Are you looking to upgrade your patio, deck, or outdoor area with affordable, durable, and easy-to-maintain outdoor furniture? If so, sling patio furniture may be the perfect option for you. Sling patio furniture has many advantages, which could be ideal for your backyard.
To learn more, keep reading below!
What is Sling?
Sling patio furniture is made of a fabric material stretched over what is typically a metal frame; in some cases, the frame can also be wooden. Sling is a mesh fabric that is typically made from a vinyl coated (PVC) polyester, olefin, or acrylic fabric. You will find some common brands of sling material like Textiline, Phifertex, and Sunbrella Sling.
Is sling a good patio furniture material?
Absolutely! Sling patio furniture is an excellent option for the outdoors because it is durable and easy to maintain. The material is also breathable, which prevents mold and mildew from forming. Sling furniture is also comfortable and can be used in various settings such as poolside, on the deck, or in the garden.
Sling
Material Rating
Pros
- Highly weather resistant; waterproof and fade-resistant
- Little maintenance is required
- Very affordable
Cons
- Durability and weather-resistance can vary for low cost options
Sling outdoor furniture options
The Pros and Cons of Sling Outdoor Furniture
#1 Pro: Sling won't hold water
One of the best advantages of sling patio furniture is that it doesn’t hold water. The PVC coating on the fabric is impervious to water, and the mesh design of the fabric allows water to pass directly through. This means that even after a rainstorm, your furniture will dry quickly and won’t become waterlogged like other materials might.
This means that outdoor sling furniture can also be great as poolside furniture. The furniture can get wet without issue, won’t become damaged from pool chemicals or saltwater, and dries quickly.
#2 Pro: Sling is resistant to UV damage
Another great advantage of sling patio furniture is that it is resistant to UV damage. The PVC coating on the fabric protects the material from fading in direct sunlight. This is an important consideration if you live in a sunny climate or plan to use your furniture outdoors for extended periods of time.
We note that some sling can be expected to perform better in the sun than others. So, a lower quality sling may fade over time than higher-quality sling brands.
#3 Pro: Sling outdoor furniture is often very affordable
When it comes to any outdoor furniture, one of the main concerns is cost. Luckily, sling patio furniture is often very affordable, making it an excellent option for those who are working with a tight budget.
We constantly research and compare outdoor furniture prices, and we often find that sling patio furniture is typically priced in the lower range for any patio furniture. If you are looking to add any furniture to your outdoor area for as low of a cost as possible, you should consider some type of sling furniture.
#4 Pro: Sling material can be very durable
While the PVC coating on sling patio furniture is impervious to water, it is also very strong and durable. This means that it can withstand a lot of wear and tear without showing any signs of damage. In most cases, sling patio furniture can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
#5 Con: The durability of some outdoor sling furniture can be limited
While most sling patio furniture is durable, some brands and types may not be as durable as others. In particular, a lower-quality sling may fade or tear more easily than higher-quality options.
Additionally, some frame materials may not be of the highest quality. For example, even though a low-cost sling chair may have a powder-coated steel frame, our experience finds that some low-cost powder coating may easily degrade or chip, which can lead to rusting.
This is something to keep in mind if you are considering purchasing low-cost sling furniture.
#6 Pro: Sling seating is very comfortable
Sling patio furniture is very comfortable because the fabric is stretched tightly over the frame, providing support and cushioning. The sling provides enough tension to support and conform to your body to give a very comfortable feel. Additionally, the fabric is breathable, making it ideal for hot climates. Some people prefer the feel of sling over cushioned outdoor furniture.
#7 Pro: Some sling furniture has padding for extra comfort
While most sling patio furniture is comfortable, some brands and types include padding for even more comfort. This can be a great option if you plan to use your furniture for extended periods of time or if you want the absolute highest level of comfort. Padding also tends to make furniture look a bit nicer and can add a touch of luxury.
This type of furniture will have two layers of sling material with some kind of padding inserted between the layers. The padding material is usually a quick-drying and water-resistant material.
#8 Pro: Sling furniture is easy to maintain
Sling patio furniture is very easy to take care of and keep clean. The smooth surface of the fabric repels dirt and water, making it easy to wipe down or hose off. Additionally, the PVC coating makes the material resistant to staining. In most cases, you will only need a hose or damp cloth to wash down the furniture to clean away any dirt or debris.
#9 Pro: Sling patio furniture can be easy to move
One of the benefits of sling patio furniture is that it can be very easy to move around. The lightweight fabric and simple construction make it easy to pick up and carry. You will find that many sling furniture pieces will be made with aluminum, which is a lightweight metal. Thus, a sling patio furniture piece with an aluminum frame can be effortless to move.
However, this lightweight nature can also be a disadvantage if you have high winds or other weather conditions that could cause the furniture to blow away. If you don’t store or secure your furniture in these inclement weather situations, you made find your furniture in another part of your yard or at the bottom of your pool!
#10 Pro: There are many types of sling patio furniture
Sling patio furniture comes in a wide variety of seating types. You will find a wide selection of options like chaise lounges, lounge chairs, dining sets, and more to fit your seating needs. No matter what type of outdoor furniture you are looking for, there is likely a sling option available.
This gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to decorating your patio or outdoor living space. You can mix and match different pieces to create the perfect look for your home.
#11 Pro: You can find sling furniture in many colors to fit your style
Sling patio furniture is also very versatile when it comes to design. You will find that sling furniture can be made in various colors and patterns, which gives you many options to choose from to find the perfect look for your patio. Whether you want a bright and bold color or a more subdued and classic look, there is likely a sling fabric that will fit your style.
