Your best backyard awaits.
A well-kept backyard is one of the most relaxing places on earth — and one of the easiest ways to impress guests. If yours could use some sprucing up, you’ve come to the right place. There are tons of cheap, clever things you can use to give your backyard a simple-yet-glorious makeover. All the ones I’ve gathered come with near-perfect reviews, too, so you can rest easy they’re worth the buy. Your best backyard awaits.
01A cozy hammock chair that can hold up to 330 pounds
If you don’t have space on your patio for a hammock, consider opting for this hammock chair instead. It’s made from a soft, breathable cotton blend, with strong stitching that allows it to hold up to 330 pounds. Plus, the wooden pole at the top helps keep it from tipping over if you happen to lean too far forwards.
02These meteor shower lights with *thousands* of positive reviews
Not only are these meteor shower lights a gorgeous addition to any patio, but their waterproof design means there’s no need to bring them inside if it starts to rain. You have the choice of three lengths as well as three colors: blue, white, or warm white. Thousands of reviewers awarded them either four or five stars, with one writing that they “look spectacular.”
03This indoor/outdoor projector screen that sets up in minutes
Unlike some projector screens, this one is made from sturdy polyester that’s resistant to creases, so there’s no need to worry about how it’ll look if you fold it up for storage. Multiple loops around the border make it easy to hang using the included hooks and double-sided tape, though you can also go more permanent with nails or screws.
04An easy-to-install bird bath that clamps to your deck railing
If you don’t have space for a freestanding bird bath, it’s not a problem — just install this one on your balcony or deck railing. A sturdy clamp on the bottom keeps it held in place, and no tools are needed in order to set it up. Plus, the bath detaches from the clamp for easy cleaning in the event it gets dirty.
05The portable hammock that sets up in 1 minute
Whether you’re going camping or chilling in your backyard, this hammock is a must-have. It folds down into a small drawstring bag so that it’s easy to take with you. To set up, simply wrap the included straps around two trees then connect the hammock with the (included) carabiners.
06An outdoor smart plug that can handle the weather
Since this outdoor smart plug is weather-resistant, there’s no need to worry about it short circuiting in rainy weather. Once paired with Alexa or Google Home, you’ll be able to control it using simple voice commands — without having to get up from your lounger. Though if you don’t have those, you can also use the downloadable smartphone app to control it.
07The ring toss game that’s fun for the whole family
Whether you’re five or 55, you can have fun playing this ring toss game. The rules are simple: Take a few steps back, then try to swing the ring so that it lands on the hook. It comes in a variety of sizes to fit walls of nearly any size — and the surfboard design is a fun touch.
08The magnetic screen door that seals itself shut
Accidentally leaving your screen door open is an easy way to wind up with bugs in your home — but that’s where this magnetic version comes in handy. A series of magnets running down the center allow it to seal itself shut once you’ve passed through. The mesh is so durable that you can safely pass through it without using your hands.
09A hose splitter that won’t leak all over your yard
Not only does this hose splitter feature a heavy-duty cover that protects it from bad weather when left outside, but a rubber ring at each hookup also helps prevent it from leaking. Installation is as easy as screwing it into place on your spigot — no tools required.
10An adorable garden statue that lights up at night
Not only is this little turtle a sweet addition to any garden, but the faux succulents on its back also light up at night. A built-in solar panel keeps them lit for up to 10 hours. Plus, the waterproof design helps keep it from short-circuiting in poor weather. “He lights up wonderfully and lasts for hours,” wrote one reviewer. “He is well made and sturdy and worth every penny I paid.”
11A tiered plant stand made from real eucalyptus wood
Leaving potted plants sitting directly on your patio looks all right — though putting them on this stand is an easy way to make them look even better. It’s made from real eucalyptus wood, with enough space for a minimum of seven pots. And unlike some stands, this one is suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use.
12This colorful hummingbird feeder that brings the birds to the yard
Invite flitting hummingbirds to your backyard with this colorful feeder. The base features a silicone ring to ensure it doesn’t leak, while multiple ports let more than one hummingbird feed at the same time. And if your backyard tends to get hot, the plastic frame is less likely to heat up in the sun than comparable metal feeders.
