Latest news with #outdoorLiving
Forbes
3 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The 6 Best Patio Furniture Sales To Shop Ahead Of Summer
Summer is quickly approaching, so it's time to get outside. If your outdoor space is in need of a refresh, these patio furniture sales are worth checking out. Whether you're looking forward to dining al fresco with a contemporary Burrow dining set or hanging poolside with these top-rated lounge chairs, it's a great time to shop discounts on patio essentials for the months ahead. Take up to 56% off select patio furniture with these ongoing sales. Home brands like West Elm, Wayfair and Frontgate are offering tons of deals on investment-worthy pieces right now—from roomy seating arrangements to intimate bistro tables. Ahead, we've rounded up the best patio furniture sales from popular retailers to help you save as much as 56% on your backyard refresh. Wayfair is one of the best online retailers for home goods. It carries thousands of products from a variety of brands, including a robust inventory of patio furniture. This week, shop new arrivals, best-selling items and top-rated products at up to 56% off. Wayfair Wayfair Wayfair Wayfair Wayfair Amazon is a true one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need, including patio furniture. The e-tailer has a wide array of well-priced designs to match just about any style and budget, like this rocking bistro set and this spacious, curved umbrella. Amazon Amazon Amazon Amazon Amazon Frontgate seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary designs to create timeless, high-end pieces for your home. Right now, you can save 30% on outdoor furniture (and everything else on its site). Frontgate Frontgate Frontgate Frontgate Frontgate If you're looking for mid-century-inspired furniture, you can't go wrong with West Elm. Its outdoor sale section is full of chic bestsellers for up to 50% off—like this outside dining table that seats six and this outdoor sofa. West Elm West Elm West Elm West Elm West Elm Nobody does modular furniture like Burrow. Most of its contemporary designs are customizable to better fit your space and aesthetic. This week, save up to 25% sitewide on trendy designs and new colorways. Burrow Burrow Burrow Burrow No matter your outdoor aesthetic, Pottery Barn has options to fit your design vision. Right now, you can save up to 50% on outdoor essentials and patio furniture, including customizable sets. Pottery Barn Pottery Barn Pottery Barn Pottery Barn Pottery Barn The Forbes Vetted home team has spent countless hours researching and writing home shopping guides, including our best patio furniture guide and tested stories, like the best outdoor sofas and the best patio umbrellas. We regularly reference each guide to find the best patio furniture deals available right now. Assistant deals editor Jordan Thomas has been writing about deals and online consumer shopping since 2019. She tracks trending products and sales all year long to bring readers the best offers available. Deals and coupons writer Bianca Alvarez has been finding the best deals across all shopping categories since 2023. She regularly monitors various sales and product trends to find items that are worth buying.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Temu's budget buy will protect your garden from nosy neighbours this summer & it costs LESS than £3
IF you're someone who loves to pan out in the sun but feel too exposed in your garden, don't worry. Temu has a handy item that instantly elevates your garden's privacy, and it won't set you back too much. 2 Whether you like to lie back and soak up the sun or enjoy a meal al fresco during the warm summer weather, this decor item may be worth picking up. And don't worry if you're only renting, because this bargain buy can be easily installed and removed from your outdoor space. The Roll Artificial Ivy Privacy Screen is currently available for just £2.93 from Temu. This faux greenery wall panel is perfect from shielding your outdoor space from nosy neighbours or any other prying eyes nearby. So whether you live beside a busy road or on top of the people next door, this panel will level up your garden in no time. And you can even make use of this item during the winter months, with manufacturers recommending repurposing it for Christmas decor during the off-season. Shoppers can choose between two styles, Apple Leaf or Sweet Potato Leaves. This buy has received an average rating of 4.5 stars from impressed Temu customers. "Bought this before for my fence so ordered more, it's really good, stayed up even with the horrendous weather we have had," wrote one Temu user. "Well worth the money, good product overall, this is about the eighth one I have ordered," said another person. "I have bought some in the past and wanted one to fill a gap, highly recommend," commented a third buyer. Amazon also has a £14 privacy buy that is described as "perfect" for summer. Another privacy fence is also available from Amazon, for just £5. B&Q has an affordable privacy fence currently on sale, and you can put it up yourself. And a £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden's privacy. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with another B&M buy. And its not just fences that can help give you privacy in your garden, one B&M item can help shield you from nosy neighbours and the sun. Meanwhile, a Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden. And a £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden's privacy. You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with another B&M buy. And its not just fences that can help give you privacy in your garden, one B&M item can help shield you from nosy neighbours and the sun. Meanwhile, a Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden. 2
