The weather has warmed up and it's time to start thinking about spending more time outdoors. The only problem is that your outdoor furniture has seen better days. Before you break out your credit card, check out these five ways to save on outdoor furniture.
1. Recycle What You Already Have
Okay, so you may not be happy with the color of your outdoor furniture or the cushions. That doesn't mean you have to toss it. Purchase a can of spray paint that works on all types of materials and go to work. You can find spray paint in just about any color and it's such an affordable option. Even buying new cushions can be so much cheaper than buying new furniture. If your cushions are in great shape, you can also purchase outdoor fabric and create new covers to slip over the old cushions.
2. Shop Yard Sales and Thrift Stores
Some people have the money to change their furniture whenever the mood strikes. Take advantage of this by hitting yard sales and thrift stores. This is such a great way to save money and, if you're creative with upcycling, you can take worn out pieces and make them new again. Another great place to look is at flea markets. These people have to load the stuff back up at the end of the day and may be willing to cut you an awesome deal.
3. Take Your Friend's “Old” Furniture Off Their Hands
Have a friend that's getting rid of their old outdoor dining table or chairs? Take them off their hands. The different look may be all you need to spruce up your outdoor space, but again, you can always make the pieces look better with a bit of paint and new fabric.
4. Hit the Discount Department Stores
If you do have to shop in stores, hit the discount department stores, like Big Lots, first. You can find amazing deals at these places. The important thing is to have a list of what you need, the measurements of the areas you're filling, and a budget.
5. Watch for Sales
Last, but not least, look for those sales. Places like Lowe's can have some really awesome deals. If you purchase with your Lowe's card, you'll even save an additional 5% - just make sure you pay off the balance when the bill comes. When shopping stores like these, make sure you comparison shop for the best deals.
You don't have to spend a fortune creating a welcoming outdoor space. Whether you work with what you already have or scope out the best deals, you can save on outdoor furniture.
Julie @ Logger's Wife says
We were gifted some money last year so I used them to buy new chairs and an umbrella for our patio table. The first umbrella I purchased managed to be picked up by a very slight wind and destroyed a couple days later. I was not impressed with the quality. Thankfully, Walmart took it back. I looked around at different stores and found one that was better and marked down to cheaper than what I originally spent! Waiting until mid-summer can really make a difference with price. (visiting from Thrifty Thursday)
Corrie C says
Thanks for the great idea to wait for the sales when the stores want to clear out summer merchandise. Glad you were able to return the umbrella!