Is an outdoor rug a good idea?

An outdoor rug can be a great addition to any patio, deck, or outdoor living space. Outdoor rugs serve both practical and decorative purposes. On the practical side, they define spaces, provide a soft surface for bare feet, and protect your deck or patio from dirt, spills and furniture scratches. Decoratively, outdoor rugs add color, texture and style to your outdoor area.

But is an outdoor rug really a good idea for your particular space? Here are some key considerations when deciding whether an outdoor rug is right for you:

What is your climate like?

Outdoor rugs are suitable for a wide range of climates, but some extremes may cause issues. In very hot desert climates, some rug materials like nylon may become too hot underfoot when sitting in the sun all day. Prolonged strong sunlight can also cause fading over time. In climates with frequent heavy rain, outdoor rugs need to be able to dry out quickly between storms to avoid mold and mildew. Frequent snow may require frequent shaking or brushing to keep a rug from becoming waterlogged. Think about your specific location and weather patterns.

Do you have a covered or uncovered space?

Rugs last longer when placed in a covered outdoor area protected from the elements. An uncovered patio or deck will expose the rug to more rain, sun, dirt and debris. Frequent exposure to water can breed mold and mildew in the fibers. Sunlight will cause fading over time. Even occasional wetness combined with dirt on an uncovered surface can lead to staining. Rugs in uncovered areas require more frequent cleaning.

What size rug do you need?

Outdoor rugs come in standard sizes like 3’x5′, 5’x8′ and 8’x10′. Or you can custom order specific dimensions. Determine your ideal size based on the furniture placement and traffic patterns in your space. The rug should be large enough to define the sitting/conversation area, while still allowing enough border for movement around the edges. An outdoor dining space may need a rug sizable enough to fit the table and chairs without chairs resting off the edge.

What shape works best?

Rectangular rugs are most common for outdoor use. But round, oval, square and runner shapes can also work nicely depending on your setup. A round or oval shape helps define a seating area that is accessed equally from all sides. A runner is ideal for a straight traffic pattern.

What material is best?

Outdoor rugs come in both natural and synthetic fibers, each with pros and cons:

Natural fibers:

• Jute, seagrass, sisal – inherently water-resistant and breathable
• May fade and degrade more quickly than synthetics
• Eco-friendly materials
• Provide a casual, coastal look

Synthetic fibers:

• Polypropylene, nylon, polyester – colorfast and stain resistant
• Withstand weather and heavy foot traffic
• Easy to clean
• Some plastics can get hot in strong, direct sunlight

Consider your climate, amount of shade, and desired style. Synthetics are better for harsh, wet climates with full sun exposure. Natural fibers work well in partial shade where they won’t fade as quickly.

What thickness (pile height)?

Outdoor rug pile heights range from low profile to plush:

• Low pile (1/4″ or less): Best for high traffic areas, easy to clean. Minimal heat retention.
• Medium pile (1/2″ – 1″): Provides some softness underfoot. Versatile for many spaces.
• High pile (1.5″ – 2″): Plushest feel underfoot. More difficult to clean. Can retain heat in direct sun.

Consider your climate and primary rug functions. Low pile is best for dining areas where chairs will slide over the rug. High pile provides the most comfort for bare feet in lounging areas.

What price range?

Outdoor rugs span a wide range of budgets. Less expensive rugs ($50-$250) are typically made with basic synthetic fibers like polypropylene. Medium-tier rugs ($250-$800) offer more design options and last longer, using fibers like polyester or UV-treated polypropylene. High-end rugs ($800+) often incorporate natural fibers like jute or seagrass, with intricate patterns and durability.

Pros of Using an Outdoor Rug

Here are some of the benefits that make outdoor rugs a good idea for many patio and deck spaces:

Defines and anchors space

A properly sized and shaped outdoor rug visually defines and anchors a sitting, dining or conversation area. It creates a boundary that unconsciously tells people where to gather and furniture where to be placed.

Softens hard surfaces

Concrete, wood and other hard patio and deck surfaces can be uncomfortable for bare feet and legs. Outdoor rugs provide a softer, more forgiving surface for comfort. Plush high pile rugs feel best underfoot.

Protects surface underneath

An outdoor rug will preserve your concrete, tile, decking or other hard flooring surface from damage. It cushions against dents and scratches from heavy furniture or sharp table legs. Spills and food mess stay on top of the rug instead of staining the floor below.

Traps dirt, dust and debris

Outdoor rugs help confine dirt, dust, pollen, grass, leaves and other debris to the rug surface, preventing it from being tracked onto your indoor floors. Simply shake out, sweep or vacuum debris from the rug as needed.

Absorbs sound

Outdoor rugs can help absorb noise in an outdoor area, creating a more peaceful environment. This allows for easier conversation without raised voices.

Adds color and style

Outdoor rugs are available in endless colors, patterns and textures to match your style. They can complement or pull together the other decor elements in your outdoor space for a put-together look.

Warms bare feet

Rugs feel more comfortable and warmer than bare concrete or wood under your feet. This encourages you to go barefoot and enjoy the space.

