10 Amazon Essentials Your Home Needs for Summer

Plant Stands and Plant Holders

Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a small patch of patio, or just a big, sunny window, summer is the perfect time to embrace a bit of nature in your life. Wooden plant stands are perfect for adding some depth and height to your plant display, and ceramic planters work perfectly inside and out. 

Bamworld Outdoor Tiered Plant Shelf

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A Statement Beach Umbrella

Beach umbrellas are designed with a purpose—to provide shade and stick out so you can easily find your spot in the sand. But with their neon stripes and aggressive patterns, they’re generally pretty hideous.

Luckily, this collection from Beach Brella is a gamechanger. With their soft and pretty patterns, decorative fringe, and large scalloped edges, you’ll stand out in a good way. 

Beach Brella Flora Beach Umbrella

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Decorative Cushion Covers

Swapping out your cushion covers is one of our favorite ways to seasonally refresh a room. They’re easy to store when not in use, can quickly change the color palette of a space, and, best of all, by rotating your covers out seasonally, you prolong their life. We love the bright pops of solid color or the muted neutrals in a sweet and simple farmhouse pattern. 

Hckot Farmhouse Throw Pillow Covers

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Blackout Curtains

One of the best things about summer is the long days of sunshine—unless you happen to sleep in a room heavily bathed in sunlight. In that case, blackout shades are an absolute necessity, and, much like cushion covers, they’re incredibly easy to swap out while also adding some color to your space. We spotted these on Amazon’s bestseller list, and the reviews have us ready to order a pair for every room.

NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtain Panels

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Citronella Candles and Decorative Holders

Citronella candles can be hit or miss. If you want them to be effective, you’re better off going with a tried and true brand made for outdoor enthusiasts. Unfortunately, these also tend to be less aesthetically pleasing.

But, you don’t have to compromise. Instead, pair your candles with some pretty outdoor candle holders that will hide them perfectly.

Cutter Scented Citronella Outdoor Candle

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OLEEK Metal Candle Holders

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Melamine Tableware

Whether you’re hosting parties or just planning family dinners on the patio, melamine dinnerware is a must-have. It immediately eliminates stress over breakages without compromising on style. Best of all, you can find pieces for everything from ice cream bowls to wine glasses. They’re usually microwave and dishwasher safe, too, but check the packaging to be sure.

Webbylee Melamine Dinnerware Set

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Indoor/Outdoor Area Rugs

If you’re designing your backyard or patio space, most experts suggest creating sections, much like you would in an open-plan room indoors. Outdoor rugs are perfect for designating your sitting area and offer softness and a touch of warmth. They also work well in indoor/outdoor areas or covered patios. 

nuLOOM Heidi Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug

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Outdoor Mood Lighting

Nights outside are best when lit correctly. Too harsh and the bugs fly in, too dim and there's no ambiance. But you don’t have to do a full lighting re-design, either. Look for small ways to add light, and if outdoor plugs are impossible, opt for solar-powered designs.

Baxstel 48FT Outdoor String Lights Edison Vintage Bulb

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A Cozy Place to Sit

Is there anything worse than an uncomfortable outdoor chair? Folding chairs might be easiest to stow and store, but if you have the space, splurge on a few spots designed with comfort in mind. When it’s time to curl up in the sun with a good book, you’ll thank yourself. 

Christopher Knight Teardrop Wicker Lounge Chair

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