48 Outdoor Essentials To Transform Your Backyard Into Something Out Of A Magazine

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4 days ago

A pair of outdoor Bluetooth speakers that'll double as flickering torch lanterns, because music is great, but music with ambiance is even better. They're waterproof (bring on those showers), sync together for surround sound, and given serious "cozy evening under the string lights" energy.
Promising review: "I ordered waterproof speakers so I could sit outside, and I'm so glad I found these. They're perfect for what I needed because they are similar to tiki torch lights that are already planted. They give off a nice ambiance when sitting out back, and the sound is loud but not too loud to disturb neighbors. Bluetooth connection is easy. So far, so good, and I'm satisfied with my purchase." —applefirGet it from Amazon for $69.99.
A pack of four plant supporters because some plants just need extra help staying upright. Bonus points because the metal is powder-coated green, which camouflages well.
A set of metal hanging flower pots so you can have fresh flowers or herbs, regardless of whether you have a plot of dirt to grow them in. Each set includes 10 planters, so you can plant different types of flowers, herbs, and other greenery to really make a big visual impact.
A set of giant wooden dice with a matching bucket to make your backyard feel like summer camp, minus the bug bites. You get six jumbo dice, a wooden bucket, and scorecards for games like Yardzee and Farkle — basically everything you need to entertain friends, kids, or very competitive grandparents.
A colorful three-piece patio set if you're dealing with limited space but want a cozy place to enjoy your morning cup of joe or a meal al fresco. The bright color will create a nice focal point in an otherwise drab area of your outdoor space.
Promising review: "This set was just what I needed to add a pop of color to my porch. It seems sturdy and tolerant of extreme weather conditions. My friends and neighbors love the bright yellow." —Judith J. Get it from Amazon for $109.99+ (available in five colors).
Or a three-piece folding wood bistro set that comes with the cushions. This is such a timeless look; you can put this anywhere and it's sure to look amazing.
Promising review: "I recently moved and have a small front patio. The rules of the complex are neutral as far as furniture is concerned. And so I spent forever looking for something that would fit the color scheme, plus be cute and comfortable. I am so so happy with this purchase. The table and chairs are not only a good size, but they are tall! I myself am almost 6 foot tall, and to not have to lean over with a patio set is really cool. The cushions are very comfortable, and the setup was extremely easy. Highly recommend." —Ashley kGet it from Amazon for $109.99+ (available in three colors).
A crack weeder tool to make your pathways, driveways, and patios like new again. The uniquely shaped head allows the tool to fit into tight cracks and grab weeds by the roots for easy removal.
A tabletop firepit because your outdoor space may be small, but your s'mores game? Absolutely not. This compact tabletop firepit burns wood or pellets with barely any smoke, so you get the ambience of a campfire without smelling like one.
A pack of wildflower seeds to turn a sad patch of dirt into a butterfly-and-hummingbird buffet. You get over 30,000 seeds (!!!) across 23 varieties, so even if half of them ghost you, you'll still end up with a bloom-filled backyard.
Seed Needs is a family-owned small business in Michigan that makes seed packets. Promising review: "I bought this package hoping to attract butterflies. It did not disappoint. I have the opposite of a green thumb, and this was super easy. I couldn't tell you the names of any flowers, but we have at least six different types. I overseeded a smaller area, so I will probably make the area larger or only do half the seeds next year. We can go outside at any time and see our beautiful flowers and SO many butterflies! 10/10" —Tesa TaylorGet it from Amazon for $5+ (available in four mixes and two sizes).
A six-piece outdoor furniture set that'll make your backyard look like it belongs in a magazine. The metal frame is super durable, the cushions are water-resistant and easy to remove, and you won't have to stress when someone drips pool water or a surprise shower rolls through.
Promising review: "I couldn't be happier with this set. It's stylish, comfortable, and surprisingly sturdy. The cushions are thick and supportive, and the frame feels durable enough to last through different seasons. It fits perfectly on our patio and has become our go-to spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Assembly was simple, and the overall quality exceeded my expectations for the price. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor seating!" —Fab mamaas Get it from Amazon for $990.89+ (available in nine set sizes and six colors).
A pack of solar-powered garden lights to turn your yard into a wind-powered light show. They charge during the day and glow at night, no plugs or switches required.
A fully insulated, aesthetically pleasing cooler that'll be the hit of any backyard bbq you host. With a 45-quart capacity, it can hold all your favorite bevvies — because no one likes running inside for refills. It's got a built-in bottle opener, a drainage spout for easy cleanup, and a lid you can pop open for quick grabs or shut tight to keep things frosty.
