Interiors

25 best sun loungers and garden recliners to bring chic holiday vibes to your back garden

Level up your lounging with these design-led picks.
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What is the best material for a sun lounger?

The main materials at your disposal when it comes to sun loungers include rattan (be it natural or PE rattan), powder-coated steel, and wood.

Rattan
  • While rattan can create a lovely Boho feel to your outdoor space, natural rattan isn't perhaps the most weather-resistant. As such, we at GLAMOUR would suggest looking to alternative polyurethane or polypropelene make ups to protect your garden furniture against the UK's inevitable showers.
Powder-coated steel
  • Frequently pared with either a mesh bed fabric or, on the more plush side, a sun lounger cushion, the appeal of powder-coated steel is twofold. Firstly, it protects the lounger against fading, even after overexposure to bright sunlight and, secondly, it adds strength to your bed's frame in preparation for inclement weather. Which, we might add, is a certainty here in Britain.
Wood
  • Whether you opt for teak, acacia or eucalyptus, using sunbeds with a wood frame is about as close as you'll get to recreating that five-star hotel feel. Certain wood types - e.g. acacia - are naturally weather resistant, too, and the natural fading of the wood can be fixed with proper varnishing and maintenance. Alternatively, we happen to quite like the beachy driftwood appearance of faded wood.

Sun lounger and outdoor seating features to look for

When shopping for sun loungers and outdoor seating, we’re all about details that mix style with substance. First off, adjustable reclining positions and ergonomic shapes make a massive difference — think ultimate comfort without compromising on looks. Weather-resistant materials like rattan, teak or sleek metal keep things chic and practical (no dragging furniture inside when clouds appear). Foldable designs are a dream for smaller spaces, and bonus points for built-in side tables or clever headrests for added luxe. Essentially, pick something comfy, low-maintenance, and stylish enough to make your garden look like it belongs on your Pinterest board.


What are zero-gravity sun loungers?

Zero-gravity sun loungers are basically the closest we can get to floating on a cloud — without actually leaving the garden. Inspired by NASA (yes, really), these chairs recline to a position that evenly distributes your weight, lifting your legs slightly above your heart. It’s all about maximum comfort and minimum pressure on your spine. Perfect for those days when your biggest goal is complete relaxation — ideally with sunglasses and something chilled close at hand.


How much do I need to spend on a sun lounger?

The good news is that, when it comes to sun loungers, there’s something chic for every budget. If you’re after a simple foldable style, around £50 can snag you something comfy and practical. Spend between £150-£300 and you’ll step up to premium fabrics, rattan detailing, or sleek wooden frames. Splash out £500 or more, and you're looking at serious luxury — think stylish, designer-worthy pieces crafted from teak or aluminium that'll make your garden feel properly posh.


For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.