These Stylish, Practical Garden Benches Will Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space (2024)

Why You Should Get It

  • The eye-catching curves and durable construction make a statement in your yard.

Keep in Mind

  • The bench is only available in natural teak wood.

Timeless yet statement-making with an impressive weight capacity of 500 pounds, our overall pick has a lot to love. First, the look: the ornate outline makes the bench stand out from the crowd, while the rolled armrests also offer comfort. Because of the slatted design, there’s no risk of water or anything else pooling on the seat.

The teak construction is a green flag because of the wood’s inherent durability (it makes sense that the bench can hold so much weight). While you can choose to maintain the natural golden look by periodically applying teak oil, you can also simply abstain if you prefer a gray patina to develop.

If you’re looking for any other color, however, you’re out of luck. Two sizes are available, so you can pick which is best for the size of your yard: 38.75 x 54.25 x 23.5 inches or 41 x 65.75 x 23.5 inches.

Product Details: Material: Teak | Dimensions: 38.75 x 54.25 x 23.5 inches (small) or 41 x 65.75 x 23.5 inches (large) | Seat height: 18 inches | Weight capacity: 500 pounds

Key Terms to Know

  • Powder coating: A durable finish for metal that starts as a dry powder and helps build resistance to friction, chemicals, abrasion, and more.
  • Polyethylene: The most popular type of plastic in consumer products, preferred because of how resistant it is to fading and chipping.

Why You Should Get It

  • This bench has an impressive weight capacity of 790 pounds.

Keep in Mind

  • You may see some wear-and-tear like dents and scratches over time.

At first glance, the standout feature of the Best Choice Products Outdoor Bench is the geometric design that you can snag in five cool colors: mint green, gray, peaco*ck blue, black, and rose red. But if weight capacity is a priority, this option can support up to 790 pounds.

The bench is made of alloy steel, known for being extra durable and easy to clean, with a weather resistant finish. It’s designed with a slatted seat, which is ideal for airflow (important on those hot summer days), though it doesn't include a cushion, so you may want to add one for comfort purposes.

Assembly, while required, is a simple three-step process. Though alloy steel is quite durable, you still may see some wear-and-tear like scratches and dents over time. Due to the price, it hopefully won’t be too painful if you need to replace it in a few years if that ends up being the case.

Product Details: Material: Steel | Dimensions: 50 x 33.75 x 26 inches | Seat height: 17 inches | Weight capacity: 790 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • The features a gently curved design that makes for an elegant touch to a garden.

Keep in Mind

  • Untreated teak will naturally patina to a silver cover, so make sure to treat it regularly to maintain its current color.

Frontgate's Portola bench is built to last, both in terms of materials and design. The sustainably harvested teak has been kiln-dried to prevent expansion or shrinkage due to moisture and is naturally resistant to mildew. It's also sanded and buffed smooth.

It will develop a natural gray-silver patina if you choose not to treat it, so keep that in mind if you prefer the original cover. The bench features gently curved lines that add an elegant touch to a garden. It has a natural light brown finish and doesn't come with any cushions, so you can either leave it as-is or add pillows as you see fit.

The slatted design offers ventilation on warm days while raised armrests make it an even more comfortable place to sit. While the bench is certainly a bit of a splurge, it's protected by a 10-year warranty that allows you to rest easy. If you're not happy with how it looks in your garden, however, you'll be able to return it within 90 days.

Product Details: Material: Teak | Dimensions: 60 x 29.5 x 24inches | Seat height: 14.25 inches | Weight capacity: Not listed

Why You Should Get It

  • The eucalyptus wood repels insects and water, protecting from damage.

Keep in Mind

  • The chair has a lower weight capacity in comparison to other benches on the market.

If you're furnishing a small space, Vifah's Wood Garden Bench is worth considering. The 4-foot bench is made of eucalyptus and features a geometric design on the seat back that'll add extra visual interest wherever it's placed.

The bench has a natural wood finish that's versatile and will work with any pillows or cushions you want to add. Plus, eucalyptus is a natural hardwood that repels both water and wood-eating insects, so it will be able to fend for itself in your yard and resist mold and mildew.

It's worth noting that the bench has a 300-pound weight capacity, which is lower than other options on this list. The compact, budget-friendly design comes with all the necessary hardware, so assembly will be easy. If you aren't satisfied with how it looks in your space, however, it comes with a 90-day return policy as well.

