The Benefits of Outdoor Rugs

There are more benefits of outdoor rugs than their name makes obvious. For instance, did you know that many outdoor rugs are designed to resist fading, even when placed in direct sunlight? They can also naturally repel water, snow, and mud, making them perfect for improving the safety of high-traffic indoor-outdoor areas like your patio, entryway, or garage.

When you start to consider the many benefits of outdoor rugs in their full context, you’ll find that they have even more uses than you may have given them credit for - and some of these uses may be just what you need.

This is everything you should know about outdoor rugs, including what they’re made of, how to use and care for them, and why they may be perfect for your home’s outdoor spaces.

What are indoor-outdoor rugs made of?

Sisal’s indoor-outdoor rugs are made of one of two different kinds of synthetic fiber:

•  Polypropylene (also known as olefin) is a synthetic fiber designed to replicate the appearance and softness of sisal, but unlike sisal, it doesn’t absorb water. Polypropylene is very strong and durable, making it a great option for outdoor use.
   
• Polysilk is a synthetic fiber designed to replicate the feel of natural wool. Like polypropylene, it is non-absorbent, hypoallergenic, mold and mildew-resistant, and UV-protected against sun fading.

What are the benefits of outdoor rugs? 

Outdoor rugs truly live up to their name—they’re made to be used outdoors. Outdoor rugs offer quite a few benefits over indoor rugs: they are extremely durable, surprisingly soft, and available in a variety of colors and styles. 

Durable and practical

Because an outdoor rug’s synthetic fibers are made to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, from scorching sun to sudden rain showers, these rugs are crafted to be durable and practical. They can heartily withstand any amount of foot traffic, even if those feet are wearing dirty shoes or boots.

Outdoor rugs do not absorb water and capably resist mold and mildew, even when you leave them outside for extended periods. Synthetic fibers used to create indoor-outdoor rugs are even highly fade resistant to boot, so your outdoor rugs are sure to last and stay looking great for years to come.

Easy to clean

Both polypropylene and polysilk naturally repel water, making them very easy to clean. All you have to do is gently hose them down with water from your outdoor hose then scrub them down with a mild soap. If you hang them up in the sun, outdoor rugs will dry quickly without fading.

Surprisingly soft

Modern outdoor rugs made from plush synthetic fibers offer exceptional comfort underfoot, inviting bare feet and creating a cozy atmosphere. This is especially appreciated when hosting parties on hard concrete patios or wooden decks, as it makes your outdoor space more enjoyable for everyone. And that includes your pets! Your furry friends will thank you for the added cushioning for their sensitive paws.

Lots of variety

Whether you want to craft an elegant patio terrace or a wild and whimsical outdoor party space, outdoor rugs are up to the task. 

Rugs made from polypropylene are specially designed to look like natural fiber rugs, like our tan, natural, and beige outdoor rugs, so you can add an understated rug that evokes the texture of sisal to your patio without worrying about rain or direct sunlight. 

But an outdoor rug’s synthetic fibers are also able to be dyed in a variety of colors, so you can add some bright touches and charming patterns as your heart desires. 

Why you might need an outdoor rug

Outdoor rugs are certainly nice to have around, and they offer quite a few practical benefits as well. They are exceptional at helping define your outdoor spaces, creating a safer environment, and protecting your outdoor flooring from damage.  

Define areas

Outdoor rugs can help you transform our outdoor spaces by serving as functional design elements that define and delineate various areas. By strategically placing an outdoor area rug, you can visually separate a dining area from a lounge space or demarcate a cozy reading nook on your deck, for example. You could place outdoor patio rugs en route to your front door to guide visitors inside in an eye-catching and pleasing way.

Outdoor area rugs add a sense of order and organization to your outdoor layout and can contribute to a more harmonious aesthetic. The end result is a more inviting and well-coordinated atmosphere. Try coordinating your rugs with outdoor decor to elevate your aesthetic to the next level.

