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I’m the Home and Garden Editor at BuzzFeed, where I write articles that connect readers with the products, ideas, and trends that help make a house feel like home.

It's about layering in those little details that make everything feel more welcoming, whether that's a pair of timeless Adirondack chairs, ambient lighting, or a few games to play outside that keep everyone lingering long after dinner served al fresco. These finds prove it doesn't take much to make your backyard feel like everyone's favorite place to be. 

Promising review: "Beautiful design with fun colors, durable and stable cord, easy to clean. Perfect for smaller birds but it attracts a lot." —Mely

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight colors).

Promising review: "Lovely colorful flower pots. Perfect size to hold a single flower, and they add such a nice pop of color to my yard. Very easy to hang up, no hardware required! I’m getting a lot of compliments on them. I bought several sets and planted bright flowers in them. I have them lining the inside of my yard and on the front of the house. They add a lot of cheer and homeyness for a simple and cheap project." —Maegan

Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $18.99 (available in multicolor, black, or white). 

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).

Promising review: "We installed these over a year ago, and they have been fantastic. They’ve been exposed to the elements through all seasons and continue to work perfectly. The lights create a warm, inviting ambiance in our outdoor space and have held up far better than some more expensive options we’ve purchased in the past. The dimmable feature is a great bonus. If you’re looking for durable, attractive outdoor string lights that will last, I highly recommend these. After more than a year of use, we’re still just as happy with them as the day we hung them." —Dr. Manetta

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in three wire colors, amber or warm white light, and 10 lengths).

Promising review: "Searched all over for a planter small enough to fit on my porch. I’m so happy I came across this one. It’s exactly what I was looking for, and I was able to plant six herbs in it. It’s made out of metal and feels very sturdy. It has a drain hole, which is a plus." —Christine

Get it from Amazon for $41.37+ (available in three styles).

Promising review: "I love the size and the fact that it takes five minutes to set up and five minutes to take down. Very portable and lightweight to carry. Very sturdy. I would highly recommend." —Kathi

Get it from Amazon for $99.94+ (also available in a 120-inch size).

Promising review: "Ok, my backyard is flooded with solar lights, and these are the only ones I haven’t had a problem with. I have had them for over a year and no issues, like my other stupid lights! They have maintained their brightness, and the size is perfect for hanging on posts. And it looks like a flickering flame! Can’t go wrong with these little guys. Very much a value for your money." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in black or bronze).

Promising review: "These chairs are very sturdy and comfortable. They are not too wide, and the back tilt is just right. You can lean back into it but you are not struggling to get out of it. They are easy to clean. They were easy to assemble and they look good." —A L

Get it from Amazon for $90.41+ (available in 12 colors and quantities of one, two, four, and six). There's a matching footstool and side table. 

Promising review: "We use these chairs on our back porch every single day! They are durable, comfortable, and a great size. They are not small and narrow like some rockers you’ll find. My 10-year-old daughter and I can both sit in it together. I will say, the seat is pretty deep, so if you’re somewhat on the shorter side, a pillow/cushion behind your back is helpful! They rock smoothly and are solid!! Anytime anyone comes over, they comment on how much they love our chairs and ask where we got them! Would 100% recommend!!" —Savannah

Get it from Amazon for $229.99+ (available in 11 colors and sets of two, three, and four).

Promising review: "These are beautiful, and I love how easy it is to put in my garden. Solar lights work very well, and I like seeing how the lights sway when there's a gentle wind blowing. Nice garden accents." —Mike Lucero

Get it from Amazon for $11.39+ (available in packs of two, four, six, eight, and 10).

Promising review: "I installed it, and owls that had been roosting in the branches of the same tree, moved into this owl box the very next day." —Dwayne

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in three sizes and two wood finishes).

Promising review: "Adds a lot of visual interest for very little money." —Karen N.

"Absolutely LOVE this outdoor rug. It gives my deck the updated outdoor-living-space vibe I wanted. It's padded enough that I can comfortably walk on it barefoot. It's also great because if my dogs trot across it with muddy paws, all I have to do is get the hose out and spray it off — good as new! I spend many mornings, afternoons, and evenings in this space, and I can say this rug helps make my outdoor living space feel like my zen-zone." —Kela

Get it from Amazon for $20.39+ (available in six sizes and 16 patterns and colors).