Product Details: Material: Eucalyptus | Dimensions: 48 x 34 x 24 inches | Seat height: 18 inches | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • The bench features an adjustable center table so you and a guest will have somewhere to place beverages and snacks while you lounge.

Keep in Mind

  • The bench doesn't include any cushions, so you'll have to buy them separately.

The Costway Metal Outdoor Bench with Adjustable Center Table is an excellent choice for entertaining outdoor party guests. The design can comfortably seat two people and has an adjustable table that's great for setting down beverages and light bites (or you can leave it down for extra seating room).

The powder-coated steel frame is both durable and sturdy and won't rust over time, so it won't require much maintenance to keep it in good condition. Plus, non-slip pads on the feet will keep you and your beverages solidly in place.

The bench, which is only offered in black, has simple lines that make it easy to match any garden style. Although it doesn't include any pillows or cushions, the curved back has a stylish design you may not want to cover up anyway.

Product Details: Material: Iron | Dimensions: 59.5 x 36 x 17 inches | Seat height: 16.5 inches | Weight capacity: 500 pounds (for bench), 25 pounds (for table)

Why You Should Get It

  • It's more subtle and stylish than most folding furniture.

Keep in Mind

  • No instructions are included, even though assembly is required.

Have a small yard that has to serve multiple functions? Live in an area with inclement weather that can wreak havoc on outdoor furniture? The Outsunny Foldable Garden Bench is just the ticket. Unless you look closely, no one would be able to tell it’s foldable.

Designed to hold two people with a capacity of 396 pounds yet still lightweight, you can easily tote the bench from outside to inside (and back outside again) whenever you want. Some assembly is required, and while most of it is pretty intuitive, no instructions are included.

The bench is made from poplar wood and you can opt for white or show off the grain with a natural finish. Either way, a clear varnish is applied so the bench is water-safe. The slatted seat and lattice design on the back aren’t just for aesthetics—they also promote airflow to keep you cool when it’s hot and help the bench dry off when it’s rainy.

Product Details: Material: Poplar | Dimensions: 35.5 x 47.5 x 21.75 inches | Seat height: 17.5 inches | Weight capacity: 396 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • Thoughtful details like anti-slip dots and a small ledge keep the cushions in place.

Keep in Mind

  • The wood is pre-stained, but Ikea recommends re-staining it regularly for maintenance.

Ikea's Bondholmen Loveseat is a compact, durable option made from eucalyptus wood. Unlike many other options on the market, it comes with cushions included at no additional cost. The cushions are offered in six neutral colors in two different styles, tufted or flat.

Whether you prefer a bold black option or a fresh white design, you'll be able to choose which matches your space best. Just keep in mind that the bench frame is only offered in a gray finish. The wood is pre-stained, but Ikea does recommend re-staining it periodically, making it a higher-maintenance pick.

There are plenty of thoughtful design touches to keep the bench comfortable, like a small edge at the back to keep cushions in place as well as anti-slip dots on the undersides of the cushions. The cushions themselves are also water-repellent, fade-resistant, and machine-washable, so you don't need to fuss over them.

The back of the bench features a diamond-like design that'll make a statement if you opt to forgo the cushions. Even better, excluding the hardware, Ikea's outdoor products are all made of renewable materials—more than 98% of Ikea's wood is either recycled or FSC-certified, meaning it comes from a responsibly managed forest.

Product Details: Material: Eucalyptus | Dimensions: 54.75 x 31.88 x 35.63 inches | Seat height: 17.38 inches | Weight capacity: Not listed

Why You Should Get It

  • Each material making up this versatile design is purposefully selected and treated to maximize durability.

Keep in Mind

  • White is the only cushion color, and some may prefer a darker option.

Turn your yard into a calming oasis with the Better Homes & Gardens Davenport Outdoor Loveseat Glider Bench. The wicker portion looks convincingly natural but is actually made from a woven high-density polyethylene that’s perfect for all weather types.

On top are a set of UV protected cushions that have everything going for them: they’re made of 50% recycled fabric and resistant to water, stains, and fading. Just as thoughtfully designed was the steel frame made rust resistant thanks to the powder coated finish.

