When investing in outdoor furniture, particularly dining chairs, the instinctive next step for many people is to buy covers. It makes sense at first glance: why wouldn’t you protect your purchase from the elements? However, the truth is that many high-quality outdoor dining chairs are specifically designed to thrive without the need for covers. In fact, in many cases, covers can do more harm than good.

If you’re browsing through the Be A Little outdoor dining chairs range, you’ll notice that each piece is crafted with durability, weather resistance and easy care in mind. Let’s unpack why covers might not be necessary for your outdoor dining chairs and how leaving them uncovered can help maintain their condition and extend their life.

Built for the Outdoors

Outdoor dining chairs from Be a Little are crafted using materials specifically chosen for outdoor conditions. Teak, aluminium, rope and high-performance outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella and olefin are not just stylish, they’re incredibly functional.

The Oscar dining chair, the Timo dining chair, and the Manhattan dining chair are all made from solid teak. Using a cover on a teak chair can disrupt this natural weathering process, trapping moisture and potentially leading to mildew or black spots on the timber.

On the other hand, the Vento Alu Dining chair, the Manhattan Alu Dining chair, and the Alpha Dining Chair feature powder-coated aluminium frames. These are corrosion-resistant, lightweight and durable. Add water- and UV-resistant cushions, and these pieces are set for all-weather comfort.

Breathability is Key

One of the most common issues with furniture covers is the lack of breathability. While they are intended to block out rain or dirt, most covers end up trapping moisture underneath, particularly during humid weather or after rainfall. This trapped moisture leads to a lack of airflow, which creates the perfect environment for mould and mildew to grow.

The Alpha Dining Chair and Alpha Side Chair use quick-drying cushions made from olefin or Sunbrella, both designed to be breathable and fast-drying. By covering these chairs, you limit their ability to dry naturally. Ironically, the effort to protect your furniture can result in the very damage you were trying to avoid.

Even the woven rope detailing on chairs like the vino dining chair and vento dining chair is made from all-weather rope fibres that are designed to withstand UV exposure and moisture. These details should not be smothered with covers that may trap dampness and cause discolouration or mould buildup.

Outdoor Fabrics That Do the Work for You

All the chairs in the Be A Little collection are designed with fabrics that require minimal maintenance. Engineered for resilience, Olefin and Sunbrella stand up to sun, rain, and wear. They are fade-resistant, water-resistant and stain-repellent, meaning you can simply brush off debris and wipe them down with mild soap and water.

Sunbrella, for example, is widely known for its resilience in harsh sun and wet weather. As a solution-dyed acrylic, the colour is embedded in every fibre - not just the surface - making it highly fade-resistant and long-lasting. The Manhattan alu dining chair and the alpha dining chair both feature this fabric option.

If you’re using covers, you may also be encouraged to take them off and put them on frequently. This constant friction can wear down the edges of your chair frames or snag the fabric, which can create small tears over time. Covers also often collect dust and need to be cleaned themselves, adding another step to your routine.

Embrace the Natural Look

Covers not only impact performance, but they can also detract from the look and feel of your outdoor space. The beauty of furniture like the Oscar dining chair or the sculptural form of the Manhattan dining chair lies in their aesthetic as much as their function. When these pieces are left uncovered, they become a visual part of your landscape, enhancing your patio, garden or balcony with natural textures and warm tones.

You’ve chosen these chairs for a reason, so let them shine. Covering your furniture constantly also gives the impression that it’s not in use, which may discourage you from actually spending time outdoors.

When to Use Covers

Of course, there are specific situations where using covers makes sense. If you're leaving your home for an extended period, such as travelling over winter or shutting up a holiday property, a breathable, high-quality cover can help protect from dust or bird droppings.

However, for everyday use in most Australian climates, especially when you’re regularly using the space, you’ll benefit more from letting the furniture breathe and dry naturally. Simply keeping the furniture clean with occasional maintenance will serve you better than relying on covers that may accelerate wear.

Final Thoughts

The truth is, you don’t need to cover outdoor dining chairs if they are designed for the job. The Be A Little (BALI) range of outdoor seating is made to withstand Australian weather, combining durable materials like teak, powder-coated aluminium, rope, olefin and Sunbrella fabrics. They’re built to be used, not hidden away.

Covers can trap moisture, restrict airflow and damage finishes and fabrics over time. With minimal maintenance and the right materials, your outdoor dining chairs will last beautifully without them. Let them breathe, let them age gracefully, and most importantly, let them be enjoyed.

If you’re still unsure about how to care for your outdoor chairs or which material is right for your space, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to help you choose long-lasting, easy-care pieces that complement your lifestyle and look just as good next season as they do today.