35 Clever Things That Make Your Backyard Useable In The Fall & Winter

With folding legs that break down for easy transportation (while not lit), this fire pit is perfect for car camping, backyard get-togethers, or even just making s'mores. It's made from durable steel that's heat-resistant, and the mesh cover helps prevent embers and debris from popping onto the ground.

With removable trays for chocolate bars, graham crackers, and marshmallows, this s'mores caddy makes it easy to carry all your ingredients from the kitchen to your campfire. While the ingredients don't come included, one reviewer raved that it's "so much better" than stuffing everything into a plastic shopping bag.

Add these LED tiki torches to your gardens, walkways, or even to your campsite, and they'll help illuminate your way in the dark. The light flickers to simulate a real flame, and the solar-powered battery lasts for up to 12 hours when fully charged — which only takes about five hours.

You don't have to sit outside in the dark just because the sun went down. Instead, you can illuminate your yard with these umbrella lights. The warm white light casts a cozy ambiance across your patio, and each order comes with a remote control so that you can control them without having to reach up.

Hang these solar-powered lamps anywhere or place them on a patio table to light up your backyard at night. Each light is waterproof, so you don't have to worry about rain — and they provide up to 12 hours of light on one charge. Plus, they’ll turn on automatically when the sun sets, so they’re super low maintenance.

My old phone has pretty lousy battery life, which is why I keep this electronic hand warmer in my backpack at all times. Not only does it work as an external battery when my phone needs a charge, but it's also nice to keep on hand (since I get cold easily). The temperature is adjustable, and it's mad from durable, aircraft-grade aluminum.

Made with soft, extra-plush fabric, this sweatshirt is so comfortable that it feels like you're lounging — or even getting the mail — in a cozy blanket. The double-sided flannel fabric features a windproof layer to help you stay warm if you wear it outside, and the large pocket is great for remotes, phones, or even a hand warmer.

Don't let the wind and rain damage your patio furniture over time; help keep them protected with these covers. They're made from heavy-duty Oxford fabric that's waterproof as well as UV-resistant, and the elastic hem on the bottom is adjustable for a custom, tight fit.

If your patio chairs are as uncomfortable as mine were, you're going to love this sherpa chair cushion. It's ergonomically designed to support your lumbar so that your back doesn't ache halfway through the day, and there are tons of colors to choose from — wine, pink, coffee, and more.

Not only does this cover help protect your furniture from wear and tear, but it's also heated to help you relax after a long, stressful day. The temperature is adjustable up to four levels for added comfort, and the non-skid backing helps it stay in place without shifting.

For added comfort when it gets chilly, slip on these cozy ear muffs. The behind-the-ear warmers are lined with soft, warm fleece and have full-coverage ear cups and an adjustable band so you can find the best fit. Best of all, you can choose from six cute styles, including plaid and cable-knit designs.

Instead of wiping down your patio furniture every time you want to sit, just keep it protected from weather and dirt with this cover. Dust-proof as well as waterproof, this cover is large enough for most rectangular dining sets (there are many different sizes available). The toggle on the bottom lets you adjust how it fits.

Instead of leaving your firewood out in a pile, just keep it looking neat and tidy on this rack. The heavy-duty steel frame shouldn't warp under dozens of logs, and it's rust- as well as weather-resistant. Each order comes with all the necessary hardware for assembly.

Looking to step up your backyard barbecue game? This heated food server will make any buffet table look professional. It's made from high-quality stainless steel that's stain- as well as rust-resistant, and the containers nest inside of each other for easy storage.

Don't let the rest of your dinner grow cold while everyone's enjoying snacks on the patio — just keep it on this warming tray. It's large enough to fit multiple dishes, and all types of baking pans, dishes, pots, and more are compatible. One reviewer even raved that "It kept the food nice and warm without concern for burning."

Whereas many warming plates have to be turned on and off, this one works as soon as you put a mug on the plate. The built-in temperature control helps prevent it from overheating, and it's designed to keep your drinks at a constant 131 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, it’s waterproof for added peace of mind.

Looking for an umbrella light that's super versatile? This one is made to wrap around your umbrella pole — but it can also be used in tents, hung up on string lights, or even used standalone. Plus, it only requires four AA batteries (which aren't included).

There's no need to fret if you accidentally leave this UV bug zapper outside, as the waterproof casing will help keep it protected from the rain. Cleaning it is as easy as unscrewing the bottom and emptying out the collected bugs, and each order even comes with a miniature brush so you can keep your hands clean.