Forbes
23-05-2025
- General
- Forbes
The 9 Best Patio Umbrellas, Based On Real-World Testing
The best patio umbrellas will help level up your outdoor lounging: they should offer ample sun protection while being easy to set up and maintain. We tested 11 patio umbrellas by having ten members of our staff set them up and use them at home in their backyards and patios. The Treasure Garden 9-Foot Deluxe Auto-Tilt Market Umbrella won as best patio umbrella overall because it's simple to set up, comes in a medium size that works for most patios and comes with a handy tilt feature that makes it easy to adjust for optimum shade. For those looking for the best cantilever patio umbrella, the Purple Leaf 11-Foot Cantilever Umbrella is our recommended pick for its stability, wind-resistant double canopy and variety of height and tilt combinations to get your shade just right. The best patio umbrellas will provide ample shade so you can lounge in comfort. We have several other top patio umbrellas to suit your preferences for size and aesthetics. Here are all of our picks for the best patio umbrellas: Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 9 feet | Height: 8.4 feet | Fabric: O'bravia solution-dyed polyester | Frame material: Aluminum | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 21 Pros: Cons: The Treasure Garden 9-Foot Deluxe Auto-Tilt Market Umbrella is a Goldilocks size for a market patio umbrella, and it will work with patio tables of differing heights. This umbrella comes with an octagonal canopy that is available in a wide array of colors and finishes. Of the umbrellas we tested, this one stood out for being easy to assemble. 'It's easy and intuitive to put the umbrella together and then get it in the base—the entire process took just a few minutes,' says our tester. She also notes that it can be adjusted depending on the height of your table, as it provides the option to set it to one of two available heights—a nice feature that most umbrellas we tested don't offer. The Treasure Garden 9-Foot Deluxe Auto-Tilt Market Umbrella stood out in our tests for being simple ... More to set up and adjust. The Treasure Garden umbrella opens with a simple crank and also has the capability to tilt, so you can adjust the canopy along with the sun's movements. Our tester says, 'The umbrella is extremely easy to adjust. It stays firmly in place once lifted, and it's just as easy to lower. Instead of a Velcro strap to secure the umbrella when closed, it ties, which I prefer because the [ties] won't wear over time.' She notes that she feels noticeably cooler when sitting under it and that it provides sufficient shade to easily see screens if she's working under the umbrella. The Treasure Garden umbrella comes with a crank to lift and lower it, and has a tilt function. Like most patio umbrellas we tested, the Treasure Garden umbrella does not come with a base. We paired it with a 50-pound Treasure Garden base. The company recommends using a base that weighs 50 to 80 pounds, so you have the option to choose a heavier one to ensure your umbrella stays put even on windy days. But so far, the 50 pound option has been sufficient to secure the umbrella, while still being light enough for our tester to move the umbrella around on her own. Frontgate Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 11 feet | Height: 8 feet | Fabric: Sunbrella | Frame material: Aluminum, teak | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 81 Pros: Cons: For the best large patio umbrella, our top pick is the Frontgate 11-Foot Round Outdoor Market Umbrella. This umbrella offers one of the widest ranges of canopy colors and frame combinations of the patio umbrellas we tested. It not only comes in a wide range of colors, but also in different patterns, as well—solids, stripes, botanicals and more. If you're unsure how to choose, the company offers swatches so you can zero in on the perfect option for you. The Frontgate 11-Foot Round Outdoor Market Umbrella has a canopy made from sturdy, weather-resistant ... More Sunbrella fabric, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. Notably, the Frontgate umbrella's canopy is made from sturdy, weather-resistant Sunbrella fabric to provide ample shade. Our tester was impressed by the quality. 'The fabric on my umbrella is a thick, high-quality cloth material that feels super durable," she says. 'It's definitely opaque with little to no sunlight getting through it at all, which makes it perfect for full sun protection.' She opted for one of the lighter colors that the canopy comes in, and expected it to pick up some dirt and grime in the first few pollen-heavy weeks of testing. But the umbrella has been easy to maintain. 'I would have expected it to get a bit dirty, however, I have not seen anything noticeable yet," she says. The Frontgate umbrella opens and tilts with the same crank function as the Treasure Garden umbrella we tested. Our tester notes that the crank makes a clicking sound when opening, but works silently when being closed. 