You might think buying outdoor garden furniture [http://www.dobbies.co.uk/acatalog/Garden-Furniture.html] is simple but there are certain considerations that have to be attended to before you part with your cash. Don't buy in haste and repent at leisure. If you want to enjoy your garden to its full potential, you have to get the right garden furniture. So here's a guide to help you in your quest:

Material

Think about what you want most from the material of your outdoor garden furniture. Are you most concerned about the way it looks or do you want something hardwearing? Are you prepared to put in the effort to maintain the furniture or would you like something that requires the minimum maintenance?

Wooden garden furniture is available in many different styles and is a popular choice but it does usually require regular maintenance and you need to know how to get the best out of it. There are other more durable materials such as metal and plastic although you might be more limited when it comes to style with these. So it's a case of weighing up the pros and cons and deciding which is right for you.

Space

It seems so obvious and basic but it's easy to forget that your outdoor garden furniture has to fit in the space you have at your disposal. You can get carried away and end up taking up all the space you have with too much furniture. Do your measurements thoroughly and try to plan exactly where you intend to put the items of furniture. Don't forget that not only do you need room for your tables and chairs but also space to walk around them and get in and out.

Style

Have a good think about this because it might not be as obvious as it seems. Of course, you will have a style preference but will it be compatible with your garden and your home in general? Think about which style of outdoor garden furniture will go best in your garden. Try to picture it in place. Will it also go with the styles you have throughout your home? You want it to stand out but you don't want it to appear incongruous. Above all, though, your garden furniture set has to be of a style which is practical for your needs, so keep that uppermost in your mind.

Storage

It's all very well choosing outdoor garden furniture that looks great and is highly functional in situ, but you have to also consider where it's going to go when it's not in use. Do you have plenty of space to store it in, say, your garage, garden shed or conservatory? Would a foldable design help you out with this? If you have to leave it in place, do you also have the budget for suitable garden furniture covers, etc?

Comfort

So your garden furniture looks great and fits your space well - but that's no good if it's not comfortable or impractical to use. You might want to invest in some garden furniture cushions and accessories to maximise comfort and practicality.

Shade

Don't forget you will want respite from the sun on those glorious summer days. So don't skimp on the parasol - and make sure it fits in well with the furniture you have.

Good luck, and enjoy the fresh air!