I have these string lights woven through the lattice on my balcony, and the glow they cast is so cozy I sometimes fall asleep out there. The bulbs are advertised as being waterproof — I've watered mine without any issue — and you can connect up to three strands for extra-large patios.

Tons of puck lights require batteries — but not these ones. Not only are they solar-powered, but each one is also waterproof for added durability. You can easily mount them anywhere using the included adhesive, and one reviewer even raved about how "bright" they are.

This heated blanket is perfect for cozying up outside on your patio furniture. Just plug it in and control the heat with the attached remote (there are six warmth levels to choose from). The blanket itself is double-sided — one with flannel and the other with fluffy sherpa — and it boasts an auto-shutoff feature that kicks in after four hours.

It only takes a few seconds for your pet to accidentally eat something they shouldn't have, but you can keep them protected in the winter with this pet-safe ice melt. Formulated without any chloride, it works just as well as rock salt — but it lasts up to three times longer to help prevent re-icing on your driveway over and over again.

The sky is the limit with this hardwood walkway. Lay it down in your garden as a chic path, or even connect several back-to-back to create a trail to your patio. Each plank is made from weather-resistant cedar, and they easily rinse clean with a hose.

As long as you keep this snow broom in your car (or on your back porch), you'll never be caught with an icy windshield or window after a storm. The foam sweeper head is nonabrasive, and the handle extends to help you reach the very top. The best part? There's also an ice scraper at the bottom of the handle.

I lay this outdoor blanket down whenever I want to go relax in my backyard. Not only is it waterproof so that I stay high and dry, but it also folds down into a convenient travel bag when I'm done. Unlike other outdoor blankets, this one is large enough for up to three adults — so go ahead and have a picnic with your friends.

Whether you're camping or kicking back on your patio, this elevated bed gives your pet a luxurious spot to rest with you. It's great for dogs and cats alike, since the steel frame is able to support up to 100 pounds — and the thick padding is soft on their joints.

Anyone who’s sat down on ice-cold metal, wood, or cement knows that cushions aren’t just for summer. These colorful, printed chair cushions come in a huge variety of sizes, so it’s easy to find one that’ll fit your pieces whether it’s a chair or a bench. You could even lay them down on the ground for a movie night or just extra company. Fade- and water-resistant, they’re built for long-term use.

If you've ever dreamed of having your own chic hammock chair, now's your chance to grab this one that arrives with warm lights pre-installed. It's made from 100% cotton — and if you don't want to mount it into your ceiling, don't worry — you can grab a stand for it here.

Whether you’re hanging in your backyard, camping, or taking the dog for a night walk, there’s no reason to stumble around in the dark. Just follow the glow from this portable LED rope light. The five-foot string of lights can be used three different ways: hang it with the included ties, stick it with the included magnetic slides, or stuff it into the included pouch to use as a lantern (great in case of emergency). There’s even an included remote control.

Guess what? This warming plate doesn't need any electricity in order to work. It features a stone center that absorbs heat in order to keep your meals warm, and it has cool handles for easy portability. According to the manufacturer, all you have to do is place it in the microwave for a couple of minutes prior to use.

Many bento boxes are made from plastic — but not this one. Not only is it made from rust-resistant stainless steel, but it's also vacuum-insulated to help cold meals stay chilled while hot foods keep warm. It's leakproof and BPA-free — and each order even comes with utensils.

If you’re hosting guests in your backyard, they’ll appreciate an illuminated path to guide their way (and you will too). This six-pack of solar-powered garden lights provides energy-efficient light that lasts up to 12 hours. The sturdy, stainless steel build has a weather-resistant design so you can leave them in the ground season after season. One shopper raved, “Not only are they functional, but they can add a great aesthetic to the outside of your home.”

These citronella candles come in gorgeous tins that'll add to your patio decor, all while keeping the mosquitos away. Each lasts up to 35 hours, and you get three in a pack so you’ll get hours of enjoyment. “The smell is soft and clean,” wrote one reviewer. “Not a strong citronella but a nice, lemony- herb scent. I get compliments every time someone is over and we use these. And they are effective!”

If you enjoy sipping coffee outside on chilly mornings but wish your coffee would stay warm amid the cold weather, you'll probably love this mug. It's double-insulated and made of stainless steel so that your beverage stays warm, and it even has a lid for more protection. Not to mention, it's available in over 15 colors and can be cleaned in the dishwasher.

Get cozy in your backyard with these plush slippers that can be worn outside. Not only do they have waterproof outsoles made with anti-skid rubber, but they're also lined with fuzzy fleece and have memory foam footbeds. These slippers are available in five colors.

• Available sizes: 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12