The Best Outdoor Sofas for the Ultimate Backyard Setup

To create this list, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab fiber scientists considered the indoor furniture brands we have previously tested, outdoor sofas made with quality materials and weather-resistant finishes, and a range of styles at various price points to suit different outdoor set-ups. We review each product’s claims and listed materials and partner with the experts in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab to assess the construction of each outdoor sofa to find the most comfortable, durable, and stylish options for every type of space. Two of the sofas were also sent to the homes of consumer testers to try out and give us their feedback.

Attributes experts look for:

• Durability and weather resistance: We look for high-quality materials like powder-coated aluminum, teak, all-weather wicker, and performance fabrics that can withstand sun, rain, and humidity without fading, rusting, or deteriorating.
• Comfort and support: We assess factors like cushion firmness, seat depth, and overall ergonomics to ensure sofas are comfortable for both lounging and upright seating.
• Ease of care: We favor options with removable, washable cushion covers and materials that are designed to resist stains, moisture, and UV damage.
• Assembly and usability: We look for products that are easy to set up, move, and maintain over time.

If this is your first time purchasing an outdoor sofa—or you want a refresher on what to consider while browsing your options—Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine shares some shopping advice.

✔️ Cushion material: "The overwhelming majority of outdoor furniture cushions are made with synthetic fibers like polyester, acrylic, and olefin," says Constantine. These materials are water-resistant and thus able to withstand light showers, although heavier rainfall may result in damage. If you experience a lot of rain, look for cushions that also feature a water-resistant finish to better protect against wet weather.

Synthetic fibers in particular "also tend to hold onto color better than natural fibers, making them less likely to fade outside in the sun," adds Constantine. Generally, synthetic materials are better equipped to handle wear and tear.

✔️ Frame material: There are three main materials used to make the frame of an outdoor sofa: wood, metal, and wicker. Constantine delves into the advantages and disadvantages.

• Wood: Although chic, wood furniture is "more susceptible to decay and can lack the weather resistance of other materials," explains Constantine. That's why she recommends choosing a hardwood like teak, which is naturally weather-resistant. You can also "opt for wood covered in a weather-resistant finish to prevent the wood from being damaged," says Constantine. Although teak furniture can withstand the weather, former Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté recommends using Furniture Clinic's Teak Garden Furniture Kit, a GH Seal Star that comes with everything you need to nourish and protect teak furniture.
• Metal: Modern-looking metal furniture is typically made from aluminum or galvanized steel. Aluminum is lighter and easier to move around your patio. While it can resist rusting, it isn't as durable as galvanized steel. However, steel can hold heat, so your sofa frame may become hot to the touch during sunny days.
• Wicker: Traditionally, wicker is woven from natural materials like rattan or bamboo, explains Constantine. Nowadays, most wicker furniture is made from synthetic materials like vinyl or polyethylene (PE). These materials are already better suited for outdoor environments, but they can also be coated in a lacquer or resin finish for even better weather resistance, adds Constantine.

Elizabeth Berry is the former updates editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she collaborated with experts across our Labs to ensure all shopping guides reflect the most recent testing and pricing information. She has written on a variety of home categories, including the best small sofas, pool lounge chairs, and velvet couches.

This story was most recently updated by Senior Reviews Writer and Analyst Olivia Lipski, who frequently collaborates with the GH Textiles Lab.