An outdoor ottoman is the unsung hero of patio decor. It effortlessly bridges the gap between style and function, offering a spot to prop your feet, extra seating for guests, a sturdy surface for drinks, and often, clever hidden storage. Choosing the right one can tie your entire outdoor living space together, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment.
With so many materials, styles, and sizes available, finding the perfect match for your patio can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a selection of top-rated options. This roundup highlights eight excellent outdoor ottomans, from durable all-weather wicker to classic Adirondack styles, each offering unique benefits to enhance your outdoor area.
Our Selection of Top Outdoor Ottomans
- Household Essentials Handwoven Resin Storage Stool Ottoman
- Christopher Knight Home Faux Leather Storage Ottoman Cube
- Best Choice Products Set of 2 Wicker Ottomans with Cushions
- POLYWOOD Classic Adirondack Ottoman, Pacific Blue
- Weture 30 Inch Large Square Storage Ottoman Coffee Table
- Outsunny 30-inch Outdoor Patio Square Storage Ottoman with Cushion
- MCombo Outdoor Patio Furniture 3-Piece Set with Ottoman
- SunVilla 30-inch Outdoor Square Storage Ottoman with Removable Cushion
Household Essentials Handwoven Resin Storage Stool Ottoman
This handwoven resin stool brings a warm, bohemian feel to any patio. Its rich brown weave is not just for looks; it’s crafted around a sturdy metal frame for reliable support and lasting durability. The natural texture works well with various outdoor styles, from tropical to rustic.
Beyond its attractive appearance, this piece is highly versatile. Use it as a low side table for drinks and snacks, an impromptu stool for extra seating, a comfortable footrest, or even as a decorative storage basket for small outdoor items. Its compact 16-inch diameter makes it easy to move and place wherever you need it.
Christopher Knight Home Faux Leather Storage Ottoman Cube
For a more structured and modern look, this square ottoman offers a clean silhouette with button-tufted detail. Its faux leather upholstery in brown presents a sophisticated aesthetic that can complement both indoor and covered outdoor spaces. The design is simple enough to pair with a wide range of existing furniture.
Functionality is a key strength, thanks to its hinged lid that opens to reveal ample hidden storage. It’s ideal for stowing outdoor cushions, throws, or garden tools to maintain a tidy patio. Built to be robust, this ottoman can support up to 250 pounds, ensuring it can handle use as a seat, footrest, or sturdy coffee table alternative.
Best Choice Products Set of 2 Wicker Ottomans with Cushions
This two-piece set provides excellent value and flexibility for your patio. Crafted from all-weather wicker wrapped around a steel frame, these ottomans are designed to resist the elements and provide long-lasting service. The polished aluminum feet add to the durability and protect the base from moisture.
Each ottoman features a removable top for easy access to hidden storage, perfect for small outdoor items. The included beige cushions are thick for comfort and are secured with straps, yet can be detached for cleaning or storage. Having two ottomans allows you to configure your space as needed—use them together as a coffee table or separate them for additional seating.
POLYWOOD Classic Adirondack Ottoman, Pacific Blue
Made from genuine POLYWOOD lumber, this ottoman is built for a lifetime of outdoor use. The material is a proprietary blend of plastics, including recycled content, making it exceptionally resistant to rot, cracks, splinters, and UV fading. The vibrant Pacific Blue color will stay bright season after season with minimal maintenance.
This ottoman is specifically designed to pair with the classic Adirondack chair, creating a perfect spot to relax and put your feet up. A highly practical feature is its ability to fold completely flat, making winter storage or transportation exceptionally easy. It’s a timeless, eco-friendly choice focused on durability and classic comfort.
Weture 30 Inch Large Square Storage Ottoman Coffee Table
This oversized square ottoman makes a substantial statement and offers maximum utility. Its generous 30-inch square surface area functions brilliantly as a central coffee table for a patio seating group, providing plenty of room for trays, plants, and decor. The tufted dark grey fabric adds a touch of softness and contemporary style.
Under the hinged lid lies a significant storage compartment, ideal for larger items like outdoor pillows, blankets, or games. Constructed with a solid wood frame and thick legs, it is rated to hold up to 300 pounds, confirming its use as a sturdy seat or table. Its multipurpose design adapts to your needs, whether in a sunroom, on a covered patio, or indoors.
Outsunny 30-inch Outdoor Patio Square Storage Ottoman with Cushion
Outsunny’s offering is a dedicated outdoor storage ottoman designed with practicality in mind. It typically features a square shape with a weather-resistant cushion for added comfort, making it suitable for use as a seat or footrest. The construction usually involves powder-coated steel and durable outdoor fabric to withstand sun and rain.
The main appeal is the combination of comfortable seating and hidden storage in one piece. The lift-top lid allows for easy access to the interior space, which is perfect for keeping your patio essentials organized and out of sight. This type of ottoman serves as a functional centerpiece that helps reduce clutter in your outdoor living area.
