Author Caroline Barr – May 16, 2021May 16, 2021

We’ve all been pretty locked up this year (thank you very much, COVID) and are ready to go out and enjoy the summer sun. Make sure your outdoor space is ready for summer with this list of backyard must-haves, and where to find them in Birmingham.

1. Citronella insect repellent candle

First things first: To enjoy your outdoor space this summer, you need to keep all those biting, stinging, and annoying insects away. Great Bear Wax Co.’s All-natural soy candles, made with a blend of lemongrass and cedarwood essential oils, will keep mosquitoes at bay without harsh chemicals.

2. Comfortable outdoor rugs

Perfect for patios, decks, porches, and balconies, a colorful rug will make your summer yard an extension of your home. Choose a rug made of durable materials that will stand up to rain and sun to anchor your outdoor seating area.

3. Rustic fireplace

What could be better than warm nights, a good chat with friends and roasted marshmallows? Make it your usual summer nighttime reality with a rustic iron fireplace. A fireplace will also create a focal point for your patio furniture. Just be sure to follow fire safety rules if your outdoor space is covered, like a balcony or porch.

4. Outdoor floor lamp

Look, we all love string lights for our porches and patios, but we can be more creative than that! A floor lamp designed for the outdoors is a unique way to fit in with the outdoor living trend. Place it at one end of your patio sofa or in the corner of your porch for soft, subtle lighting while you entertain outside.

5. Comfortable swing bed

Push those typical porch swings aside and switch to a swing bed rather. Ideal for those who have porches or balconies with sturdy covers, swing beds are perfect for those lazy summer afternoons with a glass of sweet tea.

6. Giant lawn games

Fun for kids and adults alike, oversized lawn games – like giant Jenga – take evenings of family play in the backyard to the next level. You can order games like Connect 4 or lawn bowling from various online retailers, or rent them for your next meeting.

7. Storage tank for soaking

No extra space or money for an inground pool? Are the dogs still breaking through the inflatable kiddie pool? A stock storage pool is your answer, friends. Set it up on your patio, patio or lawn, fill it with water from the hose, don a swimsuit and you’re ready to stay cool in the sun all summer.

For more fun tips to prepare for summer, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and subscribe to our FREE newsletter.

Related