13An outdoor sun shade that can help cool down your patio
If your patio gets uncomfortably hot during the summer, consider hanging up this shade. It’s made from high-density polyethylene fabric that blocks the sun, yet still allows air to flow through — so you’ll be able to feel that cool summer breeze whenever it wafts by. “We replaced our umbrella with this sun shade and it really stands up to the elements of recents storms [...],” wrote one reviewer. “The amount of shade far exceeds any umbrella and it is still airy without holding in the heat.”
14The heirloom vegetable seeds that are non-GMO
Open-pollinated, chemically untreated, and non-GMO — these vegetable seeds hit all the right notes. You don’t need a green thumb in order to get them to sprout, as their high germination rates make it way more likely that they’ll start to grow. Plus, each order includes a variety of veggies, ranging from corn to bell peppers.
15These magical flame packets that add colors to your campfire
These magical flame packets are a fun addition to any camping trip — or even just a night relaxing by your backyard fire pit. Simply toss a few into the fire, and the flames will light up in gorgeous shades of blue, green, purple, and more. “The colors were beautiful and received a lot of oooooos and ahhhhhhs,” wrote one reviewer. “Surprisingly it lasted for quite a while.”
16The fire starter squares that even work when wet
Get that bonfire going every time with these fire starter bricks. Made of wax and sawdust, they’re completely odorless, and work even if they’ve gotten wet. Ideal for outdoor fires, grills, and even stoves, just break off a square and light it up. Their compact size takes up hardly any space, too.
17A metal grill scraper that’s made without any bristles
Wire brushes can shed bristles into your grill, which can lead to them making their way into your food. Instead, use this scraper to clean those dirty grates. Multiple notches on the top make it suitable for use with nearly any grate, and the other end acts as a bottle opener. The solid metal construction is designed to last.
18These faux grass panels that add easy greenery to your space
You’ve got options when it comes to how you use these faux grass panels. Hang them on balcony railings to add privacy, or cover a blank wall with them to give your patio a warm, outdoorsy vibe. Their ultra-realistic appearance is sure to fool guests — even if they’re standing nearby.
19These vibrant throw pillow covers that come in 5 colors
If your patio feels a little stale, consider livening things up with these machine-washable throw pillow covers. The vibrant colors add life to stale spaces — and the modern geometric pattern is right on trend. Choose from seven sizes as well as five shades: multicolor, green, orange, pink, or teal.
20A portable campfire that burns for up to 5 hours
If your backyard doesn’t have space for a full-sized fire pit, consider burning this portable version instead. Despite being only 8 inches in size, it can burn for up to five hours — and each order includes a lid so that you can easily snuff it out.
21This nonstick basket that makes it easy to grill small ingredients
From shrimp to sliced zucchini, this basket makes it easier than ever to grill small ingredients without losing them between the grates. It’s made from stainless steel perforated with slots to let delicious grill flavor seep through, and that won’t warp or twist under pressure. It’s also dishwasher safe.
22This ergonomic weeder tool made from die-cast aluminum
Stubborn weeds are a thing of the past once you’ve dug up their roots using this tool. It’s made from strong, die-cast aluminum, with an ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in either hand. Plus, a large loop at the end makes it easy to hang up in storage.
23These water-resistant curtains that add shade to your patio
Add these outdoor curtains to your patio or pergola, and they’ll block sunlight to help keep you cool when temperatures rise high. They’re made from ultra-thick, waterproof polyester, so there’s no need to unhook them if it starts to rain or snow. And with more than 10 colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your style.
24The solar-powered string lights that won’t shatter
There’s no need to worry about these string lights breaking should they fall to the ground, as the LED bulbs are completely shatterproof. They also have a lifetime of up to 20,000 hours — and a connected solar panel eliminates the need to plug them into an outlet. “I’ve had them up for about 2 years now and they’ve held up amazingly!” raved one reviewer. “Made it through the storms in 2023 and are currently lit up as I type this.”