Promising review: "I LOVE this fan! We live on the surface of the sun, aka Arizona, so keeping cool is a big deal! Especially for individuals with health issues! (It will also help keep the mosquitoes off you!) Last thing: it isn’t loud either!" —Alicia Hanley

Get it from Amazon for $199.99 (available in three colors).

Promising review: "Really love how simple and easy this puts together. Hold my husband and me together for movie yard time. Love the pillow it came with. Durable. I love falling asleep on this in the rain." —Maribel

Get it from Amazon for $75.99+ (available in 20 colors)

Promising review: "I ordered waterproof speakers so I could sit outside, and I’m so glad I found these. They’re perfect for what I needed because they are similar to tiki torch lights that are already planted. They give off a nice ambiance when sitting out back, and the sound is loud but not too loud to disturb neighbors. Bluetooth connection is easy. So far, so good, and I’m satisfied with my purchase." —applefir

Promising review: "Hands down best bang for your buck — absolutely worth it! Quality is like one of those $250 ones, and this one is under $200. Go for it! Looks so much better than having a fridge outside on your patio for your cold beer/drinks." —Priscila Lapins

"Ice retention was great all night long, making our beverages cold ’til the next day. And size and color were just as listed. Overall, it’s nice." —Rob Huizar

Get it from Amazon for $147.99+ (available in five colors).

Promising review: "This thing is great and perfect to start off the spring/summer. We dumped a giant bag of ice in there and kept our drinks cold all afternoon. The swivel top is convenient and fun. Love that it’s a table and an aesthetically pleasing cooler." —Shana

Get it from Amazon for $119.99 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I installed this sunshade over my pergola, and it made an immediate difference! It blocks the harsh midday sun beautifully while still allowing a nice breeze to flow through. The material is sturdy, breathable, and looks great — adding a clean, finished look to our outdoor space. We’ve been able to enjoy our patio during the hottest parts of the day without feeling like we’re baking in the sun. Highly recommend for anyone who wants cooler temps and better UV protection without sacrificing style!" —Theresa Wauligman

Get it from Amazon for $75.98+ (available in 11 colors and over 50 sizes).

Promising review: "I was looking for some nice small chairs to put on our front patio. We had camping chairs out there before, and they looked awful from the street. We ordered this little set, and it has been perfect. They have great street appeal. They are extremely comfortable. The cushions are firm and supportive. We easily sit out here for an hour or two now each day. Cat and human approved." —Vik 

Promising review: "This is definitely the most beautiful wind chime I've ever seen, and I love the sound too. The packaging was nice, and all the glass pieces were well protected. I will definitely consider buying again as gifts." —Anita J.

Get it from Amazon for $24.95 (available in 11 color combinations).

Promising review: "Absolutely love this! I set it up on my front porch. When I came out after it was dark, when it had absorbed the sun, it was beautiful, and cast the shapes of hummingbirds on the ground. It’s the perfect size, shape, and brightness. I think it would also look really nice mounted on a stand-out in the garden! I recommend setting it out in an area that gets at least six hours of sun for the best brightness and lasting light at nighttime." —Cassidy Low

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in six designs).

Promising review: "These outdoor inserts were perfect for my outdoor pillow covers. They have stayed in great shape through the summer heat and rain!! Great product!" —AMH

"These are excellent! Even though these had been vacuum-sealed, I could tell they had more fill in them. They included instructions on how to fluff up. I do not have dryer balls, so I put my dryer on steam and medium heat, and WOW, they doubled in size and are extremely full! I had to really lean on them to get them into my pillowcase! Highly recommend." —the bee lady

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in 16 sizes and individually). 

Promising review: "These covers are so so pretty!! The quality of material is excellent, and the pattern and color are the perfect 'pop' of color on my deck. Paired with my aqua Adirondack chairs and pink geraniums, they’ve got my deck on point! The zipper is great quality, and they fit a 20x20 pillow perfectly — just the right amount of poof!

I have bought other covers in this brand and have been very happy with the quality. These covers will NOT disappoint. A great buy!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes and nine colors).

Promising review: "I purchased the rose colored chimes. I've been outside daily, working on the yard. Yesterday, I noticed a feeling of calm as a small storm moved in. It was the chimes, without noticing, they played in the background and moved me into a relaxed state." —Pegi

Get it from Amazon for $28.70+ (available in seven colors and three sizes).

