Teak Sun Loungers & Steamer Chairs: The Complete Buyer’s Guide from Sloane and Sons
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When it comes to making the most of your garden in the warmer months, few investments reward you as handsomely as a well-chosen outdoor lounger. Whether you want to stretch out fully in the sun or settle into a reclined seat with a book and a cold drink, the right piece of furniture makes all the difference. This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing between a wooden sun lounger and a teak steamer chair, from the key differences in design and function to practical advice on what to look for before you buy.
What Is a Teak Sun Lounger?
A teak sun lounger is a reclining garden chair designed for lying down or sitting at a low angle, typically used for sunbathing or extended outdoor relaxation. At Sloane and Sons, our sun loungers are crafted from Grade A teak, a hardwood prized for its natural oil content, which makes it highly resistant to rot, pests, and the damp conditions that are common in the UK. The result is a lounger that can remain outdoors year-round without deteriorating.
Key features to look for in a teak sun lounger include an adjustable backrest that allows you to set the angle to your preference, built-in wheels for easy repositioning around the garden, and a slatted design that allows airflow and drainage. Our Helford Teak Reclining Sun Lounger is a strong example, offering all of these features alongside a classic aesthetic.
What Is a Teak Steamer Chair?
A steamer chair is a different style of outdoor recliner, taking its name from the deck chairs found on ocean liners in the early 20th century. Rather than a flat, bed-like surface, a steamer chair features a deeper, more enveloping seat with a pronounced incline and a footrest that extends to support the legs. The design encourages a more upright reclining position and is ideal for reading or relaxing in a position that keeps you more engaged with your surroundings.
Our Burnham Teak Steamer Chair with Wheels is our flagship model in this category, built from Grade A teak and fitted with wheels for convenient movement. For those who want a complete set-up, we also offer the Burnham Teak Steamer Chair Set with Side Table and Cushions, which includes everything you need for a premium outdoor seating area.
Sun Lounger vs Steamer Chair: Which Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on how you plan to use it. If sunbathing is the priority and you want the option to lie flat, a reclining sun lounger is the better fit. If you prefer a more structured seated position that still allows you to recline comfortably, a steamer chair is the more practical option.
Space is another consideration. Sun loungers tend to take up more floor space when fully extended, so if your patio or decking is compact, a steamer chair may suit you better. Both styles are available with wheels, which makes repositioning straightforward regardless of which you choose.
For couples who want matching furniture, our Helford Teak Double Reclining Sun Lounger offers a side-by-side solution in one piece, giving you the convenience of a shared outdoor lounger for two.
What to Look for When Buying a Hardwood Garden Lounger
Teak Grade
Not all teak is equal. Grade A teak, which is what Sloane and Sons uses across our wooden sun lounger range, is harvested from the heartwood of mature trees and contains the highest concentration of natural oils. This is what gives it superior weather resistance and longevity.
Adjustability
Look for a lounger with multiple backrest positions rather than a fixed angle. The ability to adjust the recline means the same piece of furniture can serve as a reading chair in the morning and a sunbathing lounger in the afternoon.
Wheels and Mobility
Built-in rubber wheels are a practical feature that are often overlooked until you realise how frequently you want to move your lounger to follow the sun or sheltered spots. Both our steamer chairs and sun loungers include wheels as standard.
Cushions
Teak provides excellent structural support, but adding a cushion significantly improves comfort for extended use. Our garden bench cushions are made with compressed fibre rather than cheap foam, which means they dry faster after rain and maintain their shape over time.
Caring for Your Teak Lounger
Grade A teak is one of the lowest-maintenance hardwoods available for outdoor use. Left untreated, it gradually develops a silver-grey patina that many customers consider an attractive natural look. If you prefer to maintain the original golden-brown colour, applying teak oil once or twice a year is all that is needed. To protect the furniture when not in use, our range of garden bench covers provides weather-resistant protection and can significantly extend the lifespan of your cushions.
Ready to Choose Your Outdoor Lounger?
Whether you are drawn to the classic lines of a steamer chair or the versatility of a full-length reclining sun lounger, Sloane and Sons offers both in Grade A teak with free next-day delivery on most orders. Browse the full wooden sun lounger collection and find the right option for your garden today.
