Can Bamboo Furniture Be Left Outside?

Bamboo furniture is popular for indoor and outdoor settings due to its natural beauty, durability, and eco-friendliness. But, can bamboo furniture withstand the elements if left outside? In this guide, we’ll explore the characteristics of bamboo, the challenges of outdoor exposure, and best practices for maintaining bamboo furniture in outdoor environments.

Bamboo is a highly sustainable and versatile material and has many uses, including construction, food, biofuel - and furniture making! Praised for its strength, flexibility, and rapid growth rate, bamboo is an environmentally friendly choice when deciding on your home furniture. Bamboo furniture is known for its elegant, natural aesthetic, which can enhance any space, indoors or outdoors - adding character and a delicate feel to your interior.

The Characteristics of Bamboo

Before we decide whether bamboo furniture can be left outside, it’s important to understand its properties:

• Durability - Bamboo is incredibly strong and durable making it a great material to use for chairs, tables, and bed frames.
• Flexibility - Bamboo's natural flexibility allows it to withstand various stresses without breaking.
• Sustainability - Bamboo grows quickly and replenishes rapidly, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable furniture choice. 
• Aesthetic Appeal - Its natural grain and colour add a unique touch to furniture, complementing a range of interior styles such as modern, contemporary, minimalist, boho, shabby chic, Scandinavian, and more.

So, can bamboo furniture be left outside? Yes, bamboo is generally considered weather-resistant, and it can be left outside. However, as much as it is durable, it is still susceptible to damage.

Challenges of Outdoor Exposure and Bamboo

• Moisture and humidity - bamboo is susceptible to moisture damage. Prolonged exposure to rain or high humidity can cause it to swell up, warp, or develop mould and mildew.
• Sunlight - direct sunlight can cause bamboo to dry out, leading to cracks and fading. 
• Temperature fluctuations - extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the integrity of bamboo, causing it to expand and contrast, which may result in splitting. 
• Pest - bamboo can attract insects, particularly if not properly treated or maintained.

Best Practices for Outdoor Bamboo Furniture

Luckily, there are some things you can do to increase the longevity of your bamboo furniture if you use it outside. To extend the life of bamboo furniture when used outdoors, we recommend following these tips:

Treatment and Sealing of Bamboo

One of the most effective ways to protect bamboo furniture from the elements is by applying a water-resistant sealant or varnish. This treatment helps to create a barrier against moisture, preventing the bamboo from absorbing water which can lead to swelling, warping, and mould growth. 

Ensure that you select a high-quality sealant, apply it every 6 to 12 months, and ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly coated.

Many of our bamboo furniture collection comes pre-treated with wood oils to help improve the weather resistance. 

The Tine K Home Natural Bamboo Dining Table is perfect for outdoor dining, allowing you to experience al fresco dining in your garden. The frame is treated with a water-based natural wood oil to ensure it is more resistant to weather.

Proper Placement

Where you place your bamboo furniture can significantly impact its longevity. To minimise exposure to the elements we recommend the following:

• Position your bamboo in shaded areas.
• Keep bamboo furniture on patio areas to avoid contact with damp soil or grass, which can accelerate moisture absorption.
• Avoid wind-prone areas.

Regular Maintenance

Maintaining bamboo furniture involves regular cleaning and care to keep it looking its best and prevent it from damage: 

• Clean the furniture gently and regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove any dirt and grime.
• Routinely check for signs of wear, such as cracks or loose joints, and repair issues promptly.
• If you notice any mould, clean it off immediately with a mixture of water and white vinegar, or a specialised cleanser. 

Use Protective Covers

Protective covers are an excellent way to shield bamboo furniture from the elements when it’s not in use:

• Invest in high-quality, waterproof covers that fit snugly over your furniture to keep out moisture and debris.
• Ensure the covers have secure fastenings, such as ties or elastic hems, to keep them in place during windy conditions. 

The Tine K Home Natural Bamboo Couch with Cushion is treated with water-based natural wood oil and also comes with a cover to protect the cushions and frame from dew and light rain.

Store During Harsh Weather

Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or intense heat, can be particularly damaging to bamboo furniture. During such weather conditions, we recommend moving the furniture indoors to a dry, climate-controlled environment whenever possible. Fortunately, bamboo is light in nature and shouldn’t weigh too much, so this shouldn’t be too difficult to move around. 

By following these best practices, you can enjoy the natural beauty and durability of your bamboo furniture in your outdoor space for many years to come. Proper care and maintenance are key to ensuring that your investment remains in excellent condition despite exposure to the elements.

How Can Bamboo Furniture Complement My Exterior Space?

Bamboo furniture can add a light, airy, and relaxed feel to your home’s exterior. Its lightweight nature and natural look can blend in seamlessly with your outdoor space, allowing you to feel connected to and immersed in nature and your outdoor environment. 

Courtesy of bamboo’s delicate grain and naturalistic character, it has the ability to bring your home’s interior and exterior together, creating a harmonious feng shui flow between the two. Bamboo furniture is the perfect choice if you want to create a beachy, boho, naturalistic, or Scandinavian style. It can also create a natural contrast against modern interior styles.

If you’re looking for bamboo furniture for your home, take a look at our bamboo collection or browse our entire range of outdoor furniture.