A tanning ledge provides a great way to enjoy your pool without submerging yourself. But you need the right tanning ledge furniture for your safety in the water. This includes paying close attention to seat sizing, properties, and accessories. Buying just any piece can break your whole experience.
That’s why in this guide, we’ll dive into the right qualities to look for. From sizing and weight to the type of furniture, learn how to pick the right furniture that fits the pool you have. Be confident in the seating choice you’ll make!
The Right Furniture Size and Weight for a Tanning Ledge
The most important piece of furniture to look out for is an in-pool seating piece. But its right size and weight mainly depend on the tanning ledge’s size. The baja shelf depth, length, and width influence the size, number of furniture pieces, and their weight. Here’s how to determine the right measurements:
Sizing
The right seating furniture’s width and length depend on how spacious the tanning ledge is. So, start by measuring the space. From those dimensions, determine what size fits and how many furniture pieces you want to put.
Here’s the most common in-pool chaise sizing:
Length: 70 to 75 inches
Width: 23 to 28 inches
Bigger Sizes: Some pieces can be up to 32 inches wide
Moreover, the piece needs to be designed for the water depth of the ledge. Going over this specification can result in the furniture floating. So, check the depth of your sun shelf. They’re often 9 to 12 inches deep. Cross-check this when looking at your furniture options—manufacturers mention it for every furniture.
Weight
Unlike regular outdoor furniture, most of these seating furniture pieces are hollow. They rely on being filled with water for stability. Using the measured depth, check with the manufacturer’s specified weight and water depth range.
Most pieces have an empty weight between 30 to 60 lbs. Meanwhile, their in-water chair weight is often between 100 to over 140 lbs. These specifications are typically designed for a water depth of 0 to 9 inches.
Additionally, check the furniture’s weight capacity. In-pool pieces can often support up to 400 lbs. So, if you need a more heavy-duty piece, look for capacities above that weight.
6 Different Types of Tanning Ledge Furniture
In-pool seating furniture is the standard furniture for tanning ledges. But your furniture options are more versatile. Here are the different types you can get:
1. Loungers
These are the most popular types of in-pool furniture. You can often get one as a chaise lounger or contoured lounger. A chaise lounger is an adjustable reclining chair designed for sunbathing. Meanwhile, a contoured one has a more ergonomic, molded design that conforms to the body.
2. Chairs
These are often interchangeably referred to as loungers, but the two have some differences. In-pool chairs are often more upright. This makes them more ideal for reading, socializing, and drinking. One popular chair style you can get is an Adirondack chair. It has wide armrests and an angled back, making it a versatile choice.
3. Bar Stools
These are perfect if you have a built-in swim-up bar in your pool. But they also work if you want to create a relaxed, bar-like atmosphere in it. These stools are available in different heights. They’re sturdy enough to be in the water. Some stools even come with other features, like LED lights. Plus, they’re the cheapest option for your seating furniture.
4. Tables
These are as popular as the seating furniture. In-pool tables are perfect for holding drinks, sunscreens, sunglasses, and even books. They also come in different sizes, but most are on the smaller side as side tables. Some are even designed to work as an in-pool icebox to keep your drinks chilled.
5. Sectionals and Daybeds
These are for larger areas and ideal for group seating. These pieces can either be an in-pool bed or a sofa. Perfect for lounging or socializing, they can offer you more space to relax. Some pieces even come with built-in canopies for instant shade.
6. Umbrellas
Some in-pool tables come with umbrellas, but not all of them. You can get a separate one to put with your other furniture. These umbrellas come in different styles, colors, and sizes. They’re also one of the easiest ways to customize your pool ledge.
Furniture Safety Considerations to Make When Buying
When choosing the best in-pool furniture to get, consider and check the following things as well:
Pool-Safe Materials
The right material shouldn’t corrode, stain, or deteriorate when submerged in pool water. Here are your best options:
Plastic Resin: High-quality material often made with high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which makes it resistant to potential damage from the pool water.
Marine Grade Polymer: This is a heavier-duty plastic. It’s more resistant to strong winds and pool water than plastic resin.
On the flip side, be cautious with these materials:
Metals: Aluminum and steel are prone to rusting from the pool’s chlorine. This can damage the furniture and also cause permanent stains on your pool surface.
Vinyl Straps: These can crack and fade over time due to constant exposure to the pool’s chemicals.
Recycled Plastic with Hardware: A metal hardware often holds together recycled plastic, so it’s still prone to rust.
Slip-Resistant Pool Furniture
Check the non-slip features of the furniture. These can be anti-slip feet or surfaces. This way, the furniture wouldn’t slide on the wet pool ledge. Moreover, make sure that they’re designed in a way that they stay anchored to the pool and do not float away.
Smooth Surface and Edges
Look for smooth and rounded edges in in-pool furniture. This reduces the risk of injury while you’re on the ledge. Check if the surface is compatible with the pool’s finish as well. Some may slip or damage different types of pools, like vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite.
Conclusion
With a great tanning ledge furniture piece, you can soak in the pool water while comfortably lying down. Just remember to check the size, material, and type. Don’t be afraid to add multiple pieces to your pool ledge as well.
For the best options, visit our pool furniture collection. We have a wide selection of pieces, from loungers to side tables—check out which might suit your needs!
FAQs
Q: What ledge depth works for an in-pool chaise?
Most are designed for ledges that are 9 to 12 inches deep. If the water is deeper than that, the chair may start to float. Always check the manufacturer’s depth rating before buying.
Q: How do I keep furniture from floating or shifting?
Look for those made for your tanning ledge’s exact water depth. If the chair isn’t rated for that depth, it can float. Look for designs with slip-resistant feet or anchoring features, too.
Q: Will chlorine and saltwater damage in-pool pieces?
Not if you choose the right material. High-quality options like resin (HDPE) or marine-grade polymer are built to resist pool chemicals and saltwater. Avoid furniture with exposed metal or vinyl straps.
Q: Do I need special umbrellas for shallow water?
Yes. Always use pool-safe umbrellas designed to sit in pool water. Standard patio umbrellas may not hold up well if they aren’t meant for submerged use.
