Garden Furniture: Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about garden furniture, from materials and assembly to care and maintenance. Whether you're choosing a new set or looking after an existing one, this FAQ covers everything you need to know to make informed decisions. Browse below for quick, helpful guidance on getting the most out of your outdoor furniture.

Water-resistant: Item can resist small amounts of water, such as light rain or splashes, but water can still get through over time.

Waterproof: Item completely prevents water from entering, even in heavy rain or when submerged.

A modular garden furniture set is made up of separate pieces that can be arranged in different layouts to suit your space. The sections can be moved and configured in multiple ways, allowing you to change the setup depending on your needs or the size of your garden or patio.

You can tell if a garden furniture sofa set is right-handed or left-handed by looking at the longer section of the sofa when facing it.

If the longer section is on the right-hand side, it is a right-hand sofa set.

If the longer section is on the left-hand side, it is a left-hand sofa set.

Yes, your garden furniture set will have everything it needs to be put together, including fittings and instructions.

Most of our sets do not come fully assembled. However, they are supplied with all the necessary fittings and clear assembly instructions to help make the setup process as straightforward as possible.

You will need a 5kg propane gas bottle for the firepit on the furniture set.

Rattan garden furniture is not fully waterproof, but it is usually weather-resistant and designed to withstand light rain and outdoor conditions.

To help protect it and keep it in the best condition, we recommend using a protective cover when the furniture is not in use and storing cushions indoors or in a storage box.

Garden furniture is designed for outdoor use, but if it is left outside all year round and exposed to the elements, there is a possibility that rust may develop over time, particularly on metal components.

We highly recommend using a protective cover when your garden furniture set is not in use. This will help protect it from water damage, dirt, bird droppings, leaves, UV rays, and other outdoor elements, keeping your set in better condition for longer.

Find out here why you should use a garden furniture cover.

We also recommend removing the cushions and storing them indoors or in a garden storage box before covering the set, as this will help keep them clean, dry, and well protected

To maintain your garden furniture, clean it regularly with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals jet washers as they may damage the materials.

It is also recommended to use a protective cover when the furniture is not in use and store cushions indoors or in a storage box to keep them clean and dry. Regular care will help keep your furniture looking its best and extend its lifespan.

No, we do not recommend machine washing the cushion covers, as this can remove the coating that makes them water-resistant.

Instead, we recommend hand washing them gently to help maintain their protective properties and keep them in good condition.

It’s important to properly cover your outdoor furniture to help protect it from the elements.

1. Choose the right cover

Make sure the cover is the correct size and shape for your set. It should fit snugly without being too tight or too loose. You can cover the entire set together or use separate covers for individual pieces if needed.

2. Putting the cover on

Before covering the furniture, remove all cushions and store them indoors or in a garden storage box. Place the cover over the furniture so it fully protects the top, sides, and legs. Secure it using any elastic hems, drawstrings, or straps to prevent movement and water pooling.

3. Allow ventilation

If the cover has vents or air holes, make sure they are not blocked to allow airflow and help prevent moisture build-up.

4. Check regularly

Check the cover occasionally to ensure it is secure and free from pooled water or debris.

You can find the recommended cover for each furniture set attached to the product listing on our website.

If you’re unsure or would like some help choosing the correct cover, please get in contact with our team and we will be happy to assist you.

Yes, you can paint your wooden garden furniture. Before painting, make sure the furniture is clean, dry, and lightly sanded so the paint adheres properly. It is also recommended to use a suitable outdoor wood paint or treatment for the best results and protection.

As the product has been painted, this would void future warranty of the item.

No, unfortunately the furniture sets cannot be amended. Each set is sold as a complete package, so items such as parasols, stools, or other components cannot be removed or changed.

Unfortunately, we do not provide spare parts for the furniture sets listed on our website.

However, if your item is still within its warranty period, please contact our Customer Service team at [email protected], and we will be happy to assist you further.

We are able to hold garden furniture for up to 2 weeks after purchase. After this time, we may not be able to continue holding the order and delivery arrangements will need to be made.

We aim to deliver your garden furniture within 2–5 working days after placing your order. Our team will work with you to arrange a delivery day that suits you best.

Yes, we are still able to deliver to the Highlands. However, delivery may take a little longer than the standard 2–5 working day timeframe depending on the location.

Your order will be delivered by our carefully selected 2-person delivery service.

Once you place your order, a friendly member of our Customer Service team will contact you to arrange a suitable delivery date and book it in with the courier.

The day before your scheduled delivery, you will receive a text message from the courier with an estimated 2-hour delivery window.

On the day of delivery, the drivers will be happy to carry the boxes to your preferred location, as long as there is safe and sufficient access for them to do so. Please note that couriers are unable to unpack, assemble the furniture, or take away any packaging.

Unfortunately, our couriers do not unpack the items or take the cardboard packaging away.

We understand this may be inconvenient; however, we ask that you keep the original packaging. If you need to return the item for any reason, it must be returned in its original packaging.

In the unlikely event your garden furniture arrives damaged, please get in contact with us as soon as possible by email at [email protected] or phone by phone on 0345 077 0708. Our team will be more than happy to help and get the issue sorted for you.

Yes, there would be a return cost if you change your mind or if the set is unsuitable. The return shipping cost would be the responsibility of the customer.

If the set is damaged, please get in contact with our customer service team at [email protected].

a trustpilot banner showing that Charlies has been voted the UKs #1 outdoor furniture shop