'Overall, I'm so happy with this umbrella, it looks great and feels high quality,' she says, 'I would 100% recommend it to a friend.' Frontgate recommends pairing the umbrella with a base of at least 50 pounds when using it with a small table. But note that if you plan to use the umbrella freestanding with a large table, you'll need a base that weighs at least 100 pounds. Our tester used the umbrella with a bronze base weighing 100 pounds. She says the base is high-quality, but even with the heavier weight, sometimes her umbrella frame would shake a bit in the wind. 'It's definitely best to use the umbrellas on calm days,' she says. This umbrella also comes in several size options, including 9-foot or 7.5-foot canopies. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 11 feet | Height: Up to 11 feet, depending on angle | Fabric: Yarn-dyed polyester | Frame material: Aluminum | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 8 Pros: Cons: If you're looking for the best cantilever patio umbrella, the Purple Leaf 11-Foot Cantilever Umbrella was a winner in our tests. This umbrella is another 11-foot diameter canopy, like the Frontgate, but it's notable for its offset design. The pole stands off to the side, providing unobscured shade compared to an umbrella with a pole in the middle of a canopy. The cantilever design also means you can place your umbrella over a row of chaise longues or an outdoor sofa, for example, instead of just over a table. It features a double canopy for increased wind-resistance and stability, which proved useful for an umbrella this large in our tests. With its offset design, the Purple Leaf 11-Foot Cantilever Umbrella can provide unobscured shade ... More over large patio areas. The Purple Leaf 11-Foot Cantilever Umbrella can rotate 360-degrees, and has six different height and angle combinations—one of the best ranges compared to umbrellas we tested—so you should always be able to find the perfect sun protection. It also comes in a 10, 12 or 13-foot diameter. This umbrella was also easy to adjust in testing. Our tester says, 'The umbrella is super easy to use. There is a handle which you squeeze to move the umbrella to the correct height and then a crank to open the umbrella to the desired level of openness. There is also another crank which turns the entire umbrella around 360 [degrees] so you can follow the sun.' The Purple Leaf folds down for storage. The Purple Leaf's aluminum frame is attractive and sturdy, and the base (sold separately) is designed to keep the umbrella from going anywhere. 'The instructions recommend filling the base with 70% sand and 30% water, which brings the total weight to about 220 pounds, fully filled,' our tester reports. The only downside? The umbrella will be heavy to rearrange, so it's best to pick a permanent spot. 'Once the base is filled, it is very hard to move the umbrella around, so make sure that you have it in the correct spot first,' she says. The combination of the weighted base and the double canopy make this umbrella ideal for spacious outdoor entertainment areas, and better suited for breezy climates. Pottery Barn Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 10 feet | Height: 8.5 feet | Fabric: Sunbrella, canvas | Frame material: Aluminum | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 16 Pros: Cons: The Pottery Barn 10-Foot Rectangular Outdoor Umbrella stood out for being the best rectangular patio umbrella. I tested this umbrella, and the shape and size works noticeably better paired with my rectangular backyard table than my previous octagonal umbrella did. Setup was simple, and I found the included illustrated directions clear and easy to follow. The umbrella opens and closes with a convenient crank, which also controls the tilt feature. The aluminum frame feels very durable and heavy, as do the spokes. Since the canopy is larger in one direction than the other, it tends to catch the breeze, a bit like a sail. The heavy duty construction gives me confidence that it's not going to take off. The spokes and frame on the Pottery Barn 10-Foot Rectangular Outdoor Umbrella felt durable in our ... More tests. This umbrella comes in 16 different colors and patterns, most of which are made from Sunbrella fabric, while three are made of recycled canvas. While there aren't as many color options as some other picks on our list, the Pottery Barn choices are quite nice. I picked a black-and-white striped Sunbrella canopy, and I love its striking look. Due to the stripes, much of the fabric is white, so the UV-protection offered by Sunbrella is welcome, as the light seems to penetrate through the white areas. While the light color means that I can easily see any creepy-crawlies on the canopy top, which isn't my favorite, it still provides plenty of shade for viewing screens. Priced at more than $700, this is a more expensive option than many umbrellas on our list. But knowing that this is a sturdy and well-made high-quality product makes me feel confident that it won't invert or take off in the wind. Still, I recommend being attentive and closing the umbrella when the breeze picks up. I ended up pairing the umbrella with the lowest price Pottery Barn base, the 66-pound concrete umbrella base. But there are three other options on the site, which offers flexibility so you can choose the best base for your needs. Birch Lane Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 7 feet | Height: 7.9 feet | Fabric: Polyester | Frame material: Metal and steel | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 8 Pros: Cons: Not everyone has an expansive outdoor space with room for large umbrellas. If you have a modest city courtyard or your only outdoor space is a balcony, a smaller umbrella will work best for you. The 7-foot-diameter Birch Lane Toscana 7-Foot Patio Umbrella won as best small patio umbrella in our tests thanks to its tilt feature, affordable price and sturdy build. This umbrella also offers UV-protection through the eight canopy colors available to choose form. Our tester notes that it opens and closes more like a traditional umbrella that you pop open, as opposed to using a crank like many other umbrellas have. 