A retro-esque umbrella to add some old Hollywood energy to your outdoor space. Most patio umbrellas have a simple design and are a solid color, but they don't have to be that way! Use this instead to really up the glam.
Or a fade-resistant outdoor umbrella so you can relax without worrying about harmful UV rays. (But remember to always wear sunscreen when your skin's exposed to the sun!) It's got a diameter of 7.5 feet, which can provide shade for a small table and three or four chairs.
Note: The umbrella stand is not included, but this is a good one if you need one. Promising review: "This umbrella was perfect and met my needs. I live in a condo and needed a way to shade the balcony from the intense morning sun. This worked really well. The setup was easy. The crank works well ,and the tilt is easy to do." —DanielleGet it from Amazon for $35.74+ (available in 15 colors and patterns).
And a clip-on light for your umbrella, because sometimes a great day on your balcony turns into a great night, and you want to make sure you have the proper illumination.
An ivy privacy screen that'll make your fence, balcony, or unsightly wall look like it belongs in a secret garden instead of a parking lot. Using this is an easy way to add a little greenery and have a lot of coverage, all without having to plant a single thing.
Promising review: "This is a great product for any outdoor space. It provides extra privacy whilst adding beauty to my balcony. The leaves were all intact and it was easy to install with the zip ties that came in the box. The fence has been stable, never falling down nor loosening its grip. During rain, I've never experienced the leaves coming off/apart. If you're looking to spice up your outdoor area with faux greenery, this product is a great quality fence and highly recommend!" —C.C. Get it from Amazon for $69.99.
A quilted hammock with a detachable pillow so you take a long nap in your own backyard. Each hammock can hold up to 450 pounds, so grab a loved one and get to snuggling.
You can get the canopy here and the stand here!What's included: One pillow, two chains, and two S-shaped hooks.Promising review: "There is nothing more comfortable than being cradled and rocked in a hammock that is comfortable with its padded quilted canvas, built-in pillow, and the size built for two. The craftsmanship and anchors give you a secure feeling." —Just.Rob.StoneGet it from Amazon for $69.89+ (available in seven colors).
A wall-mounted outdoor fan to keep your patio breezy and comfortable, even during heat waves. It frees up floor space, angles exactly where you want it, and actually makes a difference when the sun's doing the most. Bonus points if it helps keep the bugs away, too.
An inflatable pool so you can take a dip whenever you please. No packing a bag and heading to the local pool required. It has a built-in bench and a couple of cupholders, too!
And a dog/kiddie pool so the tiny tots and furry friends in your life have a safe spot to splash, too. This folds up for easy storage when not in use and doesn't need to be inflated to work.
Some bamboo wind chimes to bring some zen vibes to your outdoor space. When it moves, the bamboo produces deep, soothing tones that'll blend nicely with nature's soundtrack. No batteries, no wires, just peaceful background music you didn't have to find via a playlist.
Promising review: "Was actually a little bigger than I expected to be for the price. Beautiful and well worth the money. Sounds beautiful." —Ashleigh Yates Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes).
A pack of solar-powered path lights that stick right into the ground and automatically turn when the sun sets. Because they're powered by the sun, you never need to worry about running out of battery or turning them on at night.
Promising review: "These are great lights, we use them in our front and backyard. They are long lasting and create a resort-like appearance." —Michele Get it from Amazon for $32.93+ (available in packs of four or eight).
A garden bench because folks need a beautiful place to sit. Whether strategically placed on your porch or plopped down in the middle of your garden, it's sure to turn heads with its unique design and available colors.
Promising review: "Its sturdy construction and classic design make it a standout piece for any patio. The robust cast-iron and steel frame ensure longevity, while the generous size accommodates comfortable seating. Elevate your outdoor space with this timeless and reliable garden bench." —Zhang_ShawnGet it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in six colors).
A chic black and white outdoor rug to instantly transform your backyard into the "after" shot on an HGTV backyard makeover show. Not only does it add a touch of pizzazz to your outdoor space, but it's also made from durable materials designed to withstand the elements.
Promising review: "Delivered exactly as described. This is a really beautiful outdoor rug that adds coziness and pop to my deck. I put heavy items around the perimeter of the rug for a day to help flatten the edges. Great price for a great quality rug." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $37+ (available in 14 sizes and three colors).
A canopy swing that rocks and swings *and* provides you with shade on extra sunny days. It's zero gravity, so you'll feel weightless when you're all tucked in.
Some waterproof and shatterproof solar-powered outdoor string lights to turn your backyard into a whimsical nighttime oasis. Perfect for draping over trees, winding around railings, or highlighting the edges of your outdoor living space.
