The Blog · Page 27 of 34
Guides, Reviews & Ideas
Honest outdoor living advice from someone who actually sits on this stuff. Fire pits, patios, grills, and everything in between.
Best Charcoal Smokers for Backyard BBQ
Six charcoal smokers from $199, covering offset, bullet, and kamado styles for backyard pitmasters who want real BBQ flavor without the guesswork.
Grills & CookingBest Cast Iron for Outdoor Grills and Fire Pits
Six cast iron picks for outdoor grills and fire pits, starting at $35. From Lodge's Combo Cooker to Bruntmor's 7-piece set, built for real fire.
Outdoor FurnitureBest 2-Piece Outdoor Wicker Sofa Sets Under $800
Six PE wicker sofa sets for smaller patios, starting at $289. Real picks comparing cushion quality, frame durability, and style.
Pergolas & ShadeWood vs. Vinyl Pergola: Which Should You Buy?
Side-by-side comparison of wood and vinyl pergolas covering cost, maintenance, and DIY-friendliness. Real picks starting at $899.
Outdoor FurnitureWicker vs Aluminum Patio Furniture: Pros & Cons
All-weather wicker vs powder-coated aluminum patio furniture compared on durability, maintenance, and style. Top picks starting at $389.
HeatingPropane vs Natural Gas Patio Heaters: Which Is Better?
Propane or natural gas for your patio heater? We break down cost, heat output, and installation with top picks starting at $149.
Outdoor LivingHow to Host a Backyard Spring Garden Party
Set up a spring garden party for 15-20 guests with $45 linen tablecloths, string lights, grazing boards, and fresh flower centerpieces.
LightingHow to Create an Overhead String Light Canopy
Step-by-step guide to building a backyard string light canopy using poles, guide wire, and the right hooks. Includes picks starting at $16.
DIY & IdeasHow to Create a Backyard Reading Nook
Build a private outdoor reading retreat with the right shade, seating, and lighting. Starts with a $35 shade sail and five smart picks.
LightingBest Smart Outdoor Lights for Patio and Deck
Top app-controlled smart outdoor lights for patios and decks. From Philips Hue spotlights to Govee rope lights, starting at $35.
AccessoriesBest Self-Watering Planters for Patio Container Gardens
From $22 starter pots to 31-gallon veggie beds, these self-watering planters keep herbs, flowers, and tomatoes thriving with far less daily watering.
LightingBest Outdoor Wall Sconces for Porch and Patio
Top outdoor wall sconces for every porch style, from modern black hardwired to plug-in and solar lanterns. Picks start at $38.
AccessoriesBest Outdoor Serving Carts for Patio Entertaining
The best outdoor serving carts for hosting, from the Weber 7107 at $44 to the Keter Unity XL at $249. Six real picks for real patios.
SeatingBest Outdoor Sectionals for Small Patios
5 compact outdoor sectionals that fit a 10x10 patio without crowding it. The COSIEST 4-piece L-shape starts at $469 and works great in tight corners.
Outdoor DecorBest Outdoor Plant Stands for Patios and Porches
Best outdoor plant stands for patios and porches, from a $28 wrought iron single-pot stand to a $48 five-tier display that holds 8 plants.
Grills & CookingBest Outdoor Kitchen Sinks and Faucets 2026
Top outdoor kitchen prep sinks from $149, including drop-in, undermount, and freeze-proof faucet setups for year-round grill islands.
AccessoriesBest Outdoor Coolers for Your Patio (2026)
The 6 best patio coolers tested for real backyard use, from the YETI Tundra 45 ($350) to budget hard-sided picks under $100.
Outdoor FurnitureBest Outdoor Bar Height Tables for Patio Bars
Top outdoor bar height tables in teak, aluminum, wicker, and more. Build a real backyard bar setup starting around $109.
Pergolas & ShadeWood vs Aluminum vs Vinyl Pergola: Which Wins?
Compare wood, aluminum, and vinyl pergolas on cost, upkeep, and lifespan. Real picks from $499 to $1,299 to help you commit before you buy.
Grills & CookingGas vs Pellet Grill: Which One Is Right for You?
Gas grill or pellet smoker? We compare flavor, cost, and convenience with top picks like the Traeger Pro 575 at $649 to help you choose.
Grills & CookingCharcoal vs Electric Smoker: Which to Buy
Charcoal or electric smoker? Compare flavor, ease, and cost with top picks like the Pit Barrel Cooker and Masterbuilt 30" starting under $300.
Outdoor LivingBest Pool Floats and Floating Loungers for Summer
The best pool floats for adults in 2026, from the $28 Intex River Run to a $99 FUNBOY Cloud Float. Real picks for real backyards.
MaintenanceBest Patio Heater Covers Worth Buying
Protect your propane, pyramid, and tabletop patio heaters year-round. Our top picks start at $22 and actually stay put in the wind.
Outdoor DecorBest Outdoor Planters for Full Sun Patios
The best heat-tolerant planters for south-facing patios in 2026. Fiberglass and resin options starting around $34 that won't crack, fade, or warp.