Outdoor Bar Stools: What Survives Australian Weather
The best outdoor bar stools for Australian conditions are made from powder-coated aluminium or steel, synthetic (PE) rattan, polypropylene or durable hardwood. These handle sun, rain and humidity far better than indoor timber, fabric or PU leather, which can fade, crack or go mouldy outside.
Best materials for outdoor bar stools
| Material | Rain | UV / sun | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder-coated aluminium | Excellent, won’t rust | Good | Low |
| Powder-coated steel | Good, watch for chips | Good | Low–medium |
| Synthetic (PE) rattan | Very good | Good | Low |
| Polypropylene / plastic | Excellent | Good if UV-stabilised | Very low |
| Hardwood (e.g. acacia, teak) | Good with oiling | Greys over time | Medium |
Covered vs exposed areas
- Fully exposed: choose aluminium, polypropylene or synthetic rattan.
- Covered alfresco or patio: you can add cushions and hardwood. Bring cushions in when it rains.
- Coastal: salt air is tough on steel. Aluminium and synthetic materials last longest.
Height for outdoor bars
Outdoor bars and high tables are usually 100–110cm, which suits bar-height stools with a seat of about 73–80cm. Outdoor kitchen benches at 90cm need counter-height stools (60–66cm seat). Measure before you buy. See our height guide.
Care tips
- Hose down and wipe with mild soapy water every few weeks.
- Cover or store stools during long wet spells or winter.
- Oil hardwood once or twice a year if you want to keep its colour.
- Touch up chips in powder-coated steel to stop rust spreading.
- Don’t leave indoor stools outside — they’re not built for UV and rain.
Outdoor picks
-
3-Piece Outdoor Bar Set Bistro Table Stools Adjustable Square Cafe By Gardeon
$220.96 AUD -
Sale
3-Piece Outdoor Bar Set Bistro Table Stools Adjustable Wooden Cafe By Gardeon
Original price was: $221.99 AUD.$211.96 AUDCurrent price is: $211.96 AUD. -
Sale
Gardeon 2-Piece Outdoor Bar Stools Dining Chair Bar Stools Rattan Furniture
Original price was: $199.99 AUD.$175.96 AUDCurrent price is: $175.96 AUD.
Pair with a bar table or browse our outdoor furniture.
FAQs
What material is best for outdoor bar stools?
Powder-coated aluminium, synthetic rattan and UV-stabilised polypropylene handle Australian sun and rain best with the least maintenance.
Can outdoor bar stools be left out in the rain?
Most outdoor stools can handle rain, but covering or storing them during long wet periods helps them last longer.
What height should outdoor bar stools be?
Bar-height stools (73–80cm seat) suit 100–110cm outdoor bars. Counter-height stools (60–66cm seat) suit 90cm outdoor kitchen benches.
Can I use indoor bar stools outside?
It is best not to. Indoor timber, fabric and PU leather are not made for UV and rain and can fade, crack or go mouldy.
More answers in our bar stool buying guide & FAQ, or read counter stool vs bar stool height and how many stools fit your island.