Brightech is a small business in Los Angeles that sells indoor and outdoor lighting for the home.Promising review (from February 2023): "I have had these lights up since the end of September 2022. They lit up right out of the box. They have been through a snowstorm, ice storm, and massive rain, and are still perfect. They are pretty easy to hang. They are shatterproof, which I love. —D KellyGet it from Brightech on Amazon for $34.99.
Some interlocking teak tiles if you want to easily upgrade your patio. No tools or glue are required, the tiles just snap together. Teak is also a preferred wood for all outdoor stuff because of its ability to survive through all types of weather. It is one of the few woods around that contains a natural oil which repels water.
Bare Decor is a small business that sells teak tiles and accessories for outdoor spaces. Promising review: "Living in Hawaii, you have to select wise items that are weather-, salt-, and red dirt–proof, etc... In total I ordered 11 boxes to complete my yoga deck. I have a few left over to make steps on the back. Very pleased and happy. May order more for an outdoor shower project!" —AdazzleGet 10 sq. ft from Amazon for $81.99.
A two-burner griddle grill to make sure you have a delicious spread of food every time you host a meal al fresco. No need to hurry into the house to get to cooking — with this you can stay outside with your pals and enjoy what's going on.
Promising review: "My whole family and I recently went to Miami for a quick vacation, and we had a barbecue, so I decided to order this grill for my house so I can cook on my back porch. One of the best things about this grill is it's so easy to move — anyone can move it from one place to another. My wife and I assembled this, and it took us about 35–40 minutes to put together. It was so easy to assemble. I cannot wait to use this grill with my family and friends." —NPGet it from Amazon for $189.99.
A weed killer kit that'll help your backyard look fresh and well-kept, not like it's being overtaken by moss and mystery weeds. Just fill the reusable pouch with water, attach the sprayer wand, and let the fast-acting formula go to work. It targets weeds, algae, and scraggly grass in as little as 20 minutes.
Promising review: "My new flowerbed had some Bermuda grass coming up through the weed guard paper, but not anymore. I watched it wilt within 30 minutes of application. I pulled the dead grass the next morning. Other weeds I hit in the flowerbed were much easier to pull than weeds I didn't hit with the weed warrior. It worked better and faster than the other weed killers I have used. Now my flowerbeds can stay grass- and weed-free." —Neeci "This worked as advertised. Love that it's not using harsh chemicals, too. I have kids that love to play outside and wrestle and flip all over the yard, so it's nice knowing they can do so in a safe environment instead of among a ton of chemicals." —Weslee H. Get the kit from Sunday for $27 (originally $54). And with summer's heat officially here, consider Sunday's Heat Defense Kit.
A pack of waterproof playing cards to keep yourself occupied during those lazy days. No need to worry about drink spills or sudden rain. Just wipe down, and voila! They're like new.
Promising review: "These playing cards are a HIT. I take them out with me for social events and when visiting people, even to the beach. We just play and play. So you can get them wet and they won't soggy up and tear it just become a little hard to shuffle. It is so cool that they look like you can see right straight through them but you can't." —TabithaGet them from Amazon for $6.97.
An outdoor wooden double chaise lounge specifically designed for tiny tots, though folks have figured out they work great for dogs too.
A simple outdoor plant stand to elevate (figuratively and aesthetically) your favorite potted plant. This stand holds up to 60 pounds and will keep your planter off the ground, which is necessary if you use one that has drainage holes.
Promising review: "This plant stand is elegant looking and plenty sturdy for large plants. I will be purchasing more. It is simple to assemble — just screw on the legs!" —Grace MartinGet it from Amazon for $6.99.
Or a pack of five outdoor plant stands of various heights so each one of your plant children has an opportunity to shine. Plant stylists say putting plants into groups of three, five, or seven is the visual sweet spot, so this is a win-win.
Promising review: "This was a great pack! Five plant stands. You can mix any of the tops with the legs of different varying heights. I needed this option to put them all in front of my bay window so my plants could get some winter sun. I needed a short, large top stand as well as a tall, small top stand. And the little stoppers on the feet keep them from sliding or knocking over when the cats decide to play." —Thrifty but not cheap Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
A potting bench to keep everything you need to grow your garden in one place. The tabletop can hold up to 220 pounds, and the bottom shelf and cabinet can handle up to 176 pounds. There's also three metal hooks on the right side for hanging gardening tools. This bench really is a one-stop shop.
Promising review: "Great value for the $$ and attractive! Looks great on my back porch area and a nice place to store all my planting supplies. The metal countertop is a nice touch, as it's easy to wipe down and gives it a bit of a rustic look. I would highly recommend and buy it again!" —Staci Evans Get it from Amazon for $125.99.
