Unlike indoor rugs, outdoor rugs are made from materials that can withstand the outdoor elements, which is why indoor rugs should not be brought outside. Because of these durable materials, they also hold up well in high-traffic areas. Outdoor rugs are typically fashioned from synthetic materials or plant fibers.
And don't expect them to last a lifetime. Unlike typical outdoor furnishings, outdoor rugs don't have a long life span. You can expect them to last three to seven years, and shorter if you live in a humid or subtropical climate. The most important factor when looking at a rug is breathability.
There are three main reasons to buy an outdoor rug: to protect and prevent surface area damage, for safety to avoid slips and falls, and to add a stylish element to a space, says Wagner. But it's also important to factor in breathability. If the rug material doesn't allow for airflow, mildew will likely be a problem.
Outdoor Rugs are extremely durable to survive wet weather conditions. The mould & mildrew resistant materials mean your Outdoor Rug will not go mouldy when it gets wet. However, in colder months during snowy and icy conditions, we recommend storing your rug away.
While the Outdoor Rug Covers are built to be durable, it's best to clean and store them indoors before the snow season starts or during any other extreme weather conditions.
But it's a common question when it comes to outdoor rugs. What will happen to outdoor rugs when they get wet? If your outdoor rug gets wet and isn't properly dried, the rug will likely grow mildew. This creates unhealthy conditions that can lead to mould growing.
Even though they're made of mold-resistant synthetic materials, outdoor rugs can still get moldy. The accumulation of dirt and moisture in carpet fibers will promote mold growth.
How to clean outdoor rugs: Unless the outdoor rug is resin/polyester woven, you most likely will battle green mildew, dirt, or weather stains on your outdoor rugs since they aren't as water resistant. It's actually pretty easy to clean your rugs, but it does take a little muscle work to scrub them!
Maybe you're wondering if all is lost. Do the layers of ice and snow foretell “rugmaggdeon”—the end of the rug? It's really not all that dramatic. Outdoor rugs are designed to be outside all year round and can withstand sun, rain, sleet, and snow.
But many people have reservations about doing so, and wonder if outdoor rugs can harm or ruin their deck. The short answer is that outdoor rugs are actually made to go on decks, and you have many great deck rug options at your fingertips.
To put it simply, yes, you need a rug pad for your outdoor rug. Without one, you risk your outdoor rug wearing out quickly. Outdoor rugs also have a tendency to move around on their own causing a slipping hazard, so a non slip pad can help provide a safer outdoor space.
PRO: Natural fibers like sisal, jute, and bamboo are great for the environment when made into goods like rugs. CON: Sisal and jute rugs are likely to mold and mildew if left in wet environments. These fibers are best in dry outdoor areas such as sunrooms and screened in porches.
Outdoor rugs are made of high-quality materials that are manufactured to withstand all weather conditions, rain or shine, a factor that contributes to the final cost.
Yes, outdoor rugs can get wet. As outlined, rugs man-made rugs made of synthetic fibers, especially polypropylene, are the most durable and least likely to foster mold and mildew.
Outdoor rugs, carpets, and mats accumulate dirt, bugs, and allergens that are easy to track into the house. Luckily, because most outdoor rugs are built to withstand the elements, your guests might be none the wiser.
If left outside year-round and without proper maintenance, your outdoor rug will need replacing every two or three years. We strongly recommend using an outdoor rug pad with every outdoor rug as it serves multiple useful purposes.
Durable & Practical
Synthetic and blended fiber outdoor rugs are perfect for busy indoor areas. Kitchens, dining rooms and other spill-prone rooms benefit from having a stain-resistant rug between disaster and the flooring. Outdoor rugs are also kid and pet friendly.
If moisture is a top concern, shop for an outdoor rug constructed primarily of polypropylene, suggests Hamwey. “Polypropylene rugs are best known for their strength and water-resistant properties, making them an ideal choice in terms of their ability to withstand rain or moisture,” she says.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Area Rug
Any time you see severe rain coming, roll up the area rug and store it in a dry place, such as the garage. Adding a gazebo or pergola over your outdoor space will help protect your area rug from the elements.
Natural fibre outdoor rugs will deteriorate a wood deck since they absorb a lot of water. This discharge facilitates the growth of mildew, which causes the wood to decay. Rugs made of polypropylene preserve decks better since they are weather resistant.
How to Wash an Outdoor Rug. Simply use a garden hose to get rid of any dirt, mud or spillages. Good news is you won't need any soap! First off, remove any debris from your rug by vacuuming or brushing it with a soft brush.
Power-washing or hosing down a rug with shampoo and sanitizing solutions can often fix and protect against common mildew problems. Once your rug is washed, air-dry it in a sunny spot, and be sure to hang it in a way that promotes a healthy amount of circulation.
Algae thrive in damp and humid environments. If you let your outdoor rug sit outside for too long in this weather, algae may begin to grow.
Because hydrogen peroxide is a natural antifungal, you can use it on pretty much any surface to stop and even eradicate mold. Combine about 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle, apply to the area, and leave for 10 minutes. Then scrub the mixture out and dry the area.
Keep throw rugs that have gotten wet only if they can be thoroughly washed and do not smell moldy once they dry.” If the mold was caused by flooding that included sewage or other contaminated water, then the carpet is not salvageable and must be replaced. It is important to wear proper safety gear when removing mold.