MCombo Outdoor Patio Furniture 3-Piece Set with Ottoman
This option is ideal for someone looking to furnish a small patio space in one coordinated purchase. The set typically includes two chairs and a matching storage ottoman, ensuring a cohesive look without the hassle of mixing and matching separate pieces. The design often focuses on comfort and compact efficiency.
The included ottoman provides the valuable dual function of a footrest or extra table surface plus storage, while the chairs offer dedicated seating. Sets like these are convenient and can represent good value, providing all the basic pieces needed to create an instant conversation area on your deck or patio.
SunVilla 30-inch Outdoor Square Storage Ottoman with Removable Cushion
SunVilla is known for outdoor furniture, and this storage ottoman is built with weather-resistant materials suited for patio life. It features a sturdy frame and a removable cushion, which is a practical advantage for easy cleaning and storage during inclement weather. The square shape offers a stable surface and modern lines.
The storage compartment is a key feature, helping to maximize space in your outdoor area. The removable cushion also allows you to update the look or comfort level over time. This ottoman is designed to be a resilient and useful piece that can handle exposure to the elements while keeping your patio organized.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Ottomans for Patios
When I’m looking for furniture for my patio, I want pieces that are both stylish and tough enough to handle the weather. An outdoor ottoman is a perfect example—it’s a versatile spot to put your feet up, extra seating when friends come over, or even a makeshift side table. But not all ottomans are built for life outside. Here’s what I always consider to find the right one.
First, and most importantly, is the material. This is the biggest difference between indoor and outdoor ottomans. You need something that can resist sun, rain, and maybe even a bit of snow. I look for frames made from rust-proof aluminum, powder-coated steel, or all-weather wicker (which is usually resin over a metal frame). For the cushion or fabric, solution-dyed acrylics like Sunbrella are my top pick. They don’t fade easily and dry quickly after a rain shower. If you want less maintenance, consider a solid teak or polywood ottoman with no fabric at all.
Next, think about the size and shape. A large square ottoman can be a great footrest for a deep sofa, while a set of smaller round ones can be moved around easily. I measure my space carefully, thinking about how the ottoman will fit with my existing chairs or lounge. Also, consider the height. It should be close to the seat height of your main chairs for comfortable use.
Function is a huge factor. Do you want hidden storage inside? This is a game-changer for stashing outdoor pillows, throws, or pool toys to keep the patio tidy. Some ottomans even have a reversible top that flips from a soft cushion to a hard tray surface for drinks. If you plan to use it as extra seating often, make sure the weight capacity is solid and the base is stable.
Finally, don’t forget about style and comfort. Your outdoor ottomans for patios should complement your overall look, whether that’s modern, coastal, or rustic. A pop of color from a cushion can really brighten the space. And if comfort is key, look for plush, thick cushions filled with quick-dry foam. By balancing these factors—durability, size, function, and style—you’ll find an ottoman that looks great and works hard for your outdoor living area.
FAQ
Can I use a regular indoor ottoman outside?
I really don’t recommend it. Indoor ottomans are made from materials like untreated wood, certain metals that rust, and fabrics that aren’t UV or water-resistant. Leaving one outside will likely lead to quick fading, mold, mildew, and structural damage from moisture. Always choose pieces specifically designed for outdoor use to ensure they last.
How do I clean my outdoor ottoman?
It depends on the material. For resin wicker or plastic frames, a mix of mild soap and warm water with a soft brush usually does the trick. For solution-dyed acrylic cushions, you can often use a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly; always check the manufacturer’s tag. For teak, a special teak cleaner can help remove grayness. The key is regular, gentle cleaning to prevent deep-set dirt.
Do outdoor ottomans need to be covered or stored in winter?
It’s the best way to extend their life. Even weather-resistant materials can suffer from prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, ice, and heavy snow. If you can, store them in a garage or shed. If not, a high-quality, breathable waterproof cover is a must. Make sure the ottoman is clean and completely dry before covering it to trap moisture.
What is the best base for an outdoor ottoman on a grass or dirt surface?
Stability is crucial on soft ground. I look for ottomans with a wide, solid base or legs that are designed not to sink. Some have a solid plastic base that distributes weight evenly. Alternatively, you can place patio deck tiles or a small, flat stone paver underneath the legs to create a stable, level surface and prevent sinking.
Are there any safety tips for using storage ottomans outdoors?
Yes, a couple are important. First, if it has a hinged lid, ensure it has a slow-close mechanism or a support to hold it open, so it doesn’t slam shut on fingers. Second, because they can hold water, always check and empty the storage area after rain to avoid a heavy, waterlogged unit or creating a mosquito breeding spot. Drill a few small drainage holes in the bottom if the manufacturer hasn’t.
How can I make my outdoor ottoman more comfortable?
If the cushion is a bit thin, I add an outdoor-rated pillow or a foldable blanket on top for extra padding. You can also look for deeper, plush cushions made with quick-dry foam as replacements. For a firm, non-cushioned ottoman, consider an outdoor seat pad that can be tied on or removed easily when not needed. This lets you customize the comfort level for your perfect patio setup.