Outdoor Rugs Buying Guide

The addition of a rug to an outdoor space is the perfect finishing touch that brings indoor comfort and style to your home. The ideal outdoor rug is durable, and will stand up to significant wear from outdoor elements. While considering the outdoor rug best suited for your space and needs, LuxeDecor offers a guide to help select the best outdoor patio rug according to material, size, style and care.   

Outdoor Rug Materials

Material is the principal factor that determines a rug’s utility for outdoor use. Outdoor patio rugs are typically constructed either from synthetic fibers or natural fibers.

Synthetic

Synthetic fibers display the same look of high-quality natural fibers (such as wool) and are typically machine woven. Because of the chemical make up and compounds of manufactured fibers, synthetic fibers are non-porous which them easy to clean and stain resistant. Manufactured synthetic fiber rugs display a lower price. The most common synthetic rugs include:

• Polypropylene (Olefin): Polypropylene (also goes by Olefin) has become one of the go-to materials for indoor and outdoor use. Valued for its durable qualities, polypropylene maintains its vibrancy and color even when exposed to outdoor conditions such as light, heat, and precipitation. It is stain-, water-, and fade-resistant.

• Acrylic: Acrylic is a type of manufactured, synthetic fiber valued for its aesthetic qualities including its silky feel and brilliant luster. While it is not as durable as other synthetic fibers, acrylic rugs are mildew and moth resistant, easy to clean, and offer an attractive look at an affordable price.

Benefits: Durable in moist/wet conditions, easy to clean, lightweight, inexpensive

Natural

Natural fibers are extremely durable, and are naturally renewable, biodegradable, and sustainable. Because of its high quality, natural fiber rugs provide unmatched aesthetic value with its soft feel, and characteristic durability that holds up against wear. However, it must be noted that natural fiber rugs do not perform well in damp and wet conditions. Moisture can deteriorate natural fiber rugs with fading, and is not mildew resistant. The most common natural fiber rugs include:

• Bamboo: Bamboo rugs are naturally hypoallergenic, and are resistant to water and mold. Made from one of the most sustainable, fastest growing plants in the world, bamboo is incredibly strong. Bamboo area rugs can last anywhere from 3-10 years, and holds up well in high traffic areas and outdoor use.

• Sisal: Derived from the agave plant, sisal rugs are widely sought after for their naturally durable fibers which make them especially resilient against wear. The sustainably harvested plant displays a rope-like texture and a neutral light beige color that brings unique aesthetic value. Sisal area rugs are ideal for outdoor use because it does not trap dust or attract static build-up. However, when liquid is exposed and penetrates the fiber, sisal rugs are more susceptible to stains if not cleaned quickly.    

Benefits: Unparalleled aesthetic qualities, soft texture, durable, eco-friendly

Outdoor Rug Sizes

Choosing the right rug can transform the overall look of any space. When selecting the best area rugs to cover an outdoor space, the same principles apply as those for indoor rugs. Consider the space of your outdoor area, paying close attention to your furniture set-up and the architecture. An entryway rug will add a welcoming note to your doorstep, while also preventing dirt and debris from tracking into your home. Longer runner rugs can add a vibrant tone to narrow balconies, porches, and walkways, while large area rugs are best for dining and seating areas. If you’re covering a large area, the general rule of thumb to follow is to choose a rug that is 12-24 inches shorter than the edge of the perimeter of the outdoor space. Standard area rug sizes by area size include:

Outdoor Rug Styles

Outdoor Rug Shapes

Rectangular

• The most common rug shape are rectangular rugs which are versatile to use in any space, especially placed under a rectangular dining set or patio lounge set.
• Available in many sizes, rectangular rugs include runner rugs which are long and skinny, and are best served in narrow spaces such as balconies or porches.

Round

• Round area rugs create an intimate space with its unique shape which adds great visual variety and a more compact fit.
• A round area rug is best complimented by round patio sets such as a round patio dining set for four-people.

Square

• A cross between rectangular and round area rugs, a square rug displays the compact fit a round rug with the versatility of a rectangular rug.
• Square rugs are best for creating defined intimate spaces such as accenting furniture or creating conversational spaces.

Oval

• Oval rugs are most commonly used as entryway rugs, but are available in a number of sizes to suit many spaces.

Half-Circle

• Half-circle rugs are also most commonly used in entryways because it’s half-circle design is well-suited for a doorway.

Outdoor Rug Patterns and Colors

Striped Rugs

Striped rugs are an outdoor classic style which can add stylish edge with its vertical or horizontal patterns.

Geometric Patterned Rugs

From animal prints, chevron styles, Moroccan motifs, and quatrefoil patterns, geometric patterned rugs add a considerable amount of style to your outdoor space. These bold patterns make decorating a breeze and set the tone for your entire backyard space.

Solid Colored Rugs

No matter what color appeals to you, solid colored rugs are a simple way to bring a space together. You can bring a coordinated look to your outdoor space simply by choosing a color theme and matching accessories with a solid colored rug.

Bordered Rugs

Functional and decorative, bordered rugs add a bit more visual interest than a straightforward bordered rug. The border adds an effortless decorative element for those who shy away from patterns.

Outdoor Rug Care

• Depending on material, make sure to care for your rug regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• When storing a rug, always roll it, never fold a rug.
• Storing a rug is also recommended in colder climates during snowy and icy months when it is most exposed to moisture.
• In general, spot clean and vacuum synthetic rugs regularly to maintain their vibrancy. Make sure to clean both sides of your outdoor rug.
• Many synthetic fiber rubs can withstand mild cleaning detergents.
• Using a teaspoon of white vinegar with a quart of pure warm water is also a common cleaning solution used for both synthetic and natural fiber rugs.
• Whether made from synthetic or natural fibers, always dab excess moisture away when spills occur.
• Small cotton rugs can usually be machine-washed. Wash in warm weather with mild detergent.
• Jute rugs can usually withstand dabbing with club soda to remove stains.