Safer spaces

Outdoor rugs are woven from synthetic fibers that provide traction. This is especially helpful in reducing the risk of slips and falls in high traffic areas prone to wet conditions, such as around your pool or even simply on your outdoor patio after a rainstorm. 

They can also be used to create a more stable and level surface. Uneven or rough outdoor flooring can pose tripping hazards, but by adding an outdoor rug, you provide a smoother and more consistent surface, minimizing the risk of trips and stumbles. This is especially beneficial in spaces with natural surfaces like stone or concrete. And if someone does happen to trip, the rug will help soften their fall. 

Added protection 

Outdoor rugs do more than just protect your feet from your patio. They also protect the patio itself! Outdoor surfaces like decks, patios, and porches are often made of materials such as wood, concrete, or stone, which can be prone to scratches from furniture and other abrasive objects. Placing an outdoor rug creates a barrier that prevents direct contact and reduces the risk of unsightly scratches and scuffs, making them a great way to protect flooring long-term.

They also provide a protective layer against UV rays and weather-related wear. This minimizes the need for costly repairs or replacements over time, making outdoor rugs a practical and cost-effective investment in the long-term maintenance of your outdoor living space. If you have any outdoor carpet, placing an outdoor rug over it is a good way to provide that carpet with an extra layer of water resistant protection.

Can I use an outdoor rug inside?

Yes! All the benefits of outdoor rugs make them an excellent alternative to indoor rugs in places in your home where your rug might encounter humidity in the form of water or spills, or anywhere where you need a tough rug that can hold up under heavy foot traffic.

Indoor-outdoor rugs can be an excellent choice for kitchens, dining rooms, entryways, hallways, bathrooms, basements, attics, and more.

Tips for maintaining outdoor rugs

Outdoor rugs are especially easy to clean and maintain. Here are some rug care tips for keeping your outdoor rug looking its best. 

• Shake it out. Give your rug a good shake weekly to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris. This quick and easy step can prevent build-up and keep your rug looking fresh.
• Sweep or vacuum. For a more thorough clean, use a broom or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove fine dirt particles. Remember to flip the rug over and clean both sides!
• Treat spills immediately. Outdoor rugs are stain resistant, but only to a point. The longer a liquid sits on the surface of your outdoor rug, the greater the chance it will stain the fibers. Blotting up any liquids you notice on your outdoor rug with a clean absorbent cloth as soon as you notice them is always a good idea. For tougher stains, use a mild dish soap solution or a carpet cleaner specifically designed for outdoor rugs. Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the rug first.
• Hose it down. Most outdoor rugs can be hosed down to remove dirt and stains. Start with gentle pressure and work your way up if needed. Be sure to let the rug dry completely before using it again.
• Seasonal deep clean. At the end of the season, give your rug a more thorough cleaning. Mix a solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water, and use a soft brush to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly and allow the rug to dry completely before storing it.

Outdoor rug “don’ts”

Though outdoor rugs are quite durable and weather-resistant, that doesn’t make them completely impervious to damage. If you want your outdoor rugs to last as long as possible, do not:

• Leave moisture on your rug for extended periods: Even water resistant outdoor rugs may stain over time if you let moisture sit on them for too long. Sweep or blot up liquids on your rug as soon as you notice them.
• Leave messy shoes on your rug: You can walk over your indoor-outdoor rugs in your outdoor shoes, but you shouldn’t leave those shoes sitting on the rug indefinitely.
• Let debris accumulate: Dirt, dust, pebbles, and other debris will pull the woven fibers of your rug apart over time, weakening it. Periodically shake out your outdoor rug to get rid of this debris, especially if your rug sees a considerable amount of foot traffic.
• Set it and forget it: Ultimately, though your outdoor rug will be quite tough and low-maintenance, it will not be no maintenance. Periodically clean and care for your outdoor rugs to keep them in good condition.