What To Look For When Shopping For An Outdoor Rug

Utilizing your outdoor space to the best of your ability is a great way to make your home feel bigger and more appealing. An outdoor rug is a great way to make any outside space feel more cozy and home-like. These rugs, however, can vary significantly in quality and longevity. Therefore, it’s imperative you know what to look for when shopping for the perfect outdoor rug.

When shopping for an outdoor rug, make sure you choose one that is made from durable materials that can withstand harsh weather and UV light. Waterproof synthetic materials like polypropylene are much better than organic ones. Choose a rug that suits your aesthetic and one within your budget. You should regularly clean outdoor rugs, so choose one that is both easy to clean and easy to transport.

A patio, terrace, or porch area can feel like an extension of your living room, especially if you make it comfortable and add an outdoor rug. If you have an outdoor space, but no outside rug to tie the room together, then this article is for you. Below is a list of all the important qualities to look for in an outdoor rug, as well as some great ways to ensure your rug lasts as long as possible.

Eight Qualities To Look For When Shopping For An Outside Rug

1. Quality Construction

The first thing you need to look for when shopping for an outdoor rug, or any rug for that matter, is the quality of the construction. It can be easy to gravitate toward beautiful colors, designs, and materials, but craftsmanship is key. 

Outdoor rugs need to withstand harsher conditions than indoor rugs, so the quality of work matters. A beautiful rug that was poorly made will be in the trash in a year, or at least will look like it should be in the trash. 

2. Noticeable Airflow

Airflow might not be the first attribute you think of when shopping for rugs, but it should be. Outdoor rugs differ from indoor rugs in that they must endure nature’s elements, including moisture. If you have a rug with lots of airflow, you don’t need to worry as much about mold and mildew.

You don’t need the rug to have large holes, but you want material that has a loose enough weave for water to easily pass through. If your rug develops pools of water when it rains, it will quickly stain and can grow mold. Airflow is particularly important when you live in a wet climate.

3. Waterproof Or Water Resistant

Another quality you should look for when shopping for an outdoor rug is its waterproof and weatherproof qualities. Even when you live in a dry climate, it is bound to rain once in a while. You need a rug that can stand up to moisture.

Furthermore, outdoor rugs need to be cleaned. Cleaning a rug with a hose is easier than spot cleaning. Waterproof rugs tend to be quite durable as well. This combination of durable and waterproof is ideal if you are looking for an outdoor rug that will last you a while.

4. Synthetic Materials Over Organic Ones

As much as it can be tempting to buy an organic rug to match nature, you should resist this urge. Organic materials will decompose, as all organic matter does. Being outside, this decomposition process will happen much faster than you would like.

Instead, opt for synthetic materials when shopping for an outdoor rug. Polypropylene is the ideal outdoor rug material, especially for those in wet climates. If you live in a drier climate, you can opt for polyester. Nylon is another good choice and is known for its durability.

5. Choose The Right Aesthetic

Remember that your outdoor rug can go a very long way in tying your outdoor space together. Take the time to understand your outside aesthetic, and choose a rug that will match it. You can go bold or subtle. Just make sure the rug adds, and doesn't detract, from your space.

6. Shop Within Your Budget

In the end, your budget will guide your outdoor rug purchase. Outdoor rugs range from around $50 to well over $5,000. The good news is you can find a suitable, good-looking, and durable outdoor rug in nearly any price range. Just make sure you know your budget going in, so you can focus your search. 

7. Washable And Easy To Clean

Outdoor rugs need to be cleaned and washed regularly. This keeps them looking new and vibrant for longer. Therefore, your outdoor rug should be easy to wash. This means a durable and waterproof rug. Ideally, you will buy a rug that can handle a powerful blast from a garden hose, as this tends to be the easiest way to clean an outdoor rug.

8. Transportable And Easy To Store

If you live somewhere with four seasons, then you need an outdoor rug you can store. Storing a rug in the off-season will help your rug last longer, and it will also make it easier to pack away and set up your entire outdoor space. Find a rug that isn’t too heavy, and is easy to roll. An easy-to-transport rug is also easy to clean. 

Five Ways To Help Your Outdoor Rug Last Longer

1. Perform Regular Cleaning

Regardless of which type of outdoor rug you choose, you must clean it. Even the most durable outdoor rug will look filthy and terrible after a while. This is because nature’s elements will slowly make their way into the cracks and holes in the rug. Therefore, you must clean the rug regularly.

Some outdoor rugs can be thrown in your washing machine. Others are strong enough to endure a light pressure washing. Others may require extra work, like scrubbing with a cloth. In addition to sweeping your rug daily, your rug should be washed regularly to keep it looking great for a long time.

2. No Sharp Or Heavy Objects On Rug

Outdoor rugs tend to endure more than indoor ones, usually because there is a more rugged and careless vibe when we're outside. Unfortunately, this often means outdoor rugs ensure some unnecessary abuse. 

To avoid abusing your outdoor rug, keep sharp and heavy objects away from it. If you place a fancy and expensive patio set on the rug, make sure it is protected with padding. Remember, just because a rug is built to endure the outdoors, it does not make it indestructible. 

3. Clean Underneath The Rug 

It is easy to neglect what lies beneath the rug. After all, you don’t need to frequently clean underneath your indoor rugs. But outdoor rugs are very close to the ground. This means underneath them there is often dirt, bugs and water. 

Take the time to roll up the rug every month or two and wash what’s underneath. It will help keep your rug looking great. It will also protect the floor underneath. 

4. Keep It Out Of Direct Sunlight

While polypropylene is resistant to UV light damage, many other rugs are very vulnerable to the sun’s powerful rays. Sunlight can slowly bleach your rug’s colors. It can also eat away at the material, making the rug fragile over time. Try placing your outdoor rug out of direct sunlight. Consider investing in a new patio umbrella or retractable awning to provide plenty of shade, and also some protection for your outdoor rug and furniture.

5. Store It In The Off-Season

If you live in a climate with harsh winter, then storing your rug is a fantastic way to ensure your outdoor rug lasts a long time. When you close down your outdoor space for the winter, do not leave your outdoor rug outside to weather the harsh winter. 

Instead, clean it, let it dry, and then roll it up. Store it in a protected area like a basement or your garage. This can nearly double the longevity of your outdoor rug.

Summing Up How To Choose The Best Outdoor Rug

An outdoor rug is a great way to bring any outdoor living space to a new level. The trouble is there are so many types of rugs to choose from, that it can be easy to select one that isn’t ideal for your needs. When shopping for an outdoor rug, choose one with durable and weatherproof materials. Synthetic materials, especially polypropylene, are ideal. You want a rug that is easy to clean and transport, and make sure you choose one that is within your desired budget, as well as a rug that matches your outdoor aesthetic.

Related Guides:

• How To Arrange Patio Furniture
• How To Clean Patio Cushions
• Tips For Storing Patio Furniture During The Winter