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Consider this your guide to creating an outdoor space that’s just as cozy and inviting as your living room.

I'm a seasoned Shopping Editor with more than 10 years of experience covering travel (my favorite), home decor, fashion, and pet products.

Whether you're working with a tiny apartment balcony, a cozy patio, or a sprawling backyard, the right outdoor upgrades can make every square foot feel like your own personal escape. From mood-setting string lights and comfy hanging chairs to (affordable) inflatable pools and zero-gravity loungers, these picks will help transform your outdoor area.

The corners of the sails have D rings so you can attach them to whatever you'd like with your choice of hardware or rope.

Promising review: "Purchased this to increase privacy and provide some shade. The color is vibrant and hasn't faded, and the loops are well-stitched. The sail has also fared well in winds, thunderstorms, monsoon rain, and the brutal heat of Vegas. The shade is wonderful, and one can definitely feel the temperature difference from full sun to being under this sail. The look and feel complement our pool area, and we will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC Media

Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in dozens of sizes and 16 colors/patterns).

The all-in-one package includes a steel spreader bar, S-hook, and adjustable strap. 

Promising review: "Great hammock swing! Very well made, comfortable, and great price! I love it! I would definitely recommend it! I would buy again. The cover is wonderful too. Great quality and fits well and is very easy to put on." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in nine colors/styles; some without cushions).

Promising review: "I have ordered four boxes of these light sets now. I love love love these lights. They are gorgeous. I plugged them in while in the package to make sure they all worked. Then I unscrewed all the bulbs to make it easy to hang. I hung them up all around my balcony using a staple gun. When I finished, I screwed the light bulbs all in :) I would highly recommend these lights. They are PINTEREST perfect!" —Cora

Get it from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in four sizes and four styles). 

Promising review: "I have had this pool for about two weeks now and I LOVE IT!!! It was simple to set up. I got a little electric pump, and it took about 10 minutes to inflate, then about half an hour to fill with water. Pay attention to making sure you set it up on level ground, or it will be lopsided. It is probably good for two adults, maybe one adult and a couple of kids. The built-in seat and headrest are really quite comfy and relaxing. I will definitely buy this same pool again if it springs a leak and can't be fixed. If I could give it 10 stars, I would. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!!" —kathryn j.

Promising review: "Really nice accessory for the pool! Perfect for what we were looking for! Good quality and easy to set up. Snug fit!" —Chantal Harrison

Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in two sizes).

And if you need a projector, this one is affordable and loved by reviewers!

Promising review: "Well worth the money! The screen is crystal clear and is so easy to put up! The mirror screen is an added bonus! We use it at the campground for movie and football nights, and everyone loves it. Only downside is you can't see it during daytime hours." —Amazon customer

Get it from Amazon for $71.99+ (available in four sizes).

Promising review: "Got tired of my neighbors asking me what was going on with the barren strip of mud the length of my yard after it got dug up when I had my plumbing replaced. Begrudgingly, I caved, put down seed, and with daily watering… BOOM... Rapid grass. Now they can all complain about someone else’s yard." —Kristy

Get it from Amazon for $20.43+ (available in three sizes and multi-packs). 

Promising review: "I’ll be purchasing more of these lights! They are unique and very pretty. Bright white color! Reminds me of fireflies floating around!"—Dooleydoes

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $11.98 (also available in packs of 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12).

Promising review: "I have a pretty small patio off of my bedroom, and this set fits perfectly. It’s already put together; you just open the box and pop open the chairs and table. Sturdy and good quality. Love the color!" —Lea

Get the set from Amazon for $94.99+ (available in six colors).

This comes with the repeller, one 12-hour fuel cartridge, and three 4-hour repellent mats. You can get refills here.

Promising review: "This has been a lifesaver when wanting to be outside and avoiding mosquitoes. As summer is around the corner, my kids and I enjoy being outside, and having the Thermacell Mosquito Repeller has helped immensely. It really helps create a zone of being protected by the mosquitoes." —fm

Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in five colors). 

Promising review: "This is the perfect little balcony table, just the right size, not too big, not too small. It's very sturdy and provides a great alternative to a patio table and chairs. Easy installation." —Alicia

Get it from Amazon for $40+ (available in three finishes). 

Promising review: "I must say, I was a bit skeptical when I first purchased this, but after setting it up, I was absolutely amazed. I hooked it up just outside the back door at our main house, and I have incredible service in the garage apartment. Can run all computers, TV. It really is a wonderful device and definitely worth the money!" —Texas 

What's included: One pillow, two chains, and two S-shaped hooks. Stand is sold separately.

Promising review: "I’ve been looking for a big enough hammock for myself and my husband. This one is perfect! It is light and dries fast. No assembly required! We just used some eye bolts in the trees to hang this. Took about 5 minutes. I am so happy with this order! If you’re thinking about buying it… just buy it!! :)" —joslyn card

Get it from Amazon for $64.89+ (available in nine colors/prints).