Worth pointing out—although the cushions are resistant to the elements, they’re only available in white, and some may prefer being able to pick a darker color as extra insurance against stains. Each “seat” has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, making the bench’s total weight capacity 500 pounds.

Product Details: Material: Polyester, acacia wood, steel, and polyethylene | Dimensions: 47 x 28.75 x 19.30 inches | Seat height: Not listed | Weight capacity: 250 pounds per seat (500 total)

Why You Should Get It

  • The acacia wood is both beautiful and durable, while the diagonal slats on the sides help the interior breathe without weather exposure.

Keep in Mind

  • Some users find certain parts of assembly tricky despite the instruction manual.

The Costway 47 Gallon Deck Storage Bench is made out of acacia wood, which is known for both its durability and beauty. It not only elevates your outdoor space—you can also depend on it to last for the long haul. The teak oil coating is the perfect finishing touch that highlights the gorgeous natural grain while protecting the wood.

It can fit up to two people and hold up to 355 pounds, while the interior offers 47 gallons of storage. Instead of being slatted on the top like many over garden benches on our list, it has diagonal slats on the sides, allowing the interior to “breathe” and minimize odor without risking the items in storage being exposed to the elements.

To clean, all you have to do is wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Step-by-step instructions are included, but some users do find certain parts Some users find certain parts of assembly tricky despite the instruction manual.of assembly tricky.

Product Details: Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 47.5 x 17.5 x 17.5 inches | Seat height: 17.5 inches | Weight capacity: 355 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • It pulls double duty as both a garden bench and a glider.

Keep in Mind

  • It may not be as comfortable as other options without a cushion due to the large space between slats.

The Payhere Outdoor Glider Garden Bench in cast iron is sleek and simple, making it a versatile option for all kinds of design styles.A high back and curved armrests both promote comfort, while the powder-coated finish is rust-resistant.

The maximum recommended capacity is on the low side, being only 300 pounds. The bench is very affordable, especially considering how elegant it looks. At that price, you’ll want to add one to your front porch and deck as well.

This may not be the most comfortable option considering the wide space between slats, but you can always purchase a cushion separately to add some padding.

Product Details: Material: Steel and cast iron | Dimensions: 50 x 33.5 x 26.9 inches | Seat height: 16 inches | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • This all-weather storage bench is comfortable with a contoured back and can hold outdoor essentials.

Keep in Mind

  • The 23-gallon storage area isn’t as deep as some would like.

The Suncast Elements Resin Outdoor Bench stands out for durability—designed for all weather conditions, it’s easy to clean (all you need is a dry cloth) and can resist warping, stains, rust, and dents. The wicker pattern is timeless, adding an elevated touch to a resin bench, and you can choose from white and brown.

Another thoughtful detail is the contoured back, which is much more comfortable than one that’s straight and upright. With 23 gallons of storage, the bench can hold outdoor essentials like pool toys and beach towels, but some users wish it were deeper so it could store a few cushions. It can also hold up to 450 pounds on the seat.

Product Details: Material: Resin | Dimensions: 35.5 x 47 x 29.75 inches | Seat height: 17 inches | Weight capacity: 450 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • This bench is made from a powder-coated aluminum that has all the texture and variation of natural wicker.

Keep in Mind

  • The low back may feel awkward depending on your height.

Serena & Lily is known for offering the perfect combination of style and substance, making the Pacifica Bench a great option for an elevated garden space. The sleek silhouette is made out of durable powder-coated aluminum that mimics the wicker in texture and variation, like a modern interpretation of the material.

The design includes a low back that doesn’t support the upper back, which could feel awkward and uncomfortable, especially if you’re on the taller side. Though a coordinating performance fabric cushion is available, it is separate and doesn’t come cheap.

There’s plenty of other furniture in the Pacifica collection to decorate your yard with if you'd like to complete the set, including chaises and sectionals.

Product Details: Material: Powder coated aluminum | Dimensions: 58 x 28 x 20 inches | Seat height: 16.5 inches | Weight capacity: Not listed

Why You Should Get It

  • The 26 pound bench is lightweight enough to move around if you'd like to shift locations or store it for the winter.

Keep in Mind

  • The finish may show scratches more easily than some other models.

