Teak and powder-coated aluminum are the most durable outdoor furniture materials. More than just sturdy, these materials can resist rot, rust, and weathering for decades with proper care. 

Aluminum and synthetic wicker are some of the easiest to maintain. All they need is an occasional rinse — no treatments, sealants, or rust prevention needed. 

Yes, you can leave your outdoor furniture outside year-round, as long as it's made of weather-resistant materials. If you choose a material that's more sensitive to the elements, you may need to opt for seasonal use. 

While some materials like teak or rattan are water resistant, they’re not fully waterproof. Others rely on coatings to repel moisture. However, plastic, resin, and stainless steel are fully waterproof. 

What is the best material for outdoor furniture? Outdoor furniture faces year-round exposure to the elements, which means the ideal material for your patio depends largely on your local climate. 

Here’s what you should look for depending on your climate type: 

Hot and sunny — fade-resistant, heat-dispersing materials like aluminum and synthetic wicker

Humid or rainy — moisture-resistant or waterproof material, like teak, stainless steel, and wicker

Freezing temperatures — materials that resist cracking or corrosion in the cold, like all-weather wicker, powder-coated aluminum, or stainless steel

Coastal regions — materials that can withstand wind, moisture, and salt erosion, like powder-coated aluminum, synthetic wood, and stainless steel