Rugs aren’t confined to interiors alone; A rug can grace outdoor spaces just as effectively, provided it’s crafted from resilient materials capable of withstanding the rigours of the elements. That said, many rugs are purposefully engineered for versatile usage, blending durability with style to seamlessly transition from indoor living rooms to outside patios.
Constructed with lower pile heights, these rugs offer resilience against outdoor wear and tear, while their diverse colour palettes and intricate designs ensure they remain a chic addition to any setting. Ease of maintenance further solidifies their appeal, rendering them suitable for high-traffic areas.
Planning to enhance your exterior’s appeal with a beautiful outdoor carpet? Here are the answers to some of the most common questions regarding outdoor rugs.
Is There a Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Rugs?
Yes, there are several distinctive characteristics. The differences are primarily in durability, materials and construction. Outdoor carpets are designed to withstand specific environmental conditions, whereas indoor rugs can wear and tear pretty quickly if exposed to weather elements.
An outdoor carpet is made from synthetic materials that are resistant to moisture, mould and mildew. That means that it can withstand exposure to rain, sun and humidity without deteriorating. Indoor rugs, on the other hand, are often made from wool cotton, silk or a blend of synthetic and natural fibres, which may not hold up well to outdoor conditions.
Another major difference between indoor and outdoor rugs is their construction. Those for outdoor use are typically designed with a flat weave or low pile construction. As such, their construction allows the water to drain quickly, without the risk of moisture buildup.
When it comes to indoor options, they are often designed with higher pile heights or intricate patterns which is not suitable for outdoor use because of a potential moisture buildup.
Can Outdoor Rugs Be Used Indoor As Well?
Many rugs are specifically designed for both outdoor and indoor use. These rugs are made from synthetic materials resistant to UV rays, moisture buildup and mildew, while still maintaining a stylish appearance.
These rugs are constructed with lower pile heights which makes them suitable for outdoor use. They come in various colours and many of them feature intricate designs which makes them a stylish choice for any area of your home. They are also very convenient when it comes to maintenance and cleaning, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.
What Material Is Best for Outdoor Rug?
The most common materials used are polypropylene, polyester, nylon, polyethylene or a blend of two or more synthetics. All these fabrics are great for outside use as they are resistant to the elements.
However, the most commonly used material for outdoor rugs is polypropylene, also known as olefin. Polypropylene is known to be a highly durable fabric that is resistant to moisture, mould and mildew. It can also withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight, without losing its colour and vibrancy. It’s also easy to clean.
When choosing a material, to ensure you are making the right decision, it’s important to also consider whether you live in a super dry or rainy area, the intended use of the carpet, and your maintenance preferences. By doing so, you’re making sure that you’re investing in long-lasting performance and style for your outdoor space.
Why Do People Put Rugs Outside?
Many people love to style their outdoor living space and add some character to the area. Rugs are a wonderful way to elevate the overall aesthetic of your patio. You can use them to infuse a little bit of texture and colour to your patio or pool deck, to add visual interest, define the area, and create a cohesive look. Beyond the aesthetic appeal of outdoor carpets, people also use them for their practicality and functionality.
Outdoor carpets offer protection and safety not only to outdoor surfaces but also prevent you from slipping and falling on slippery surfaces like pool decks.
They also provide a comfortable surface for your bare feet, offering warmth and cushioning on hard surfaces. They make outdoor spaces more enjoyable and enhance the overall functionality of the area.
Cleaning and Maintenance: How Do I Properly Care for My Outdoor Rug?
The best thing about outdoor carpets is their low maintenance. With minimal effort, you can preserve their appearance and keep them functional and stylish for many years.
Vacuum your carpet regularly to remove debris, dirt and any pet hair. Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from building up into the fibres, which helps maintain the rug’s appearance.
In case of spills and stains, remove them promptly. You can blot up liquid spills with a clean and absorbent cloth, using a mild soap or detergent. Just make sure to not rub on the stain, as it can spread into the deeper layers of the fibres. Simply blot the stain gently until is completely removed.
And of course, as with anything that we use for a long time, you should be deep cleaning once in a while to remove embedded dirt and stains and refresh the rug’s appearance. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for deep cleaning.