25These poles that help you hang string lights like a pro
If you’ve got a patio without good places to string up lights, it becomes a nonissue with these poles. Just attach them where you like with the included brackets and screws — the rubber-tipped bases won’t leave scratches on your deck. Though they’re also available with forked bases, if you’d prefer to press them down into the ground.
26These LED torches that flicker just like real flames
Festively upgrade your lawn illumination with these LED tiki torches. A solar panel built into the top of each one keeps them lit for 12 hours at night, and the LED bulbs even flicker just like real flames. There’s no need to worry about refueling these, and the weatherproof design keeps them in good working order come rain or shine.
27These clips that make it easy to add string lights to your deck railing
Wrapping your string lights around your deck railing can lead to some lights sitting on the outside of your rail. Instead, hang them up using these clips. They provide a secure hold without damaging the woodwork — and you can use them with railings between a quarter and 1.5 inches thick. “They are a tight fit, but I'm actually glad because they keep the lights where they should be [...],” wrote one reviewer. “A few go a long way, so the pack of 50 will last for a very long time.”
28This fun twist on the classic game of horseshoe
While similar to the classic game of horseshoe, this updated version adds a fun twist by having players try to knock a water bottle off the top of their opponent’s stand using a flying disc. Setting the stands up takes five minutes or less — and each order comes with everything you’ll need to start playing other than water bottles.
29The reusable water balloons that keep the party going
Consider these water balloons an eco-friendly upgrade from the disposable ones you were planning on using. Not only are they endlessly reusable, but there’s also no need to fill them up by hand — just drop them into the pool and they’ll inflate with water on their own. Plus, each one is also made without any latex.
30A dimmable lantern that can run for more than 20 hours
If your backyard doesn’t have adequate lighting, consider using this LED lantern to guide your way through the dark. It delivers more than 20 hours’ worth of light using just three D batteries (which are not included). You can also dim its brightness by up to three levels — and one reviewer even raved about how it can “light up an entire room.”
31This volleyball-style game that’s oh-so-easy to learn
Consider grabbing Slammo for outdoor playtime. Two teams of two people face off by bouncing the ball back and forth to each other on the net, with a point being scored whenever someone misses a shot on the other team. One reviewer wrote, “We assembled it quickly on the beach and had a blast playing. It's so much fun for teenagers and adults.”
32A wind spinner that adds a pop of color to the yard
Not only is this wind spinner a colorful addition to any backyard, it’s also made from laser-cut stainless steel that’s unlikely to rust over time. A swiveling hook at the top makes it easy to hang from trees, roofs, or nearly anywhere else you like. And if you aren’t into the tree of life design you see above, you can grab it in nine other styles.
33These insulated wine tumblers that won’t shatter if dropped
Don’t stress about breaking these wine tumblers, as each one is made from tough stainless steel that won’t shatter when dropped. Their insulated walls help keep white wine chilled whereas red wines stay at room temperature. Plus, the sliding lid helps prevent spills in the event they get knocked over.
34A washable rug that adds style to your doorway
The back door is easy to forget about when it comes to decor — pop down this elegant-looking rug to add a touch of style. The plaid pattern is a timeless design that’s sure to stay stylish for years to come. And unlike some rugs, this one can be tossed into the wash for an easy clean.
35These solar-powered lanterns you can hang from the trees
There’s no need for any complicated wiring when hanging up these lanterns. Each one is powered by a built-in solar panel that keeps them lit for hours at night — and the weatherproof design helps keep them in good working condition come rain or shine.
36A waterproof outdoor blanket that packs up easy
Don’t head out for that picnic until you’ve packed this blanket. Its waterproof underside keeps you high and dry off the damp ground, while the built-in handle makes it easy to carry around. And if it ever gets dirty, simply toss it in to the wash for a quick clean.
37The roasting sticks made from sleek stainless steel
These roasting sticks are a must-have for making s’mores around your outdoor fire pit. Each one is made from rust-resistant stainless steel, with wooden handles that won’t absorb heat from the fire. At 32 inches long, you won’t have to get too close to the fire in order to get your marshmallow deliciously toasty.
