A little luxury can go a long way. Nothing says summer in Australia like long, warm days spent outside. Sun lounges offer the ultimate comfort and practicality. What’s more, you don’t need to be at a resort to enjoy one when you can kick back and soak up summer whenever you like in your own outdoor living space.
There are a few factors to consider when it comes to finding the right sun lounge. So, the Amart team have put together your ultimate guide to make the decision easier. You’ll be kicking back on your new sun lounge or daybed in no time.
What you need to consider when picking a sun lounger
A few practical considerations before buying your sun lounge or daybed will ensure you’ve made the right choice for many happy years of summer fun. Location, style, budget, your existing garden furniture, and the amount of space in your outdoor living area all come into play when choosing the right sun lounge.
Below we’ll walk you through our top tips and tricks on how to pick the right sun lounge, explaining frame materials and fabrics, folding and fixed structures, and other important elements for your consideration.
How to choose the perfect sun lounge for your space
Relaxing is the primary purpose for putting sun lounges in your outdoor space. But, before you get to destination relaxation, consider whether your sun lounges will be:
- for sunbathing
- used as a conversation spot on the lawn where you or your guests can break away for a moment to enjoy a quiet space
- for curling up on your own with a book or some music.
Getting to the heart of your intention for new sun lounges will help narrow your search.
Where are you putting your sun lounges?
Location is another significant element in choosing the best sun loungers. Consider whether they will be:
- poolside, on the lawn, patio, or in the garden.
- undercover or in full sun.
- You’ll also need to factor in the size of your space.
Sun lounge chairs can take up a fair bit of room because they recline, so consider their dimensions when they’re fully extended and whether you’ll be able to walk around them comfortably.
Folding structure or fixed structure?
If you have the space, a fixed structure sun lounge will make a statement in your outdoor area. This is a style of sun lounge that you won’t be moving around easily due to its solid weight. Picture the St Kilda Canopy Daybed in your garden or by your pool creating a comfortable, welcoming oasis of relaxation that is spacious for two or more people.
A folding structure like the Sailor Outdoor Sunlounge is designed for one person and has four recline points so you can choose your comfiest setting. And change it as often as you like! Folding sun lounges are lighter than a fixed structure and can therefore be moved to a new position with minimal difficulty.
Defining whether you’d like a fixed or folding sun lounge will help you narrow down your search so you can decide on a style to suit your outdoor living space.
What sun lounge style do you have in mind?
Are you looking to carry your interior design style through to your outdoor furniture? Or if you already have an outdoor dining setting or outdoor lounge setting, would like your sun lounges to stay in theme with the rest of your al fresco area? Whether you’re starting fresh with new outdoor furniture for your entertaining space or looking for a style of sun lounge to complement your existing pieces, consider which type will fit the bill. Are you looking for:
- a traditional style of sun lounge with an adjustable recline?
- a nest chair or hanging chair like the Sanibel Outdoor Hanging Chair - perfect on its own or as a pair for social relaxation?
- or an outdoor daybed which is a padded seat for one or more people that allows you to sit up or lie down?
You can get a resort vibe with any of the sun lounges in Amart’s range. All you need to do is choose the one that best suits your style and budget.
Durable frame materials
Typically used during hot summers, your sun lounger needs to be made of tough stuff. Spending each day under the Australian summer sun requires tough materials. Look for aluminium or steel frames with UV-stabilised fabrics that can handle direct sun, like the aluminium Amari Outdoor Sunlounge. Aluminium is rust-resistant, can handle extreme heat and moisture and is durable and budget-friendly.
The Casablanca Outdoor Daybed has an aluminium frame with comfy foam cushions while the Cove Sun Bed with a built-in sun shade awning is constructed with a sturdy steel frame and UV-resistant PE wicker.
What matters most: comfort!
Sit up, sip your drink, read your book, have a chat, lie down and doze. Repeat. That’s what’s in store for you on your new sun lounge. So, it’s important that you choose something comfortable for your body shape and requirements. The large range of sun lounges and daybeds at Amart covers all styles and price points so you’re sure to find something perfect for you. But if you’d like to test out the range first (just to be sure) head to your nearest Amart showroom.
Our range of sun lounges features four recline points so you can choose your comfiest setting for a divine recline. And change it as often as you like!
Caring for your sun lounges
A little care goes a long way. Keep your sun lounges looking great for the long term in a few simple steps:
- Store them undercover (preferably in a shed or garage) during winter or other prolonged periods when they won’t be in use.
- Where possible, don’t leave outdoor cushions in the rain.
- Wipe excess water from your sun lounges after the rain.
- To remove dirt and grime, rinse your sun lounges with water or periodically clean them with a sponge and a mild detergent.
Outdoor accessories to enhance sun lounge comfort
Fancy a safe spot to put your cold drink and book? How about some moveable shade so you can stay in your sun lounger all day? A design like the Lanikai Outdoor Side Table pairs beautifully with either the Bodhi Outdoor Sunlounge or the Bede Outdoor Nest Chair.
And for all-day shade, you can’t go past an outdoor umbrella. The Amart range of patio umbrellas includes square or round shapes to suit your furniture and garden design. Choose between a centre pole style with a tilt mechanism that allows you to tilt your umbrella canopy as the sun moves during the day. Or opt for a cantilever style with a side post providing clear, unobstructed space beneath it for your sun loungers.
Browse our outdoor living accessories for all the extras that will take your outdoor living a level up in relaxation. From fire pits to outdoor rugs or foldable beach chairs, you’ll find everything you need for enjoying outdoor living at Amart.
