The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor area rugs is that outdoor rugs are more sturdy and rigid—they are made out of materials that can withstand the outdoor elements. Outdoor area rugs can resist the sun’s harsh rays, heavy dust, debris, and rain, depending on the type of outdoor rug you choose. Placing an outdoor rug on your porch, patio, gazebo, or deck is a fashionable way to add more character to your outdoor spaces.
The impact of the weather on your outdoor rug is dependent on the material it’s made from and the type of weave it has. A tightly-woven rug can withstand elements like rain because the close-knit structure repels water. Although the rug may become damp, the colors and texture can be easily refreshed if you hang the rug on a line to dry completely. If your rug has a loose weave, it will absorb water and make it more prone to fading, discoloration, or mold. Outdoor area rugs are unique because they dry quickly and water beads on the surface tufting instead of soaking through. The Rug District has created this guide to help you choose the best outdoor area rug for your home.
Common Outdoor Rug Materials
The following materials are ideal for outdoor area rugs:
-
Polypropylene
Polypropylene outdoor rugs are among the longest-lasting area rugs on the market. They are even more sturdy than their ultra-durable polyester counterparts. Polypropylene outdoor rugs are widely popular for their strength and water-resistant properties. They are also resistant to stains, bugs, and mold and are ideal for high-traffic areas. The polypropylene outdoor rugs at The Rug District are also affordable. At our store, you will find propylene rugs in a wide variety of patterns and colors. Since they are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, they are highly sought-after. Some of our best-selling polypropylene rugs are our Veranda VR-16 Maritime Blue, which is made of 100% polypropylene. Another popular outdoor area rug is our Veranda VER093-0742, made of 87% polypropylene, 9.3% polyester, and 3.7% latex. Another beautiful addition to your outdoor spaces could be our Home & Garden RS022 Blue, which is made of 100% polypropylene and is available in different sizes and shapes, including rectangles, squares, and runners.
-
Polyester
Polyester outdoor rugs combine the best qualities of polypropylene and polyethylene (PET) to create lightweight, strong, and affordable area rugs for your outdoor spaces. Polyester can also withstand moderate rain, but it is essential that you dry out your polyester outdoor rug if it becomes wet to prevent mold from developing. In addition, polyester outdoor rugs shed fibers more quickly than other synthetic materials. However, a positive benefit of polyester is that it imitates the look and feel of natural fibers for a reasonable price.
-
Nylon
Nylon rugs are highly durable, sturdy, and colorfast. They are perfectly suited for high-traffic areas as they do not show wear easily. Nylon material tends to get extremely hot when left out in the sun, so we recommend placing your nylon outdoor rugs in shaded areas. Nylon rugs also absorb stains, so we recommend using a carpet protector spray to keep the stains from soaking in. Nylon rugs are suitable for outdoor use in all seasons, as they withstand rain, snow, and other harsh weather.
-
Acrylic
In today’s outdoor rug market, acrylic rugs are best-sellers because of how great they feel underfoot. Acrylic outdoor area rugs have grown in popularity due to their warmth, softness, and luxurious texture that looks and feels similar to wool. Acrylic is an ideal material for outdoor area rugs because it is resistant to degradation, sunlight, chemicals, oil stains, and moths. One of the best features of acrylic is that it releases moisture quickly, making it difficult for mildew and mold to grow.
Do’s And Don’ts Of Outdoor Area Rugs
-
Do make sure to use rug pads to keep your outdoor rug from slipping.
-
Do choose a color and style of rug that complements the furniture of your outdoor area to create an attractive, cohesive, and comfortable space.
-
Do buy your outdoor rug in the right size and shape, so it fits perfectly in your outdoor space.
-
Do choose an outdoor rug made from a waterproof or water-repellant material to minimize clean-up and maintenance.
-
Don’t use an indoor area rug outside.
-
Don’t forget to measure the dimensions of the area where you want to put your rug.
-
Don’t allow your outdoor area rug to remain wet for extended periods, as it may encourage mildew growth.
FAQs About Outdoor Rugs
How to clean and care for outdoor rugs?
Cleaning and maintaining outdoor area rugs is slightly different than caring for their indoor counterparts, but they also need to be cared for regularly to ensure they remain clean, vibrant, and durable. The best way to clean an outdoor area rug is to shake out or vacuum any dust or debris, rinse it out with a moderate-pressure spray from a garden hose, and hang it over a line to dry outside. We recommend that you avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents to clean your outdoor rug as it may cause fading or discoloration.
Will outdoor rugs damage a concrete or a wood deck?
With proper cleaning, care, and maintenance of your outdoor rug, there should be no issues with damage or discoloration to your concrete or wooden deck. However, if you leave your outdoor area rug out all year and don't dry it out after it rains or snows, you risk causing damage to the surface underneath. Moisture trapped under an outdoor rug for a long period of time can leech into the concrete's pores and cause staining or fading. When outdoor area rugs are left unmaintained on wooded decks, they are prone to mold and mildew, which can result in stains and potential wood rot underneath. Consistent cleaning and drying out after wet weather will increase the longevity of your outdoor area rug and ensure the surfaces below it are not damaged.
At The Rug District, we offer a wide range of outdoor area rugs that perfectly complement porches, patios, gazebos, decks, or any of your home’s outdoor spaces. Our extensive collection of outdoor areas rugs includes various patterns, colors, shapes, and sizes, including a unique selection of round outdoor rugs. Browse through our online catalog today to find the perfect outdoor rug for your home.