38This waterproof grill cover that won’t blow away in the wind
Unlike some grill covers that can fly away on gusty days, this one features built-in air vent flaps that allow wind to flow through, ensuring that it stays firmly in place. The waterproof Oxford fabric also features an extra layer of UV protection to help keep it from fading or cracking over time. And with three sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that fits your grill.
39This LED lamp that clamps around umbrella poles
You don’t have to eat inside just because the sun has gone down. Enter: this LED lamp that attaches to your umbrella pole. A clamp in the center makes installation a total breeze, without any tools needed to get the job done. And since it runs using just four AA batteries (which are not included), there’s no need for any complicated wiring in order to get it up and running.
40A gardening knife made from rust-resistant stainless steel
Whereas some outdoor tools will begin to corrode over time, this gardening knife is made from stainless steel that’s resistant to rust. The handle is made from tropical rose hardwood — not plastic. This multipurpose knife is an MVP when it comes to weeding, digging, sawing, and slicing.
41An outdoor trash can that looks so snazzy
Sometimes the best purchases are the ones you least expect — like this outdoor trash can. Not only does it help keep your backyard clean, but the sleek appearance also allows it to blend into its surroundings so that it’s hardly noticeable. Plus, the durable resin frame is water- as well as fade-resistant.
42These wildflower seeds that invite hummingbirds & butterflies
If you’d like to encourage wildlife to visit your backyard, consider planting some of these wildflower seeds. Each packet comes with more than 7,000 seeds inside — so you should be able to cover up to 100 square feet of space. The packet features a zipper at the top so that you can keep any unused seeds fresh.
43A mosquito repeller that doesn’t rely on harsh DEET
Looking for a way to get rid of mosquitos that doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals? Search no further than this repeller. It creates a 15-foot zone of protection without utilizing any deet, citronella, smoke, or flames — just a single fuel cartridge that lasts for up to 12 hours. “This product works,” raved one reviewer. “We first used them for an outside event and everyone was surprised there were no issues with mosquitoes!”
44The solar deck lights that are so, *so* easy to install
Installing these deck lights is as easy as pressing them right into place on your railing using the included adhesive — no drilling necessary. Their waterproof design ensures they’ll stay in good working order regardless of how damp the weather gets. Plus, each one is powered using a built-in solar panel, so there’s no need for any complicated wiring.
45A portable picnic table made from sleek bamboo
If you prefer your picnic off the ground, then this portable picnic table is worth a look. Six slots around the edge give you somewhere to rest wine glasses, while a stake at the bottom lets you secure it down into the ground to keep it stable. The bamboo frame makes it look more expensive than it is — and each order even includes four charcuterie serving knives.
46The backyard drink holders made from tough steel
Don’t risk spilling your drink by placing it on the ground — instead, pop it into one of these holders. Their fork-style bases let you press them down into the ground to keep them stable. The cupholder on top is large enough to fit soda cans, beer bottles, as well as everything in between. And since they’re made from tough steel, there’s no need to worry about them breaking.
47These solar-powered chimes that change colors as they sway in the wind
Anyone with a dull, monochromatic backyard can appreciate these wind chimes. They change colors as they sway in the wind, alternating between seven different shades that range from bright red to deep blue. And if you aren’t into the globe shape, you can also grab them as hummingbirds or dragonflies, as well as six other styles.
48A faux ivy wall that adds privacy to balconies & fences
If you’re tired of people peering through your fencing, try installing this faux ivy wall. Not only does it add a delightful pop of green to your outdoor space, but the leaves are also packed tightly together so that it’s hard to peek through them. “Put this up on a chain link fence to cover a storage area by my back patio,” wrote one reviewer. “Looks great, edges blend together nicely, simple zip-ties did the trick.”
49This patio umbrella that comes in more than 15 colors
Teal, orange, dark green — with more than 15 shades to pick from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding this patio umbrella in a color that suits your style. The pole is made from lightweight aluminum, making it easy to tilt at an angle whenever desired. Plus, the canopy is fade-resistant.
50A portable lounger that inflates using wind
Inflating this lounger is as easy as swishing it through the wind, then folding the opening to keep the air from escaping. The opening is so airtight that it can stay inflated for up to six hours — and it even folds down into a drawstring bag so that it’s easy to take with you.