'While I'm accustomed to umbrellas that rely on a crank to deploy the canopy, I actually like the manual opening mechanism, because it's easy to use and it eliminates parts that could break over time,' he says. The smaller Birch Lane Toscana 7-Foot Patio Umbrella will work best for balconies or small ... More patios. He also praises the sturdy construction: 'Both the pole and the spokes are made of steel, so the umbrella feels really sturdy from top to bottom,' he says. 'I live in a windy area, but even as big gusts pass by each day, the umbrella stands strong—I haven't had to worry about it flying off.' We paired the umbrella with the Kade Fiberstone base available through Birch Lane, which comes in two finishes. Setup was seamless; our tester said he didn't even need the instructions. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 10 feet | Height: 8 feet | Fabric: Polyester | Frame material: Aluminum, steel | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 41 Pros: Cons: If you're looking for a patio umbrella with solar lights to add ambiance to your patio, the Best Choice Products 10-Foot Umbrella With Solar Lights is our top pick. It's also one of the most affordable recommendations on our list, yet it still earned an impressive 8.5 score from our tester. In addition to having lights for extra style points, the umbrella also comes in a wide variety of bright colors and striped patterns. Our tester calls this option 'a great value,' and says, 'It's much less expensive than the other options, but doesn't feel cheap or flimsy.' She praised how easy and straightforward the setup is, and says that the fabric is very easy to keep clean. 'We have had a lot of pollen in the past couple of weeks, and I'm able to easily wipe it off with a damp cloth.' The Best Choice Products umbrella's lights are designed to hold a charge for 6 to 7 hours. The Best Choice Products 10' Umbrella opens and closes with a crank, but uses a push-button design to tilt to follow the sun. As far as the included lights, the manufacturer claims the lights hold their charge for six to seven hours. There is an on/off switch on the pole, so they don't turn on or shut off automatically. All in all, our tester says, 'It doesn't have a high-end look like some of the others, but I think it's beautiful and makes a nice addition to my deck.' We paired it with a compatible base from Best Choice Products suggested by Amazon. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 9 feet | Height: 8 feet, 4 inches | Fabric: Sunbrella | Frame material: Wood | Tilt: No | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 4 Pros: Cons: The L. L. Bean 9-Foot Sunbrella Market Umbrella is a classic patio umbrella with a chic look. Our tester says, 'This model is a sturdy and good-looking umbrella with a medium-weight, soft-textured fabric.' This umbrella does function differently than others we tested. Unlike the umbrellas that open with a crank or have push-button features, the L. L. Bean uses a pulley system. You have to push it open manually, and then 'slot a steel key into a hole of your choice (based on how open you want it—there are four [options] total) to secure it to that level of openness,' she says. The L. L Bean 9-Foot Sunbrella Market Umbrella has a classic look thanks to its wooden pole. Note that this option does not have a tilt feature. Despite being very impressed with the umbrella in general, our tester says, 'Because the umbrella is not massively huge and does not tilt—plus the base (we used the L. L. Bean Market Umbrella Stand) is quite heavy—it's difficult to maneuver around throughout the course of an afternoon when the sun is changing positions.' This umbrella will be best for those set on a wooden frame and a classic aesthetic. Frontgate Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 10 x 13 feet | Height: 10 feet | Fabric: Sunbrella | Frame material: Aluminum | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: Yes | Colors: 3 Pros: Cons: If you're looking for a super heavy-duty cantilever patio umbrella that can withstand a windy day, the Frontgate Altura Cantilever Umbrella is the best option we recommend. It comes with a substantial base to weigh it down, and with a large shade-providing canopy, you'll appreciate that stability when the breeze kicks up. The umbrella rotates 360 degrees and has a tilt feature, so you should be able to block the sun's rays all day long. The aluminum base is available in two finishes: one in silver, and one that resembles teak wood. The canopy is only available in three colors, but they are all tasteful and relatively neutral shades. The Frontgate Altura Cantilever Umbrella is seriously heavy duty, making it a stable pick that's ... More best to anchor in one spot on your patio. This umbrella does require a more intensive setup than our other picks. After setting it up, our tester reported: 'Not only is the umbrella really tall, it's heavy, so you need help to guide it into place and then lift it up so it slides down on the pole…. One thing that's very notable is that this base requires twelve 16 x 16 [inch] concrete pavers. Each one is 36 pounds, so that's 432 pounds of combined weight that you'll have to carry and place into the base.' This option will be best for people that want to keep a patio umbrella in a permanent spot. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Canopy size: 9 feet | Height: 8.2 feet | Fabric: Polyester | Frame material: Aluminum, iron | Tilt: Yes | UV-resistant: Yes | Base included: No | Colors: 21 Pros: Cons: If you want to have a patio umbrella shipped from Amazon quickly and conveniently, the best-selling Blissun 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, with a 4.5 Amazon star rating out of more than 35,000 reviews, is our recommendation. It offers the same features as many of the higher-priced options we tested, and scored a 9/10 from our tester. While the base is aluminum, the spokes are made of iron, so the umbrella felt extra sturdy. Our tester was able to get it assembled and in the base with no trouble (we used the Blissun Heavy Duty Patio Market Umbrella Base Stand from Amazon). 'The umbrella felt sturdy and it did come with instructions for setup, although the setup was pretty intuitive. Despite its reasonable price, I don't think the umbrella is very cheap-looking,' she reports. The Blissun 9-Foot Patio Umbrella may be basic, but it has a tilt feature for adjustability. While the Blissun is a relatively no-frills option, it does have a tilt feature so you can adjust the canopy with the sun. And it's available in a large selection of colors and striped patterns, in a waterproof and sun-resistant polyester. These patio umbrellas didn't land on our final list, but they may end up fitting your specific needs. Midtown Umbrellas LED 8-Foot Patio Umbrella ($400 at Amazon; 4/5 stars). The Midtown Umbrella didn't measure up to other umbrellas we tested, despite its relatively high price. Our tester wasn't happy with the canopy fabric, saying, 'The way the stitching is done makes the edges look slightly cheap, and the way the fabric goes over the edge of each point of the frame can be off until you adjust it.' It was also wobbly, giving us pause on how well this umbrella will hold up over time. Our tester liked how it adjusts and tilts, and that it has lights, which can be charged manually or by the sun. Birch Lane Iago 9-Foot Outdoor Umbrella ($220 at Wayfair; 3.5/5 stars). While our tester was a fan of the Iago's aesthetics, she didn't feel that it was very sturdy. 'The fabric on the Birch Lane Iago umbrella looks and feels elevated, like an umbrella you'd sit under at a fancy hotel on the Amalfi Coast,' she says. But when it comes to its construction, she wishes the frame materials felt sturdier. Still, she says, 'If you mainly care about aesthetics and not as much about how the umbrella could hold up in all kinds of weather, this is one of the cutest and most reasonably priced options I've seen." We tasked ten Forbes Vetted testers with trying out 11 patio umbrellas in their backyards and patios at home to find the best ones. Our testers evaluated patio umbrella features including ease of assembly, adjustability and quality of canopy fabric. Our initial testing time frame was two weeks, and we will continue to check in with our testers throughout the summer to evaluate how durable umbrellas prove to be over time. Here are the criteria we considered in our tests. Our testers reported on the experience of assembling their umbrellas. We noted whether instructions were included (and if they helped), whether one person could set up the umbrella on their own, how complicated the setup was and how easily the frame fit into the base. Our testers took note of how easy it was to assemble each umbrella, including whether one person ... More could set up an umbrella on their own. Most of our recommended umbrellas have aluminum frames, although we do include one wood option. The type of frame you choose may depend on your outdoor decor, as well as how willing you are to maintain your umbrella frame. 'I prefer aluminum frame umbrellas because they are lightweight, rust-resistant and more durable than wood,' says Jessica Sidey, senior visual merchandiser at Christy Sports. 'However, if you are looking for [a] more classic look, a wood umbrella frame can be a great option; they just require more maintenance.' Testers evaluated how sturdy their umbrella's frame felt and how well a frame supported the open canopy. Patio umbrellas come in a variety of fabrics, such as canvas or polyester, but look for one that offers UV protection, like Sunbrella. Sidey says, 'Acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella or O'Bravia are my go-tos.' We noted whether the canopy our testers received matched how the umbrella looked online. Testers evaluated the texture and feel of fabric, whether it was waterproof, and how much sun protection it provided. Our testers put their umbrellas through their paces, trying out every adjustment and angle available. Some umbrellas are simple and don't offer any adjustments, while others rotate or have a button or crank to tilt to follow the sun. We noted whether the adjustment was easy or difficult, how sturdy the button