Psst — a lot of reviewers swear by this for easy, hands-free shade solutions for strollers and wheelchairs, too!

Promising review: "I love this! I brought it along for the Fourth of July Parade on a very hot day and attached it to my chair. Not only did it cool me off by about 30 degrees (I think it was close to 100 in the sun), but it ALSO could be all adjusted so the shade fell over me without all of the people walking back and forth on the sidewalk behind my chair constantly bumping into it (which would have happened with a big round umbrella). The clamp is very well made and clamped very securely to my chair with a minimum of effort." —Kindle Customer

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes and six colors).

Promising review: "When I bought this, it was totally on a whim. I was convinced that because it was so inexpensive, it would be a cheap piece of junk! Was I wrong! It does a great job of lighting up the table with the three different settings. AND, if you turn it upside-down, you can further vary the brightness. (Sometimes you just want a hint of a glow, rather than a spotlight in your face.) I'm very happy with this, especially since I left it out all summer long with no issues. It was hidden under a closed umbrella, but I'm sure it got a little damp with rainwater, and it survived! For just $10, it is such an easy solution for my patio that has no electricity, and therefore, needs something battery powered." —LouiseN

It isn't inflatable like other little pools, so you don't have to worry about your dog puncturing it. Plus, it's foldable, so it's easier to store. And while we're on the subject, check out hot weather pet tips from the ASPCA.

Promising review: "The perfect size for our golden retriever (80 lbs). Easy to open, unfold, fill up, and put away! Very happy I selected this model and size when searching for a pool for him." —Katy Ryan

Promising review: "I can see why these are so popular — they’re great quality, really comfortable, and easy to use. I wanted something for the people in my family with knee and back issues because Adirondack chairs and old-school lounge chairs sit really low, making getting up out of them a big problem. We got these for the back patio, but we love them so much that we’re getting a second set for the front porch. Great for ALL ages — tested and verified." —Jason Pauer

Get a set of two from Amazon for $94.99 (available in 46 colors).

Promising review: "I absolutely love this rug! It was exactly what I was looking for for my patio. The design is beautiful, the material feels durable, and it was very easy to set up. It instantly made my outdoor space look more inviting. Highly recommend!" —L.Garzia

Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in 7 sizes and in 16 colors/designs).

Plus, when you flip back over, there's a pillow that covers the hole to keep your head comfortable. 

Promising review: "This is typically more than I would have spent on a lounge chair, but after seeing it on TikTok, I had to buy one!! The arm and face hole make tanning the backside so easy and comfortable!" —Keely Shay

Get it from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in 10 colors/patterns). 

Promising review: "We have used these so much more than we thought we would. They hold red Solo cups and glasses well. We use them for parties, bonfires, and when we are gardening. Love the wine holder versions too. They store in the garage easily." —Cindy

Get them from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sets of 7 and 10).

Promising review: "I've just installed these wooden garden pathways along the side of my house. Everyone just loves them. They give the entrance to the backyard a tropical resort feel. I highly recommend them. Sturdy and durable as well." —Tom Sokolowski

Get it from Amazon for $44.49+ (available in six sizes/configurations).

Garden Guru is a small business that sells lawn and garden tools.

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping Home and Garden Editor Sally Elshorafa says:

"After moving to the East Coast, I quickly learned that the stone pathways around my home are basically a spa retreat for moss and weeds. The cracks collect moisture, trap organic debris, and offer *just* enough shelter to help unwanted greenery flourish, especially with all the shade and rain we get. I didn't want my outdoor space to turn into a jungle, so I grabbed this tool and got to work. It's weirdly satisfying — kind of like flossing, but for your stone paths. The bent tip slides right into the cracks and pulls weeds out from the root, which helps keep them from coming back anytime soon. I've used it on my pathways, driveway, and anywhere else something tries to sprout where it shouldn't. The handle is comfortable, and it doesn't take much effort to use. It's quickly becoming one of my favorites. If you've got hardscaping, you need this in your toolkit." 

Promising review: "I love this thing! I was having a difficult time hand weeding, and couldn't get the roots up most of the time, so the weeds have come back quickly. With this, I can dig down deep and pull up from the root! It is more difficult to use on my driveway, where the asphalt has cracked in different directions, but it's still helpful when pulling them up. I cannot recommend this enough!" —Heather Adney

Promising review: "Love these!!! They're so cute and so practical! You can even put a cozy around the beer, and it still fits in the holder. We haven't tried any tall cups yet, but a solo cup and a beer can seem to work great! If you have a lot of waves in the pool, they could tip over...but you really would have to be working some waves because they are very sturdy!" —Jennifer R.

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in seven designs).

