Best sun loungers: 6 top buys to relax in gardens big and small

Sun loungers are a must this staycation summer, especially with the very warm weather we're having. Unpack, recline, and relax...Don't like too much sun in your face? Several of our picks have sun shades or canopies to protect you from strong sun. 

We've rounded up the best sun loungers currently on the market that combine the best design, quality of materials, and ease of use. From budget sun loungers to luxury double sofa loungers, we've got them all on our list.

Prefer sitting up? Check out our pick of the best garden chairs.

• Need more advice? Find out how to choose garden furniture

The best sun loungers

This reclining chair is lightweight and easy to position for the perfect sunbathing angle. It folds away neatly, making it easy to store in a shed or garage. These recliners also have integrated  head rests for the most comfortable recline and they come with a side table and sun shade; the ultimate value in the world of sun loungers.

• Buy the Monaco Zero Gravity Reclining Garden Chair

If you’re out in the garden every chance you get, then the is a great design to have. The frame and fabric are UV resistant, anti-fungal and tear resistant, so you can expect this lounger to last very well. It’s fully adjustable with a removable headrest and it is also easy to maintain and wipe clean. Users say it is reasonably lightweight so it can also be taken on days out to the beach and it is said to be smooth and easy to collapse and recline at your leisure.  

• Buy the Lafuma sun lounger

For the ultimate luxury day in the sun, this lounger from Blumfeldt gives you the choice to enjoy good weather while staying protected from UV radiation with the UV resistant roof (it can also be removed if you prefer). The lounger itself is comfortable thanks to its ergonomic, wave-shaped design and mesh-like material that gives plenty of support. What users especially like about this sun lounger is how spacious it is – a full two metres in width, which will comfortably accommodate two people.  

• Buy The Big Easy swing lounger

This practical sun lounger is very, very comfy thanks to its flexible yet sturdy fabric – which comes in two on-trend colours, charcoal and greige. It's really stable and reliable, and will take up to 290 pounds in weight – not bad for a lightweight sun lounger that completely folds away and takes up hardly any room. The sun shade and cushion are both welcome additions. The only thing we're not keen on is the frame itself – the sturdiness comes at a slight sacrifice to design.

• Buy the Songmics sun lounger

Is is a sun lounger, a sofa, or a bed? The answer is: it's all of them at once, and whatever you want it to be. You perfect staycation companion, or that crucial piece of garden furniture for creating an out door living room, this sunbed is so much more than just a sun lounger. It's sun, salt, chlorine, and sun lotion resistant, while the cushions are water repellant, making it possible to leave them out in a shower or two. The best options for a larger garden or deck.

• Buy the Outsunny 2 seater Sun Lounger Sofa Bed

The Oleron lounger is beautifully crafted from FSC-certified teak, making it natural and durable – it will look very chic on a deck or by a swimming pool. The castors make it very easy to move around, and the side table is handy for drinks or a book. It is a shame that the beautiful stripy mattress in the photo doesn't come with it, as it's already quite expensive. 

• Buy the Oleron sun lounger

What is the best sun lounger? 

The best sun lounger is the chic Venice 'Steamer' Sunlounger from John Lewis. It wins on comfort, design, and sustainability. If you want two great sun loungers at a great price, go for the Montreal pair from Dunelm. No time to read the rest of the article? Here are all the best models and where to buy them:

How to buy the best sun loungers

When considering which garden sun loungers are best for you, material is a big factor. If you go for wooden garden recliners, such as the John Lewis Venice 'Steamer' Sunlounger, then remember that these look stylish but do require some upkeep. You’ll need to stain them every summer to ensure they keep their new, pristine finish; otherwise the wood will fade and deteriorate over time. 

Metal recliner chairs such as the Montreal sun loungers don’t require as much maintenance but will need to be covered over or stored away when not in use to ensure they don’t rust. You may also want to consider if your recliner comes with cushions, as this will be something else you need to factor into your budget if not. Check out the full list below for some garden inspiration.  

Read more:

• For more advice and buys, go to our garden ideas page
• Check out the best rattan garden furniture 
• That's the furniture sorted: now create an amazing look for your deck