For a steel option, the best garden bench is the Goplus Black Steel Garden Bench. The lightweight pick features a geometric design and a PVC mesh backing for the ideal combination of style and comfort. The bench is offered in black and doesn't come with any cushions, so you'll have to purchase them separately.

However, just be sure you don't block the bench's diamond-pattern backing, which offers a decorative touch wherever you place it. At just under 26 pounds the bench is fairly lightweight, so it'll be easy to move around if you decide to remodel or just need to catch the sunniest spot.

Wherever you place it, the backrest is ergonomically designed and the bench features rounded armrests, so two people can comfortably sit. And since it's less expensive compared to other picks, you can even buy more than one and create a conversation set if you have a larger outdoor space.

Product Details: Material: Steel | Dimensions: 45.5 x 29.5 x 19.5 inches | Seat height: 16.5 inches | Weight capacity: 618 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • The frame and seat colors are both customizable for creative design opportunities.

Keep in Mind

  • The back is at an angle, which may not be comfortable for some.

Timeless yet modern, the Joss & Main Kismet Outdoor Bench is designed with a sleek acacia wood frame and a woven rope backrest and cushion. You can choose between three frame colors (black, gray, and natural) and four seat colors (black, brown, gray, and white) to match your outdoor decor.

The bench is easily portable thanks to its folding construction, allowing you to take the lightweight piece wherever you need to, even indoors as extra seating. If you’re looking to furnish the rest of the yard, you can snag the matching sofa seating group or multiple chairs seating group.

The slanted back is a part of the contemporary design, but it can definitely be less functional and comfortable than a straight one. Adding a pillow should help provide adequate back support.

Product Details: Material: Acacia and woven rope | Dimensions: 45.47 x 30.12x 29.92inches | Seat height: 19.69 inches | Weight capacity: 705.48 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • The bench is inspired by the classic farmhouse table and can also be used indoors.

Keep in Mind

  • Without a back, the bench doesn’t offer any lumbar support.

There’s nothing more aligned with the farmhouse aesthetic than a farmhouse table, which the Backyard Discover Farmhouse Garden Bench emulates. You’ll notice intentional imperfections throughout the piece to add to the rustic style.

It’s made from durable, weather resistant Meranti wood in a versatile walnut shade. You can fit two people on it (up to 600 pounds), yet it’s very lightweight so you can move it around the yard with ease. To keep the bench looking its best, all you need to do is apply an oil-based stain and sealant once a year to protect the wood.

Part of what makes this one of the best garden benches is how it looks just at home indoors as it does outdoors. You could even use it to hold pots and other garden accessories. The one con is that not having a back means you’re lacking some support while sitting.

Product Details: Material: Meranti | Dimensions: 46.25 x 18.13 x 13.25 inches | Seat height: 18.13 inches | Weight capacity: 600 pounds

Why You Should Get It

  • This interesting bench is also a glider and comes in three color combinations.

Keep in Mind

  • Tall people might have to be careful when sitting down so they don’t hit their heads.

A little bit retro and a little bit boho, the Pocassy 2-Seat Wicker Egg Chair takes center stage. The frame is made out of steel with polyethylene wicker hand-woven around it. Because it’s waterproof, rust-proof, and UV-resistant, you can leave it outside when harsh weather hits.

Everyone loves options, and this bench offers three of them: dark gray with gray cushions, gray with blue cushions, and yellow with beige cushions. The ability to silently glide back and forth takes relaxation to the next level. The weight capacity is 250 pounds per seat, or 500 pounds total.

Especially tall people may consider the shape a drawback because they have to be careful not to hit their heads on the top of the frame. If you do need to clean the bench, all you need is warm water, gentle soap, and a soft cloth.

Product Details: Material: Steel, polyethylene, and polyester | Dimensions: 54 x 58 x 32 inches | Seat height: 20 inches | Weight capacity: 250 pounds per seat (500 pounds total)

Why You Should Get It

  • This stylish bench is designed with classic diagonal wicker in four colors.

Keep in Mind

  • The slatted seat is likely to expose stored items to rain or snow if the bench is uncovered.

The stylish Lark Manor Angelah Wicker Bench pulls double duty as storage—14.13 x 39 x 13.5 inches of storage, to be specific. This is enough to hold bulky items like sports equipment or cushions. It’s important to know that, because the seat is slatted, the stored items will likely be exposed to rain, snow, and other elements.