or crank was, and if the frame remained strong and upright during adjustments. The umbrella canopies we tested come with a variety of care instructions, from hosing off to spot cleaning to washing in a machine. Testers cleaned umbrellas as needed, handling any debris or staining with a hose or by spot-cleaning per manufacturer directions. Most of the umbrellas on our list don't have additional features, but a couple we tested do feature solar lights. Our testers used the lighted umbrellas and noted how well they lights work and how long they hold a charge. Some umbrellas also feature a wind vent to help the canopy withstand strong breezes, and testers noted this feature when relevant. Before you select a patio umbrella, you'll want to consider the correct size, style and base for your needs. Here is our expert advice on picking the best patio umbrella for you. In general, most market style patio umbrellas can either stand alone or be inserted through a hole in the middle of a table. Cantilever-style umbrellas are useful to shade an outdoor sectional sofa or row of lounge chairs, for example, when there isn't necessarily a table as the centerpiece. Before you choose your umbrella canopy, make sure it's an appropriate size for your outdoor area. You might consider any table or outdoor furniture the umbrella will be shielding, and also how many people you expect to sit under it. Canopies of 6 or 7 feet can fit on a small balcony or patio, and are usually sufficient to protect a small bistro table. Sidey gave some additional guidance on how to choose the right umbrella size. 'Umbrellas [should] be 2 feet larger on each side than the area you want to shade,' she says. 'For example, a 4- to 5-foot table would need a 7-foot umbrella; a 6- to 7-foot table would need a 9-foot umbrella.' For large spaces needing an offset umbrella frame, 'I love cantilever umbrellas for deep seating areas, and they can range from 10 feet to 13 feet,' Sidey says. The most important job of a base is to support the umbrella's size. 'Weight, style, material and mobility are the top things to consider when choosing a base,' Sidey says. Generally, Sidey recommends a base of at least 50 pounds for a 6- to 7-foot umbrella. If your canopy measures 7.5 feet to 9 feet, look for a base that weighs at least 75 pounds. Extra-large or cantilever umbrellas need a very stable base that weighs at least 100 pounds. These bases are often filled with a mixture of water and playground sand. Some may require the addition of stone pavers to keep a large umbrella secure in the breeze. Especially when it comes to a heavier base, 'Look for wheels if you want to move it around,' Sidey recommends. We tested patio umbrellas with recommended bases, ensuring that a base could support an umbrella's ... More weight. There are a few options you can choose regarding how your umbrella functions. Most umbrellas we tested come with a crank, though some use a pulley system or push up like a traditional umbrella. If your umbrella tilts, make sure you know what type of control it has and if it's what you're looking for. We asked Sidey to explain some of the most common controls to look for in your patio umbrellas: Take note of what extra accessories or features your patio umbrella comes with. Some have an extra vent to allow the canopy to withstand strong breezes better. Solar and LED lights are a relatively common extra that are included with some umbrellas. I'm a commerce editor at Forbes Vetted, where I focus on product testing and writing reviews for the home, sleep, gear and tech categories. I've been devising product-testing methodologies and researching consumer products for over five years. Recently, I've covered the best robotic pool cleaners and the best cantilever umbrellas for Forbes Vetted. For this article, I also spoke with Jessica Sidey, senior visual merchandiser at Christy Sports, for her professional insight into what makes the best patio umbrellas. Ten Forbes Vetted testers participated in this test, evaluating everything about each umbrella, including the setup process, the materials, sun protection and any special features. The team will continue to test each umbrella throughout the spring and summer seasons, and update this article over time. The best material for patio umbrellas will be durable and provide extra sun protection. 'Sunbrella is the industry gold standard. It is fade-resistant, water-repellent, mildew-resistant and comes in many colors. O'Bravia is a more affordable version that is also durable and UV-resistant—a great alternative to Sunbrella,' says Sidey. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations before cleaning. For most cases, Sidey recommends first removing loose debris with a soft brush or vacuum. Then use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap or dish detergent in lukewarm water to gently scrub the fabric. Rinse the canopy off with your hose and make sure it's completely dry before closing or storing. If mildew is an issue, Sidey says to add a small amount of white vinegar to the mix. The short answer is yes, with some caveats. 'It is possible with caution and a properly weighted base,' Sidey says. She advised to make sure the base is heavy enough to support your umbrella and to never leave it unattended. 'Wind can be unpredictable, so always make sure it is down and tied shut when you are not around,' she says. Also, when you're not using your umbrella, close it and secure it.
