How do I know if a rug is an outdoor rug?

Author: Ivory Frami  |  Last update: Saturday, January 13, 2024

Material matters
“A rug for the deck, patio, or outdoor space must be durable and weather sensitive.” While rugs, in general, come in a variety of materials, two stand out for outdoor use: synthetic and natural. Each has its own benefits. Polypropylene (aka olefin) is the most popular synthetic outdoor rug material.

How do you tell if it's an outdoor rug?

Indoor rugs are typically made from fibers like sisal, jute, and wool. Outdoor rugs are often made with more durable materials such as polypropylene and olefin, which can handle exposure to moisture and sunlight better than typical indoor fabrics.

What is the difference between an outdoor rug and an area rug?

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.

Can you put a normal rug outside?

No. With the exception of sisal, jute and seagrass (which can be considered indoor/outdoor materials to some extent, as they can be used in relatively protected areas such as covered porches, pavilions, gazebos or sunrooms), indoor rugs are not designed to hold up to UV light, dirt, and moisture.

What rugs are suitable for outdoors?

Most outdoor rugs are made with synthetic fibers like polypropylene, olefin or polyester, which tend to be more durable than natural fibers. They're also more likely to resist stains, mildew and fading from UV rays.

How to choose and care for an outdoor rug

Can outdoor rugs stay outside in winter?

Choosing to leave your outdoor rug outside through winter's harsh temperatures and weather conditions will definitely not help to prolong its life. Extended exposure to moisture under piles of snow will most certainly encourage mold and mildew to grow not to mention eventual damage from freezing temps.

Do I need to put anything under an outdoor rug?

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.

Do you leave outdoor rugs out in the rain?

Outdoor rugs are designed to be outside all year round and can withstand sun, rain, sleet, and snow. So, forgetting to store your outdoor rug this year doesn't necessarily mean you need to ask Santa for a new one next year.

What happens to outdoor rugs when they get wet?

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.

Can you put a rug in an outdoor patio?

Area rugs are one of the most essential features of your outdoor patio space. Many designers even start with the rug and decorate around it. It's the highlight, the focal point of your outdoor arrangement. Much care and attention must be placed on selecting the perfect outdoor area rug for your patio.

Can you leave outdoor rugs out all summer?

The option to leave it outside all year round

Those made from natural materials will likely be resistant but may be more prone to water absorption, leading to mould or mildew if exposed to the elements over time. You can extend the life of your rug by storing it away during the winter months when it's not in use.

Why are outdoor rugs so expensive?

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.

What size is an outdoor rug?

Small:Small outdoor rugs sizes usually measure 4' x 6' or smaller. They are ideal as accent rugs on patios or to create a welcoming entryway. Medium: Medium outdoor rug sizes include 5' x 8' and 7' x 9'. They can help you create numerous designs, define the style of and even divide outdoor areas.

How can I tell what my area rug is made of?

Judge by Feel

Touch the front of it. Does it feel soft, almost buttery? If so, then it is most likely a wool rug. However, if it feels hard, scratchy and stiff, it's most likely made from a synthetic material.

Do you vacuum outdoor rugs?

Vacuum your outdoor rug frequently to keep dirt, dust and stains at bay. Vacuum both sides of the rug every few weeks to help loosen dirt and debris and to keep your indoor outdoor rug looking its best.

Does mold grow under outdoor rugs?

Mildew and mold can grow within the fibers of your outdoor rug if the rug is exposed to water or humidity over extended periods of time. This is because wet environments create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Can you put an outdoor rug on an uncovered patio?

When it comes to putting a rug on your deck—or any other uncovered space outside—we highly recommend choosing a rug made specifically for outdoor use. Regular indoor rugs, and specifically those made from natural fibers like jute or wool, are not meant to be placed outside.

Do outdoor rugs get moldy underneath?

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 long does it take a rug to air-dry outside?

There are many factors that determine how long before your rug is completely dry. In general, rugs can be fully dried between 6 and 12 hours. However, deeper shag rugs or large area rugs may take longer thanks to their deep fibers and water absorption.

How long does it take for a rug to dry outside?

Use a towel to soak up as much of the excess water as possible. Let it air-dry outside on a laundry drying rack. This may take 24 hours or more. If you cannot leave the rug outside for a long time, move it to your garage, basement, or laundry room to continue air-drying.

How long does it take an outdoor rug to dry?

Use the garden hose or power washer to rinse away the soapy solution. Hang the rug to air-dry. This can take up to eight hours, turn it over at least once so that air circulates well on both sides. It is best to dry the rug completely before putting it back in place.

Do outdoor rugs attract bugs?

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.

Why get an indoor outdoor rug?

They're resistant to all weather conditions, from harsh UV rays to a downpour of water; plus, they're naturally stain-repelling. Not all indoor/outdoor carpet is sustainably made, so we're proud to be able to say our rugs are recycled and recyclable.

Should you have a rug inside or outside the front door?

A rug is a great way to protect flooring near your front door from dirt, snow, rain and sunshine. We also recommend placing a door mat outside your front door so people can wipe their feet before they come in.

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