoor space.

Up next on your reading list: How to Protect Garden Furniture from Sun Exposure