5 Outdoor Items Designers Always Snag at ALDI When They See Them

Who doesn’t love a budget-friendly buy? Particularly when the payoff creates a space that practically begs you to put your outdoor oasis to use, whether in entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Creating a dreamy outdoor space without breaking the bank is easier than it sounds, particularly if you’re lucky enough to live near an ALDI. It turns out, the supermarket chain is hiding a not-so-little secret—it’s an excellent destination for budget-friendly decor buys.

“Being an interior designer, I'm forever on the lookout for hidden gems that deliver both style and value, and ALDI's seasonal aisles can truly be a goldmine of outdoor living essentials,” says Lewis Nguyen, owner and lighting designer at IndochinaLight. “They have this wonderful way of bringing in stylish, functional pieces at unbelievably low costs.” Read on to discover what the designer looks for to upgrade his own outdoor space when he peruses the aisles.

1. String Lights

Even a lighting design expert can’t deny the appeal of ALDI's lineup of solar-powered string lights, pathway lights, and lanterns. “These are perfect since they're not just decorative, they're also functional, creating ambiance and boosting safety without needing an outdoor outlet,” Nguyen says. He commends the low price point and high-quality products as a winning investment for your outdoor space. “They come in a variety of styles, from classic warm white to more fantastical designs, perfect for adding a little bit of magic to a patio, balcony, or garden nook.”

2. Planters

Nguyen is also a fan of sleuthing out ceramic and wooden planters within the aisles of ALDI. For adding pops of color to your outdoor area, the designer says the cost-conscious designs can’t be beaten. “I love that they generally offer trendy dupes of more expensive designs so that you can achieve a high-end look without the hefty price tag,” he says. But, as with any product that’s a good buy for the price, these hot ticket items will go fast. “Be sure to pick them up early, as these beloved seasonal treats have a way of vanishing from the shelves,” Nguyen warns.

3. Multi-use Seating

If you’re working with a small outdoor space, multi-use seating is crucial, especially if it comes with a budget-friendly price tag. Think ottomans and benches that can double as seating, or even a side table that also serves as a storage vessel. “I've seen some great folding rocking chairs and bistro sets that would be ideal for small spaces like balconies,” says Nguyen. While they can add style and functionality to your space, the designer says part of their appeal is how easily they can be stowed away when not in use.

4. Folding Tables

Summer and early fall are the prime time for outdoor entertaining. Ensuring you have the right amount of tabletop space is key from both a dining and serving standpoint. “ALDI consistently carries compact, heavy-duty folding tables that are perfect for impromptu al fresco dining or as extra serving space when you're entertaining,” says Nguyen. Pick up a few of these versatile tables to create flexible zones for dining, a buffet spread, and even an outdoor bar. “Look for their ‘Belavi’ brand items; they usually have very trendy styles for their low cost.”

5. Early Fall and Halloween Decor

While summer is usually not the time to think about ghost and goblin decor, Halloween is just around the corner, and ALDI's holiday items typically drop in August. “You can often find wonderful, on-trend decorative pieces like themed lanterns, cute garden stakes, and even larger prop elements,” says Nguyen. Look for themed coffee mugs, inflatables, and poseable skeletons. Just beware, these spooky items won’t last, so plan to hit your local ALDI store soon after they drop for the best selection.