The classic look blends in with a number of different aesthetics, and the four color choices (blue, black, gray, and yellow) help with this as well. Though the diagonal wicker appears to be made out of wood, it’s actually plastic while the frame is aluminum.

The bench as a whole is able to resist fading, fire, scratches, and water, so you can expose it to the elements without stressing. It can hold up to two people and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.

Product Details: Material: Plastic and aluminum | Dimensions: 16.13 x 41 x 20.88 inches | Seat height: 20.87 inches | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

The Bottom Line

Overall, we recommend the Birch Lane Bea Teak Outdoor Bench because it's made of teak, a durable material that can withstand the outdoor elements. Plus, it has a decorative, curved design that'll make a statement in an outdoor space.

For a less expensive option, consider the Best Products Outdoor Bench. The alloy steel design has a simple, versatile style and is lightweight, so it's easy to move around your garden if you need to.

What to Know About Garden Benches Before Shopping

Size

The first thing to consider when shopping for a garden bench is how much space you can dedicate to it. Measure where you'd like to place the bench before you start to browse.

“They also offer different seat depths, so definitely consider how you want to use your bench—whether you want to have a small perch for a quick rest, or ample space for lounging around,” Neveln advises.

In addition, you should consider how many people you'd like to be able to sit on the bench at one time. Some retailers will even allow you to filter by size online, so you can choose between options that'll work for you.

Weight Capacity

Since a bench will likely seat at least two people, you'll want to ensure it can do so safely. While you shop, double check that the bench has a high weight capacity. Though the average is usually 400 to 500 pounds, this will vary.

The Best Choice Products Outdoor Bench, Goplus Black Steel Garden Bench, Joss & Main Kismet Outdoor Bench, and Backyard Discovery Farmhouse Garden Bench on this list can support more than 500 pounds. On the smaller end, you’ll see benches in the 200 pound range.

Material

Garden benches often come in wood, plastic, steel, and iron. Each offers its own benefits, but the most important quality to consider is the ability to withstand the elements. “Also keep in mind how easy a bench’s material will be to clean, because dirt and other stains are inevitable,” Neveln says.

When it comes to wood, teak and eucalyptus are common as they offer qualities that make them long-lasting. The Birch Lane Bea Teak Outdoor Bench and Frontgate Portola Garden Bench are made of teak, which will patina over time.

Eucalyptus—found in the Vifah 4-Foot Wood Garden Bench and Ikea Bondholmen Loveseat—is often praised for being resistant to mold, mildew, and insects.

Metal options like the Best Choice Products Outdoor Bench and Goplus Black Steel Garden Bench, offer a more industrial look, and many are made with a protective coating to fend off rust. They do tend to be heavier, however, so keep that in mind for assembly.

According to Neveln, weight “can also be an important consideration if you want to be able to move the bench around easily.”

Your Questions, Answered

What is the most durable material for a garden bench?

Neveln says that most garden benches are designed to be used outdoors—meaning they’re made with materials that can withstand prolonged heat, cold, and wetness for several years. “Of course, some materials such as metal and resin tend to be more durable and long-lasting than wood,” she adds.

Can you place a garden bench on grass?

“If you want to put a garden bench on the lawn, pay attention to the legs on the piece,” Neveln advises. “Narrow footprints may sink into the soil over time, so something with a wider footprint may be a better choice.”

For example, the Costway Metal Outdoor Bench should be kept off the grass, while the Costway 47 Gallon Deck Storage Bench has larger footprints.

How do you weather-proof a wooden garden bench?

Here’s the good news: most woods commonly used to make garden benches are pretty weather-resistant. If you want to give your new garden bench extra protection, the steps are simple: give it a good cleaning, sand off the current finish, and apply a clear waterproofing stain.

Who We Are

Quincy Bulin is a writer who covers products and home, making this story the ideal intersection of her work. To make this list, she spent many hours researching thermostats with consideration to dimensions, control type, type, and more. We also consulted with Robin Antill, home decorator, remodeler, and director of Leisure Buildings. She also consulted with Viveka Neveln, Senior Garden Editor at Better Homes & Gardens.

These Stylish, Practical Garden Benches Will Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space (2024)
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