As a designer, there are 9 things I’d never waste money on for an outdoor space

Though outdoor rugs can add warmth and definition to your patio, don’t let their initial charm deceive you.

A rug that needs to be replaced every two to four years to avoid turning into a mildew magnet can be a money pit.

Instead, opt for low-maintenance, budget-friendly rugs that can handle sudden downpours without becoming a soggy mess. Or, at the very least, can be affordably replaced.

Your outdoor paradise shouldn’t look like a landing strip for UFOs. Your lighting should be subtle and set the mood without causing neighbors to want to call the authorities.

Ditch excessive 60-watt lighting solutions for mid-range solar lights in soft white. Your neighbors will thank you for not turning the night into day.

I’d also be cautious with choosing LED lights. They can create a great, color-changing ambiance, but make sure you’re buying ones that are weather-resistant and energy-efficient.

If you want to flush your hard-earned cash down the drain, buy any outdoor furniture made with cotton, linen, polyester, or nylon.

Though they may appear inviting at first, fabrics that aren’t designed to endure the elements can quickly succumb to fading, tearing, and weathering.

Opt for high-quality outdoor fabrics specifically designed to brave the sun, rain, and wind without compromising aesthetics or comfort. For me, it’s polypropylene or bust.

Gnomes, flamingos, and a life-sized replica of the Statue of Liberty can be a little much for your lawn.

A touch of whimsy and personal expression is always welcome, but there’s a fine line between tasteful embellishment and what can only be described as an enchanted junkyard.

Maintaining an outdoor space that exudes harmony and visual delight requires a discerning eye for balance. The rule of less is more often holds true, especially when it comes to lawn ornaments.

Rather than overwhelming your space with ornaments that vie for attention, reign in the enthusiasm and curate a selection that truly resonates with your personal style.

Unless gardening is a genuine hobby, your yard should be a relaxing retreat, not a horticulture boot camp. High-maintenance plants can take away from the joy and relaxation that your outdoor haven is meant to provide.

A balanced mix of low-maintenance and resilient plants can create a garden that thrives with minimal intervention. Choose plants that harmonize with your lifestyle and the level of care you’re ready to provide.

Outdoor dining is a quintessential pleasure of the warmer months, and selecting the right table can significantly enhance this experience.

Sleek, chic, black-top metal dining tables can look sophisticated, but they’re often impractical as they absorb heat.

Remember, you’re here to enjoy a meal, not cook your forearms. It may be best to pick a lighter color or a different material. 

In the world of outdoor furniture, plastic might initially appear as the budget-friendly knight in shining armor.

However, like many too-good-to-be-true deals, the reality of plastic furniture reveals itself when the sun takes center stage.

I’ve fallen for the $300 plastic sofa-and-chair set a few times and watched as the sun burned a hole right through the seat after two summers.

Unless you want to consistently replace your furniture, consider materials that won’t burn up.

I, too, have been tempted by the allure of inflatable hot tubs because it seems like having a personal spa that you can deflate and store. But before you jump into a world of bubbly relaxation, consider the fine print.

Although inflatable tubs offer a cost-effective alternative to their permanent counterparts, they come with their own set of considerations.

Inflatable hot tubs don’t provide the same insulation and heat retention as traditional ones, so they may require more energy to maintain the desired temperature.

Plus, the quick and easy setup does not guarantee long-term durability. Keep in mind that bubbling bliss might come with a side of troubleshooting and a splash of disappointment.

Retaining walls often go unnoticed until they crumble, taking your hopes of a well-kept garden down with them.

I hate to see a brand-new retaining wall succumb to gravity less than half a year later.

The tale of improperly supported retaining walls is a cautionary saga that every landscaping enthusiast should know.

This story was originally published on August 22, 2023, and most recently updated on June 5, 2025.