A sunlounger is something more than just another furniture element in your outdoor space; it’s your very own sanctum where the hustle-bustle and routine noise of everyday life melt away into the open sky.
Visualize transforming one’s outdoors into a private oasis where one can retreat to and relax in perfect comfort in lazy, sun-drenched afternoon poolsides, peacefully reading under the dappled shade of one’s garden, or simply soaking in the warmth of a perfect summer’s day.
The following guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make this important choice so your outdoor retreat perfectly matches your idea of relaxation.
1. Assess Your Space and Needs
Before considering individual models and options, take a moment to reflect upon your outdoor space and what you envision using your sunlounger for.
You may have a large poolside patio that can host a few modern or even designer outdoor sunloungers, while a small balcony dictates something more constrained, such as folding sunloungers.
Take the time to measure your space, considering that you will want extra room to move around comfortably- two to three feet on all sides, preferably.
The use will also be a determining factor. Serious sunbathers will want full reclining capabilities, such as those provided by high-end outdoor sunloungers. If you expect to spend most of your time outdoors reading or working, you will likely prefer aluminum sunloungers with multiple adjustment positions. This will make for an easily configurable seating option that will allow for maximum comfort and flexibility.
If your space is multi-purpose or re-arranged regularly, consider how easily you will want to be able to move or store your sunlounger. Some modern wooden sun loungers have features that make them highly functional, easy to manage, and lend an air of natural elegance to any setting.
2. Choose the Right Material
The material of your sunlounger significantly impacts its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall appearance. Wood options, mainly teak and cedar, offer natural beauty and excellent durability.
Teak, while premium-priced, provides exceptional weather resistance and develops an attractive silvery patina over time. Cedar offers a more affordable alternative while maintaining good resistance to weather and insects.
Metal sunloungers, particularly those made from aluminum, combine durability with practicality. Aluminum materials resist rust, remain lightweight for easy movement, and require minimal maintenance. Steel variants offer superior stability but may require more careful maintenance to prevent rust, especially in coastal areas.
Plastic and resin sunloungers present budget-friendly options with surprising durability. Modern manufacturing techniques have improved their resistance to UV damage and fading, making them practical choices for frequent use. These materials also offer the broadest range of colors and styles.
3. Assess Sunlounger Styles
While variety guarantees a great style to suit every need, recliner sunloungers avail their versatility through multi-position settings. Their backrests are adjustable from upright reading to a full recline for sunbathing.
Folding sunloungers are practical for people with limited storage space or who frequently change locations with their furniture. Several models offer full lounging comfort in compact folding designs that can be easily stowed away during off-seasons or inclement weather.
Double sunloungers create intimate spaces for couples or provide generous individual areas for loungers. These wider models often incorporate features such as central drink holders or adjustable dual backrests for personalized comfort.
Original Hammock-style loungers take the conventional design and turn it more contemporary by adding gentle swaying motions that raise the relaxation bar. Many boast sturdy frames with a suspended seating surface that conforms to your body.
Daybed loungers are the epitome of indulgence outdoors, mostly with complete cushioning and canopies incorporated into their design. These larger-scale pieces can be inspiring focal points in your outdoor space while providing ultimate comfort and shade.
4. Comfort and Extra Features
Comfort encompasses more than just cushioning; it encompasses a range of features that make lounging worth it. Good cushioning should be thick enough, about 2-3 inches, with quick-drying materials and weather-resistant covers.
The adjustability mechanisms should operate smoothly yet lock securely into position. A good design allows various recline angles and height adjustments according to activities and user preference. Consider models with adjustable headrests or lumbar adjustments for greater comfort.
Most modern sun loungers have pragmatic associations that make their use rather practical. The wheels fitted on them help one change their position without compromising stability during use. An integrated cup holder and small storage provide easy access to essentials. Some models come with adjustable or removable canopies for flexible sun protection.
5. Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Different materials also have various maintenance needs. For example, wooden sunloungers require annual treatment with either wood sealant or oil for their finish to maintain and be resistant to weather elements. Metal furniture may require periodic hardware tightening and touching up of any scratches for rust prevention.
The weather resistance of the materials and methods of construction can be considerable. Look for metal components with powder-coated finishes, UV-stabilized materials for plastic and synthetic rattans, and marine-grade hardware on any folding mechanisms.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect sunlounger involves balancing comfort, durability, style, and practicality.
Consider what works best for your needs and space, and you’ll choose a piece that will help you enjoy years outdoors. Remember, quality often proves more economical in the long run, as superior materials and construction mean longer useful life and greater satisfaction.
The right sunlounger is much more than furniture; it is a personal key to enjoying the outdoors.