Promising review: "Was actually a little bigger than I expected to be for the price. Beautiful and well worth the money. Sounds beautiful." —Ashleigh Yates 

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes). 

Promising review: "I am extremely impressed with these ferns!!! Very life-like. Do not look fake! They are full and lush. Color is realistic! They are a wow!!" —mkg

Get it from Amazon for $24.64+ (available in three sizes).

The planters are sold separately, and I recommend either this pack of white ones or this pack of multicolored ones.

Promising review: "I have a small balcony with two entrances, so not a lot of available floor space. By making a vertical garden, I can have my fresh herbs without taking up valuable real estate. It goes on a wall by the door that wouldn't have been used otherwise. Plus, it looks so pretty! It was very easy to install. With the addition of the hanging planters (sold separately), I love that I can easily take my herbs down to water them or bring them into my kitchen to cook with." —Luna

Get it from Amazon for $15.29+ (available in 13 sizes).

Promising review: "This solar moon outdoor stake is so pretty and super easy to put together! I love the crackle design on the globe — it adds so many cool shadows to my yard. The light is nice and bright, lasts all night (around 8–10 hours), and still works great even after it rains. I’m really happy with it — definitely worth it if you want something cute to show off in your yard." —Tory

Promising review: "The perfect addition to our patio table! Super easy to open, and the LED lights are the perfect touch at night. Easy to tilt and is pretty sturdy in the wind." —Katie Maguire

Get it from Amazon for $67.99+ (available in 51 colors).

Raw Rutes is a small business based in Buffalo, NY, that makes metal yard art.

Promising review: "Absolutely gorgeous garden art!! Rustic style and Fern cutouts add tremendous interest. Try to place in garden locations that have lush plantings such as hostas or yucca plants, or even ferns to really add to the dynamics!!" —Kathleen Bannerman

Get it from Raw Rutes on Etsy for $125+ (available in three sizes)

SWOOC Games is a small biz specializing in game sets, many of which are outdoor-safe.

Promising review: "Our family loves Yahtzee, but Yardzee was so much more fun! It is like a giant life-size game. It was so much fun to play outside as a family. We had ages 7–65 playing and enjoying the game. As a homeschooler, I also love that it sneaks in math and writing." —The Waldock Way

Get them from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in two dice sizes).

Promising review: "I have had this pool for about two weeks now, and I LOVE 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 make sure you set it up on level ground, or it will be lopsided. I live in South Carolina, so it is already hot and humid, and I use it about every afternoon. 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.

Kozyard is a small business in California and New Jersey that sells outdoor furniture for the home.

Promising review: "I must admit that I read so many reviews on a million different sites for the perfect pool chairs. I did not want to spend $600 a chair, and I wanted to get some that would last, as most chair reviewers said they had to replace their wicker/rattan chairs every one to two years. After finally deciding on these for the resort-style look, I bit the bullet and bought six of them. We are very impressed. The real test was using them for days at a time — they did not disappoint! Very comfortable on your back or stomach and easy to adjust at multiple levels. I believe I am going to order two more! Order these....you won't be disappointed." —Renee Byars

Get it from Amazon for $157.06+ (available in 10 colors, with or without a side table, and sets of two).

Copper Hummingbird is a small business run by Nancy Higgins. In 2006, she invented a bee-proof, drip-free hummingbird feeder for use in the hummingbird aviary at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson, Arizona, where she was a zookeeper for 22 years! After receiving so many non-zookeeper requests for her feeders, she decided to open up a public-facing shop.

Promising review: "I absolutely love these hummingbird feeders. The cup is smaller — about 2–3 days' worth of feedings. This is perfect to keep the food from going bad by being outside in the heat, which is necessary to keep hummingbirds safe. I have two of the hanging-style feeders I bought last year. They are still in perfect condition. My most recent purchase was the flower stake feeder, and I am loving it also." —haleygymcoach

Get it from Copper Hummingbird on Etsy for $34.50.

* Outdoor Items That’ll Turn Your Space Into A Haven, No Matter The Size

* If You Need Some Guidance On What, Exactly, You Should Buy For Your Backyard, I Gotchu

* Things That’ll Make Your Yard *THE* Place To Be

* Things That'll Have You Spending So Much Time In Your Backyard, Your House Will Be Jealous

* Gardening Products For Balconies, Patios, And Small Yards

Plus, finds from Article, Home Depot, Walmart and Wayfair.

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 have been edited for length and/or clarity.