A cosy hanging chair can add a distinctive touch to any interior. Whether you want to relax on your balcony or give your living room a bohemian feel, it’s worth investing in one.
The curved form of the egg chair encases you, providing a cocoon-like seclusion that’s ideal for reading, relaxing or even short naps. However, before buying one, it’s important to know what to look for.
Comfort
The comfort of an egg chair depends on the design. Some hanging styles have a chic, rounded bauble appearance, while others are more like an elongated cocoon or teardrop shape. There are also solo-seater designs or side-by-side, couple-friendly options.
Some have a sturdy, powder-coated aluminium or treated metal frame and woven weatherproof materials that can withstand Britain’s soggiest, windiest and sunniest days. Other designs include recycled timber accents and responsible sourcing, which contribute to environmental responsibility (One Home).
Often, the enveloping shape feels protective and secure and enables you to relax or even take short naps. This sense of security appeals to both children and adults. For kids, it can feel like their own private reading nook or imaginative play space. For parents, it’s a chance to unwind from busy family life and enjoy some peace and quiet.
If you’re thinking of buying an egg swing chair, check the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity to avoid injury. Also, be sure to secure the chair and use it properly in a safe location. When compared to freestanding designs, hanging styles tend to be less stable, so extra supervision may be required when families with young children are using them. They also have more movement than standard garden chairs, which can create a playful experience but can pose additional safety risks if used on uneven ground or excessively.
Design
Whether it hangs from a stand and swings gently, swivels around on a base or sits static, the right egg chair transforms any corner of your garden or conservatory into a meditative idyll. There’s an egg-basket silhouette to suit any colour scheme, style preference and family requirement – from teardrop designs to elongated cocoons or even side-by-side double models. There’s also a choice of materials, including rust-resistant aluminium, rope on a metallic frame or natural-looking synthetic rattan to suit the look and feel you’re after.
It’s worth noting that, while most models on this list can be used indoors or out, the ones rated for outdoor use are best to withstand soggy weather and regular wear and tear. Premium chairs should be well made, durable and long-lasting – but they should also feel supportive, calm and inviting to spend time in regardless of the season.
If you want a budget option that’s comfortable and surprisingly easy to put together, Wilko’s Sophia double egg design is a great choice. It has a large enough seat and back cushions to be comfortable for a couple but still fits on a small balcony or patio. It takes a little longer to put together than the other options on this list but it’s sturdy once complete and comes with a made-to-fit cover for added protection from sun and rain.
Materials
The right materials boost comfort, durability, and aesthetics. Choose a powder-coated aluminium frame and HDPE or marine-grade synthetic rattan for strong performance in high-traffic outdoor spaces. These materials resist rust, UV damage, and moisture. They also resist fading and mildew, helping to maintain appearance, performance, and longevity.
For the cushions, choose solution-dyed acrylic fabrics that are mildew- and water-resistant to minimise maintenance. These fabrics have quick-dry foam cores to prevent moisture buildup, speeding up drying time and keeping the cushions guest-ready for long periods of time.
Using the right materials for your egg chair also helps reduce maintenance costs and boosts sustainability. For example, untreated steel rusts easily, making it an unsuitable material for harsh climates or busy hospitality settings. Powder-coated aluminium and synthetic rattan are durable alternatives that can withstand daily use, moisture, UV rays, and rust.
Aim for a weekly cleaning routine with recommended solutions to keep frames and rattan clean and free of odours. This is key to reducing fading, rust, and mould in outdoor egg chairs. Taking additional steps like storing the cushions in a sheltered area or indoor storage during harsh weather can further reduce exposure, extending their lifespan and performance. These maintenance strategies support a healthy environment for your guests, improving their comfort and boosting the long-term value of your hospitality property.
Safety
Many people wonder whether an egg chair is safe to sit in or not. These chairs can be incredibly comfortable, but they’re also quite heavy. They may not be suitable for small children, who could accidentally fall out. They’re also not recommended for elderly people, who may find them uncomfortable.
If you’re considering a hanging PE rattan chair, make sure it’s rated for the weight of its owner. The manufacturer will indicate this information in the product description, and you can check the stability by gently tugging on the chair and swaying it. Also, always make sure the ceiling joist and hardware are rated for the weight of the chair and user and that they’re properly fastened.
Unlike freestanding seats, hanging models require a stand and a dedicated space. They also take up more floor space than those without a stand, and their permanent suspension from the ceiling requires careful installation. To ensure a safe installation, follow the instructions carefully and use tools that are rated for your egg chair’s weight capacity. Also, assemble the chair and check all connections before applying significant pressure to it. Also, apply a gentle tug to the chair and sway it while seated to test its stability. If you notice any flexing or wobbling, tighten the bolts and check all knots and carabiners before normal use.
