Chaise Lounge Buying Guide: Styles, Materials & Features for Every Backyard

When it comes to outdoor relaxation, few pieces of furniture deliver like a chaise lounge. Whether you're sunbathing poolside, reading on the patio, or enjoying an afternoon nap in the shade, a chaise offers the perfect mix of comfort and style.

But with so many styles, materials, and features to choose from, finding the right one for your space can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to look for so you can pick the perfect chaise lounge for your backyard.

1. Start with Style: What Look Do You Love?

Chaise lounges come in a variety of designs—from laid-back resort vibes to more structured, tailored profiles. Think about the overall look of your outdoor space and what will complement it best.

• Clean & Relaxed: Look for wide-profile chaises with soft, cushioned seating for a resort-inspired feel.

• Streamlined & Transitional: Sling or padded sling chaises offer a more structured look that’s versatile enough to mix with many décor styles.

• Coastal & Casual: Wicker-style frames in natural tones work beautifully in beachy or relaxed backyard settings.
  

2. Choose the Right Material for Your Climate

The best chaise is the one that withstands the elements without requiring excessive maintenance. Here are a few of the top materials from Paddy O’ to consider:

• Powder-Coated Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and durable. Great for all climates and available in finishes that mimic everything from matte black to weathered wood.
  

• Bliss EcoLumber: A USA-made, eco-conscious option that won’t crack, rot, or fade—perfect for those who want minimal upkeep with long-term durability.

• All-Weather Wicker: Made from resin or HDPE, it offers the look of natural wicker with superior resistance to moisture, sun, and temperature shifts.

3. Cushion or No Cushion? Here’s How to Decide

• Cushioned Chaises are all about comfort. They offer plush support and are ideal if you’ll be lounging for longer periods. Look for outdoor-rated cushions that are quick-drying and UV-resistant like our famous Bliss and Bliss Ultra cushions.

• Padded Sling styles give a more tailored look without full cushions. They dry quickly and at Paddy O’ Furniture, they feature our famous Bliss fabric and are easy to maintain—perfect for poolside use. 

• Regular Sling chaises are sleek, breathable, and ultra-low maintenance. Great for hot climates and wet environments.

4. Check for Adjustable Features

Most chaise lounges feature adjustable backs—but the reclining mechanisms and range of motion can vary widely. If you enjoy sitting upright to read or lying fully flat to sunbathe, be sure to check how many reclining positions the chaise offers. Armless designs typically lay completely flat, offering maximum versatility, while many models with arms may not recline all the way.

Some chaise lounges also include wheels, making it easy to reposition them throughout the day to follow the sun. If mobility is a priority for your outdoor setup, opt for a wheeled model that allows you to effortlessly shift it around your patio as needed.

5. Match It to Your Space

Think about how you’ll use the chaise and where it will go:

• Poolside Lounging: Go for materials that resist chlorine, salt, and sun—like sling or aluminum.
  

• Small Patios: Look for slimmer profiles or chaises that coordinate with condo-sized furniture collections. Stackable chaises work great for small patios where you may not want them set up all the time.

• Entertaining Spaces: Mix chaises with modular seating or fire pit areas for a multi-use patio layout.

Ready to Lounge?

At Paddy O’ Furniture, we offer chaise lounges in a variety of materials, cushion options, and finishes—each designed with long-lasting comfort and style in mind. Whether you're outfitting a pool deck or creating a peaceful reading spot, there's a chaise for every space.

Need help choosing? Our team offers complimentary design consultations to help you find the perfect fit for your backyard.