They say that summer is all about having new adventures and trying new experiences. This might be true, however, we all know that summer is also about lying in your back garden with a large beverage of choice in your hand. If you’re anything like us, you’ll have plenty of garden sunbathing on the summer agenda this year. This type of agenda of course requires the perfect sun lounger. How do you pick the right one? It helps to start your search by consider the following factors:
Type – Fixed, Recliner Or Daybed?
Whilst admittedly all sun loungers might look pretty much the same, there’s actually a huge range of designs out there. The most common garden sun loungers are fixed sunbeds, recliners or daybeds. Deciding which type is right for you ultimately depends on how much space you have, as well as personal preference.
Fixed sunbeds are pretty comfortable if you’re happy to sunbathe in the same position every time, however they don’t offer you much flexibility. If you want a little more flexibility, then a recliner is the better option. These sun loungers allow you to adjust position according to what you find most comfortable. The Bramblecrest Portofino Lounger for example allows you to sunbathe in three different positions according to your preference. Many reclining sun loungers are also foldable. This is super helpful for storing them away compactly on days when the weather is less reliable (this is pretty important if the British summer is anything to go by!).
The only thing that can make napping in the garden even better is napping in the garden on an actual bed. So why not consider a garden daybed this summer? The Kettler Elba Daybed features deep-fill cushions plus multiple reclining settings for maximum comfort, including the ability to recline the backs in both directions, in tandem or singularly. It also benefits from an overhead canopy to keep you cool and comfortable when the weather is particularly hot.
The Bramblecrest Monterey Large Dining Daybed is another great option for achieving ultimate summer goals. Offering plenty of room for 4 to lay out in comfort, this clever daybed lounger also transforms into a comfortable dining area when the time calls for it. For some a daybed/dining suite is preferable as it packs two uses into one handy unit.
Material & Style
It’s also important to consider material when choosing the best sun lounger. This will have a big impact on the look of the lounger, as well as the comfort levels. Most sun loungers tend to be made of the following materials:
Rattan: Sometimes classic is best, and this is often the case with rattan garden sun loungers. Not only does rattan have a timeless finish, it’s also lightweight and resistant to UV and showers.
Metal: A metal sun lounger is an ideal option if you’re looking to add a more modern feel to the garden. Metal sun loungers are sturdy and easy to maintain. Aluminium loungers like the Bramblecrest La Rochelle Sun Lounger provide the perfect combination of practicality & style. The aluminium on this sun lounger is powder coated to prevent any unsightly oxidation.
Wood: Wood is another good option for timeless style, seeing as it goes with all different types of garden decor. It undoubtedly looks fantastic in most gardens, but the only drawback of a wooden sun lounger is that it can be more susceptible to damage, particularly if left untreated.
Portability
When soaking up the sunshine the last thing you need is your zen being disrupted by lugging a heavy sun lounger around the garden in order to follow the sun. That’s why portability & weight are really important factors to consider when finding your perfect sun lounger. The lighter the better, as this will make it easier to move your furniture about and store it away. This is why we’ve ensured that all the loungers featured in the IOL range are made using lightweight frames, but at absolutely no cost to durability and strength. Some even have wheels attached, like the Kettler Surf Active Folding Lounger. This allows you to maximise your sunbathing position with minimum effort.
Extras
Are there any extra features that will enhance your sunbathing experience? For example, are snacks and wine simply a must-have when sunbathing? We certainly think so, which is why many of our sun loungers feature side tables for holding your favourite snacks and beverages. If sunbathing refreshments are essential for you, make sure to check out the Hartman Heritage Reclining Companion Set, Bramblecrest Tetbury Sun Lounger Set and Bramblecrest Monterey recliner sets.
For further guidance on finding the perfect sun lounger for the summer season, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