Forbes
23-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The 30 Best Memorial Day Patio Furniture Sales That Are Live Right Now
Memorial Day sales have officially gone live, so now's the time to start refreshing your patio for summer lounging. The long weekend—and the week leading up to it—is one of the best times to shop for outdoor furniture before summer is in full swing. Some of the steepest drops we've seen so far in the Memorial Day patio furniture sales are on sites like Wayfair, West Elm and Frontgate. These are the best Memorial Day patio furniture sales for upgrading your outdoor area. Whether you're in the market for a new outdoor sectional, a patio dining set or just an umbrella for poolside hangouts, there are plenty of deals worth shopping this weekend. West Elm's sale section is crawling with deals for up to 50% off, while AllModern has hundreds of stylish options to sift through. Don't forget about big box retailers, either—Target, Amazon and Walmart each have tons of patio essentials for less right now. Wayfair Target Retailer. Plow & Hearth Bed Bath & Beyond Lowe's Article Serena & Lily Target The Home Depot West Elm Wayfair Frontgate Burrow Wayfair Walmart BJ's Wholesale Club Costway West Elm Frontgate Wayfair Serena & Lily Macy's Costway Target Wayfair Frontgate AllModern Mark & Day JCPenney
CNN
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
Hosting this summer? Wayfair has Memorial Day deals to spruce up your space
Memorial Day is basically here, and we've kept a close eye on furniture deals. Year after year, Wayfair's Memorial Day event is one of the best, with thousands of deeply discounted home items. Refresh your living room with rugs and armchairs or deck out your patio with outdoor dining sets primed for hosting Memorial Day plans. No matter what's on your checklist, Wayfair has Memorial Day deals of up to 70% off small appliances, furniture, decor and more. I am in the market for a pair of patio chairs and a stylish mirror myself, so I've been simultaneously scouring the best deals and adding them to my cart. Hundreds upon hundreds of deals are live, and I've gone through dozens of pages to whittle down the best Wayfair Memorial Day deals below. Latitude Run Leen Round Outdoor Dining Set I've been contemplating if I should buy this bistro set for some time now, and I feel ready to take the plunge with this tempting 65% discount. That knocks over $200 off its original pricing for the Parisian-inspired patio chairs and table. Beachcrest Home Shawnna Weather-Resistant Foldable Outdoor Adirondack Chair No porch is truly complete without an Adirondack chair. For all your cabin adventures, days spent by the lake or nights circled around a bonfire, this reclining seat is more than half off well for Memorial Day weekend plans. The Twillery Co. Pierpoint 9-Foot Market Umbrella Bring some shade to your summer barbecues with this 9-foot patio umbrella. It comes with a nifty hand crank for quick, easy setup. It's also available in nine on-sale, fade-resistant colors. Gracie Oaks Alegre Bordered Power Loomed Tan Indoor/Outdoor Rug Pull outdoor spaces together with a neutral rug that touts UV resistance. Starting at $27, choose from sizes of 2 feet by 3 feet for small patios up to 7 feet by 9 feet for large spaces. There are even runners for placement in front of benches or grills. KingSo Round Steel Wood-Burning Smokeless Fire Pit Grill veggies and roast marshmallows with this fire pit. It dipped below $100 for Memorial Day, so you can get the conversation starter in preparation for the long weekend. When temps dip at night, enjoy stargazing by the fireside. AllModern Rae 84-Inch Upholstered Sofa One of our favorite Wayfair couches just got a steep discount for Memorial Day. An interior designer we consulted recommends the couch for small or modern spaces. Equally practical as it is stylish, it also comes in three on-sale performance fabrics. Kelly Clarkson Home Emily Rattan Cane TV Stand Your TV setup just got that more streamlined with this media console. It keeps the eyesore of corded devices discreetly hidden. With four-door storage, it offers ample room to stash games and serveware too. Wade Logan Braedin Upholstered Accent Chair and Storable Ottoman An accent chair like this one adds a luxe touch to living rooms without having to pay top dollar. Unlike other options out there, this one includes an ottoman so you can kick up your feet and hide it underneath when not in use. Red Barrel Studio Styx Abstract Coffee Table Don Draper himself would love to have this coffee table in his home. Midcentury lines meet postmodern curves with this coffee table, bringing an upscale touch to living rooms. Birch Lane Fiama Pedestal End Table If you need a smaller surface for plants or a place to drop keys and mail, this end table fills the role and looks good doing it. Its wooden style and circular silhouette remind me of Nancy Meyers' aesthetics. Re/Fine Sabine Metal Round Wall Mirror I've been waiting for the perfect opportunity to commit to this circular mirror, and it just arrived with Wayfair's Memorial Day deals. It comes in silver, gold and black hardware with the option to select sizes of 18 inches to 48 inches. Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Francis Wool Beige and Charcoal Rug Inspired by parquet flooring, this diamond-patterned rug brings an expensive feel to rooms. That's without the major markup, though, while it's discounted for Wayfair's Memorial Day sale. Joss & Main Chemise Ceramic Table Lamp Complete with a ceramic base, an urn-like shape and a subtle texture, this table lamp embraces minimalistic aesthetics without feeling too sterile. It makes a great accent to side tables or entryway consoles at up to 43% off. Wade Logan Baislee Matte Picture Frames, Set of 3 Frames can be surprisingly expensive. So get your gallery wall started with this discounted pack. They already come matted, bringing a streamlined touch to your photographs. Re/Fine Edgar 100% Cotton Throw Pillow Soften couches and furniture with a plush throw pillow. Available in over 20 colors, this on-sale pillow comes in several styles so you can mix and match according to your preferred design aesthetic. Why not grab multiple while they're over 50% off? Latitude Run Juanetta Hydraulic Lift-Up Storage Upholstered Platform Bed My sister upgraded her bed frame setup with this hydraulic option. Now storing and reaching for her seasonal clothing and luggage is easier than ever. With these Memorial Day deals, it's reasonably priced too. Mercury Row Yarber 6-Drawer Solid Wood Double Dresser Every major holiday, I spot this bestselling dresser on sale. It has a steep discount once again at over half off. My sister has owned the very same one for years, and it's held up with dozens of clothing pieces packed inside. Mercury Row Syverson Armoire A standing armoire will be your best friend if your bedroom lacks closet storage like mine does. This wooden armoire looks expensive, but it costs only $225 during this Wayfair sale. It has a clothing rod to hang long coats and a bottom drawer for spare shoes. All Modern Indra Nightstand Clean up your bedside with this nightstand with a drawer. It adopts a midcentury modern wood finish, and its open shelf lets you display coffee-table books. Snag it in four on-sale finishes, including this dark walnut. Sealy Cool 12-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress With CopperChill Technology Memorial Day marks one of the best times to buy a new mattress. That's because hot-ticket items see the steepest discounts, especially as retailers make way for new stock. Consider this 53% deal as your sign to replace your old mattress. All Modern Nia Vegan Leather Barstools, Set of 2 Stools don't have to be uncomfortable. This pair is padded with leather so you can sit, dine and chat for longer. It also comes in varying heights for bars and counters, for as little as $129. George Oliver Agne Round Pedestal Dining Table You'd never know from looking at it that this stylish circle table costs less than $450. It comes in a refined oak finish as well as a modern black or white, all of which are discounted during Wayfair's Memorial Day sale. Lark Manor Annibelle Kitchen Pantry Cabinet space is precious in my Brooklyn-based kitchen. That's why I'm eyeing this standing pantry, especially while it's down to just $143. I love that it leaves a shelf open for displaying cookbooks or granting easy access to appliances. George Oliver Upholstered Solid Wood Dining Chairs, Set of 2 Bundling two chairs at just $150, this set elevates your dining experience for much less. It features an upholstered seat propped up by tapered wooden legs, embracing midcentury modern styles. Rebrilliant Chrome Glass Bar Cart Display all your martini glasses and impressive liquor supply with this equally stunning bar cart. Its chrome hardware and combination of curved, rounded and rectangular lines will make it a statement piece in your kitchen. Philips 1000 Series Air Fryer I've never seen a sleeker-looking air fryer than this Philips one. Its matte black will surely look great on any countertop, and its equally attractive doorbuster deal makes me want to cop one for myself. Smeg '50s Retro-Style 7-Cup Electric Kettle Obsessed would be an understatement when describing how I feel about this electric kettle. It adopts the retro aesthetic synonymous with the brand. While it'd usually be a major spend, it just dipped below $200. Bissell Pet Stain Eraser Duo Deluxe Any pet owner needs a handheld vacuum in their arsenal. Keep this 43%-off pick from Bissell at the ready when messes arise. The cordless design can tackle thin carpets, low-pile rugs and upholstery in a pinch. De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine We love a De'Longhi as much as the next, but we can't ignore its hefty price tag. Luckily, you can kick up your caffeine intake while Wayfair has the espresso machine for nearly half off. Shark Air Purifier With True HEPA Allergy season is in full swing, and you can take advantage of Memorial Day deals to keep sneezing under control. This Shark air purifier is down to $177. With its Clean Sense IQ, it can automatically sense air quality and adjust filtering accordingly. With the turn of the season, you may want to revamp your space for summer. This sale marks no better time since big-ticket items like mattresses, appliances and furniture are discounted. With the prompt arrival of these deals, you also have time to make a thoughtful buying decision without the mad buying frenzy influencing you. Our deals team has been covering deals for decades, garnering plenty of experience saving our readers money. After all, advocating for buyers is what we're all about. Our deals editor, Jacqueline Saguin, and the rest of the deals team work hard to ensure we're only handpicking the best prices on products, so you can get the most bang for your buck.