Cons of Using an Outdoor Rug

There are also a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind with outdoor rugs:

Can get wet/hold moisture

Unless in a fully covered area, outdoor rugs will get rained on periodically. Some moisture will get soaked up and held in the rug fibers and backing. This can breed mold and mildew if not dried out sufficiently between wetting. Flipping the rug over or angling a wet rug to promote drying helps.

Can stain over time

Outdoor rugs are prone to staining from spills, weather exposure and dirty shoes. Food, drinks, leaves, mud and mildew are common culprits. Although stain resistant, synthetic fibers will still stain under the right conditions if not cleaned promptly.

Requires maintenance

To keep an outdoor rug looking its best, occasional maintenance is required. This includes shaking out debris, spot cleaning stains, spraying off dirt with a hose, thorough cleaning once or twice per year, and consistent vacuuming/sweeping. Some periodic maintenance is essential.

Can fade over time

All outdoor rug fibers are susceptible to fading from sun exposure, but natural fibers fade most quickly. Fading accelerates in regions with very strong sun. Even synthetic fibers will gradually fade over years. Rotating the direction of the rug periodically helps distribute sun fading.

Can blow away in wind

Lightweight rugs may blow away or shift around in strong winds if not secured. Heavier rugs are less prone to this issue. But using rug anchors or gripper pads can help stabilize any weight rug.

May require rug pad

On smooth surfaces like concrete, outdoor rugs can slide around underfoot or bunch up. Using an outdoor-safe non-slip rug pad provides traction and keeps the rug firmly in place.

Can retain heat

In hot, sunny climates, dark rugs and rugs with high pile can get quite hot for bare feet. Light colors and low pile mitigate this issue. But rugs will always be warmer than bare concrete or wood.

Best Outdoor Rug Materials

Outdoor rugs are constructed from either synthetic or natural fibers. Here is how the most common materials compare:

Material	Durability	Stain Resistance	Fade Resistance	Mildew Resistance	Comfort Underfoot
Polypropylene	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Nylon	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Polyester	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Jute	Moderate	Moderate	Poor	Moderate	Excellent
Sisal	Moderate	Moderate	Poor	Moderate	Moderate
Seagrass	Moderate	Moderate	Poor	Good	Moderate

Polypropylene, nylon and polyester synthetics offer the greatest durability and weather resistance. But natural fibers like jute, sisal and seagrass provide a softer touch underfoot.

Within synthetics, olefin and polypropylene are budget-friendly options, while nylon and polyester are higher-performing and cost a bit more. Acrylic and rayon are sometimes used for colorful outdoor rugs but don’t hold up as well long-term outdoors.

Tips for Choosing an Outdoor Rug

If an outdoor rug seems like the right fit for your space, keep these tips in mind for choosing the best one:

Select a tight weave

A rug with a tight, high quality weave will withstand weather and foot traffic better than a loose weave. Examine the rug closely to make sure little light shines through the fiber weave. Synthetic fibers are typically woven more tightly than natural.

Get the right size and shape

Take measurements to find a rug scaled to fit your specific furniture layout. Make sure any chairs won’t hang off the edges. Rectangles suit most spaces, but explore unique shapes for your layout.

Match climate and sun exposure

Consider fiber type, color and pile height based on your regional weather and amount of shade/sun. Synthetics withstand wet weather and sun better than natural fibers.

Prepare the surface underneath

Your concrete, wood or tile surface should be cleaned and prepped before placing a rug. Remove any loose debris or sharp protrusions. A non-slip pad helps stabilize the rug.

Anchor with weights or gripper

Secure your rug against winds and movement with weights on the corners, mesh gripper strips around the border, or double-sided outdoor rug tape.

Hose it off periodically

Rinse the entire rug with a hose once a month or so to prevent dirt buildup and mold. Let it air dry completely before walking on it again.

Clean stains quickly

Blot any spills immediately before they have a chance to set. Pretreat with an outdoor rug cleaner for food, drink or grease stains.

Best Places to Buy Outdoor Rugs

You can find a wide selection of outdoor rugs at these retailers:

Big box stores

Lowe’s, Home Depot, Walmart and Costco carry affordable and mid-range polypropylene, nylon and polyester rugs in common sizes. Inventory varies seasonally.

Online

Websites like RugsUSA.com, Ruggable.com and RugsDirect.com offer the largest assortment of sizes, materials, patterns and prices. Custom sizes are readily available.

Patio and garden stores

At stores like Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, West Elm and your local nursery, you can see and feel rug quality in person. Higher end materials and handmade rugs are more common.

Direct from manufacturers

Brands like Jaipur, Dash and Albert specialize in outdoor rugs. Ordering direct provides the biggest selection of styles and custom sizes.

Secondhand

Search Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, thrift stores and garage sales for quality secondhand outdoor rugs at discounted prices.

Conclusion

Outdoor rugs add beauty, comfort and functionality to patio and deck spaces when selected with your specific needs and climate in mind. Focus on durable, weather-resistant manmade fibers or natural fibers for shady spots. Proper anchoring and regular maintenance will help extend the rug’s lifespan. An outdoor rug allows you to fully enjoy and utilize outdoor living areas.