A pair of stainless-steel gardening shears for clipping cuttings and deadheading your outdoor foliage. Folks say they're lightweight and easy to use, and despite their size, can cut through really thick, tough stems.
A hanging hammock chair, because sometimes you just need a main character moment and this is the chair that'll give it to you.
A sleek three-piece rocking chair set so you can spend lazy days comfortably sitting on your porch for hours. Soon, you'll be spending more time outdoors than in, so it's essential to have a nice place to sit back and relax.
Promising review: "This set is beautiful, good quality — especially for the price and so sleek and bold looking! I ordered this twice because I was so thrilled with the first set I ordered!" —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $114.99.
A portable 100-inch movie screen for hosting an outdoor movie night. Now that so many movies are premiering on streaming services instead of exclusively in theaters, you can have your own red carpet opening night (ball gowns and tuxedos optional).
A triangular sail to block harmful UV rays and also provide you with necessary shade. A simple way to create a relaxing area.
The corners of the sails have D rings so you can attach them to whatever you'd like with your choice of hardware or rope.Promising review: "Purchased this to increase privacy and provide some shade. The color is vibrant, hasn't faded, and the loops are well-stitched. The sail has also fared well in winds, thunderstorms, monsoon rain, and the brutal heat of Vegas. Shade is wonderful and one can definitely feel the temperature difference from full sun to being under this sail. The look and feel compliments our pool area and will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC MediaGet it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in a variety of sizes and 16 colors/patterns).
A gas fire pit table so you can keep the vibes going on outside after the sun goes down. It comes with a glass lid, so when the fire's not in use it can be used as a table.
Promising review: "My favorite purchase for our deck. I LOVE this fire table. Good size, great value compared to what is out there. Packaged nicely. My husband put together alone in 30–45 minutes with no frustration and easy to follow directions. Puts out a decent amount of heat. Enough rocks to adequately cover. Just add your propane tank. I love that it has a lid as well. You will find sturdier fire tables, but not at this price. Excellent value." —BelliumGet it from Amazon for $199.99 (available in two sizes).
A set of eight solar-powered jar lanterns filled with string lights to create a whimsical outdoor experience every time the sun goes down. The battery life can be maintained for more than 500 cycles of charging, so these will be the star of the show for at least a few seasons.
A wooden privacy screen with planters at the bottom so you can hide away unsightly things. This will easily disguise the garbage cans or your giant air-conditioning unit, or provide privacy if you have nosy neighbors.
Promising review: "We have a small patio close to a grassy area where the neighborhood dogs do their business — so annoying and smelly — so we needed a way to get lots of florals in while also providing some privacy. These are perfect and hold lots of florals; the ivy I have is already beginning to climb the trellis, and they're sturdy!! We live in a windy area, and so far, they haven't budged. Also, so, so easy to put together!! Took us less than a half hour probably." —JessicaGet it from Amazon for $76.49+ (available in two sizes).
A wildlife ring fire pit if loving the great outdoors is part of your personality. Soooo many fire pit designs are an afterthought, so try this one if you want to add a little oomph.
FiveMetalDesign is a Wisconsin-based small business creating metal ring fire pits featuring intricate designs. Promising review: "This is EVERYTHING they said it would be. Always hard to tell if something will look as amazing as the picture. In this case it's as great or better than the picture. Fast delivery, great friendly service! I highly recommend this company. Best purchase yet on Etsy!" —pjmklm2004 Get it from FiveMetalDesign on Etsy for $196+ (available in four sizes).
A small wicker couch and matching ottoman with storage to provide you and your bestie with a comfortable place to sit when you're enjoying a cocktail at sunset.
A waterproof outdoor curtain to either partition off space in your outdoor space or provide you with some privacy, like if your balcony looks directly onto someone else's balcony or something unsightly.
Some solar-powered stair lights that'll keep your stairs from turning into a tripping hazard after dark. They're waterproof, they charge themselves (bless), and they'll make your stairs look like the runway your guests deserve.
Promising review: "Where I live, it's so dark and I have no outside electricity off my screened-in deck. I wanted lights for my stairs for safety and found these lights, which work and look great! They come with everything you need to fasten them to the stairs so they don't fall off as well. I even bought extra and tested them in the event that the ones that are currently outside get damaged for any reason, and they are no longer sold. Definitely recommend for the price, nice and bright, and easy installation. Plus, they last all night long!" —BrookeGet it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in warm or cool white light and five pack sizes).
A rolling pool organizer to finally keep all those pool noodles and beach balls in one place.
And some color-changing inflatable pool balls so your pool is always the place to party. They're solar-powered and will last about eight hours on a single charge.