These Materials Should Never Be On Your Outdoor Patio

When it comes to your outdoor space, durability is a top priority. Creating a beautiful patio is all about choosing pieces that can withstand the elements and elevate your space. You might be looking to incorporate some outdoor patio and furniture trends, and while some materials may look great at first, they can deteriorate when exposed to sunlight, rain, or humidity. This can leave your furniture moldy or faded, and could even create safety issues. Materials that absorb moisture or trap heat aren't well equipped for weather, either. By avoiding them, you can create a gorgeous patio that turns your backyard into an oasis and lasts through the seasons. So before you invest in an outdoor setup, some materials that should never be on your patio include natural rattan, organic fiber rugs, non-tempered glass, and upholstered furniture.

Natural rattan furniture may look perfect for your patio, but unfortunately, it is not built for constant outdoor exposure. It's a porous, organic material, so it absorbs moisture, which can lead to mold, fading, and cracking. For that reason, natural rattan is much better for indoor use. However, if you enjoy the look of rattan, purchase synthetic or PE rattan for your patio. You can also search for other ways to include rattan in your backyard space with furniture that's more outdoor-friendly. 

Rugs can feel like an extension of the living space into the outdoors. Natural fiber rugs like jute and sisal can look stylish, organic, and create a boho-themed design. However, these materials also absorb moisture easily, so when left outside, they wear and fade from exposure to rain and humidity. If you want organic rug materials in your outdoor space, they'll need regular maintenance and cleaning. Cover the rugs when they aren't in use, store them in a weatherproof bag or box, or remove them during wet seasons to prevent moisture buildup. You could also opt for rugs more specifically designed for outdoor use.

Using tables or other pieces of furniture outdoors made of non-tempered glass is unsafe. Standard glass is much less durable than tempered glass due to how it's manufactured. It is highly likely to crack or shatter during temperature changes or heavy impact. If you want to use glass outdoors, ensure you're purchasing tempered glass furniture. It's much stronger, and if it happens to break, it will do so into safer, smaller, non-sharp pieces.

Finally, upholstery is prone to trapping moisture and mildew, so it's not great for your patio. It also fades easily in the sun. You need to look for types of upholstery designed to withstand moisture and heat if you want fabric for your outdoor furniture. However, it's important to note that even those fabrics will need extensive cleaning and protection from overexposure. They can still wear out and break down when left outdoors for extended periods. To extend their lifespan, store upholstered pieces when not in use or use protective covers.