Promising review: "Speaker is a lifesaver at the water park, while grilling, or anywhere. A summer must-have. Sounds really good for such a small speaker." —Jake

Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in four colors and three styles).

The nifty device releases an odorless vapor that kills insects and prevents future infestations for up to four months. It also comes with an adhesive strip so installation is easy peasy. 

Promising review: "I ordered this product hoping it would work but not getting my hopes up. Installation was easy peasy lemon squeezy. It scared off every fly (even the horseflies!) from my trash bin! It was miraculous! Like a good dog owner I pick up my dogs doodoo and throw it in there and we haven’t had a single fly! I can’t believe this isn’t magic!" —Yessica Prato

Get it from Amazon for $12.78+ (available in packs of one or two).

Promising review: "Great design, easy to drain, holds a decent amount of drinks and ice. Keeps everything cold for 2 days without adding extra ice. It's great for saving space on a deck while also providing more area to hang out or sit down at if using stools as I do on my deck." —Justin Elmore

Promising review: "These little things are a must for the pool. They soak up the oily film created by sunscreen. Easy to use and clean. Throw them in and let them float around. Every so often, wring them out outside the pool, and they are good to go again." —Blade

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $13.99.

Created by Nature is a small business based in Oregon that sells customized wildflower seed packets inspired by each of the National Parks and designed to give back to nature’s bounty. This pack offers enough seeds to cover 100 square feet. 

Promising review: "Planted a handful of the seeds in our front lawn area. A few months later, we had a spectacular color array. Great flowers!" —Shane

Promising review: "I put these on our patio and they are breathtakingly beautiful! I really like the colored ones the most. Get so many fabulous compliments! Don’t pass them up. 🥰" —J Thomas

Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three colors and packs of 2, 4, 6, or 8).

Promising review: "Living in Hawaii, you have to select wise items that are weather-, salt-, and red dirt-proof, etc... In total, I ordered 11 boxes to complete my yoga deck. I have a few left over to make steps on the back. Very pleased and happy. May order more for an outdoor shower project!" —Adelia

Get 10 tiles (covers 10 square feet) from Amazon for $77.48 (also available in smaller packs).

PSA: These packets cannot be used in propane or artificial gas log pits. Also, don't cook over them! Save them for after. 

Promising review: "These fire color-changing packets are the backyard secret weapon you never knew you needed! These super colorful wonders turn an ordinary fire into a mesmerizing spectacle that lasts about 45 minutes. Throw in two or three at a time, and you've got a backyard rave that even Mother Nature would RSVP to. A simple yet enchanting way to add a pop of color to your outdoor gatherings!" —Matt Peterson

Get it from Amazon for $11.87+ (available in packs of 10, 12, 25, or 50).

Promising review: "I love spending time outside, and we entertain on our patio, too. But when it's over 100 degrees outside, nobody feels like visiting. Until now!! I bought one and liked it so much I ordered another to cover both patios. They lower the temps to a more moderate level in just moments and don't use 100 gallons of water doing it! They're easy to put up and take down, and come with convenient hanging hooks! I read the reviews people wrote about the heads getting stopped up, and they WILL, but as a plumber, I'll tell you a trick to keeping them working like new: vinegar. Just remove the heads and soak them in a little straight vinegar, then use a small bristle brush like a toothbrush or nail brush, rinse them off, and replace them in the mister tubing, and they should be like brand new." —Sonya Combs

Get it from Amazon for $16.96+ (available in several pack sizes).

SWOOC is a family-owned and operated small business that's been operating out of New Jersey since 1961. 

Promising review: "I bought this for the kids to play during cookouts. We have corn hole and other games as well, and I find myself playing this as much, if not more, than corn hole. Great quality, and it comes with a carrying bag to put away for easy storage and clean up." —Alan Rich 

Get it from Amazon for $119.99+ (available in two sizes).

Giantville is a small business that designs oversized versions of classic children's games.

Promising review: "Perfect game for the family! Everyone really enjoys it. Perfect size and quality." —Julka

Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in three sizes and five set styles).

Promising review: "Omg this is cute and super easy to assemble. I got the red and kinda wish I had gotten the blue... oh, but all the colors are so cute!! Debating buying a second one so each porch chair has its own table. This really is so incredibly versatile. I could see it on a porch, as a minimalist side table, in a kid's room, a place to keep plants... I wouldn't put anything tremendously heavy on it, but as far as tables at this price go, this is the best!" —Meghan McD

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in 11 colors).

Promising review: "Easy installation and works well. Elevated our family's trampoline enjoyment to another level. Now we can enjoy the trampoline on a hot summer day! A must-have addition to any trampoline." —MagnumMan

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* Anyone With Basic Skills And A Weekend Afternoon To Spare Will Love These 32 DIY Backyard Upgrades

* If Your Garden Is Your Happy Place, Buying These 27 Products Will Feel Like A Little Treat For You (And Your Plants)

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.