Outdoor rugs

What are outdoor rugs made of and how do they work?

Simply put, outdoor rugs are rugs, mats or carpets made for outdoor use. They are made in materials that can withstand wear and tear from rain, snow and dirt – and way more so than most indoor textiles.

An outdoor carpet is normally made of densely flatwoven polypropylene, sometimes with mixed in synthetic latex. These materials create a rug that is easily cleaned and durable – making it last a long time. 

Adding an outdoor rug to your outside space is a great way to make your patio, balcony or garden feel more homely. You get a cosy surface for bare feet, you add some colour to your décor, and you won’t have to worry about it getting ruined if you leave it outside.  

How to clean and care for outdoor rugs?

The easiest way to clean a dirty outdoor rug is by just wiping it down with a damp cloth. This is a good daily care routine. Also, make sure to vacuum and rotate the rug regularly. Always use the standard floorhead when vacuuming the rug, and never the rotating brush.

If your rug has amassed a lot of dirt and needs a proper cleaning, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Since outdoor rugs are water resistant, you can hose it down with a garden hose and then hang it to dry. 

For stubborn stains, you can use a mild detergent. Scrub the stain with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with water. Let the rug dry completely before use.

Other laundry instructions include:

• Wash by hand, max 40°C.
• Do not bleach.
• Do not tumble dry.
• Do not iron.
• Do not dryclean.

If your rug is very dirty and the steps above don’t do the trick, you can leave it to professionals for carpet cleaning. To make the rug last as long as possible, store it inside when not in use.

Are outdoor rugs waterproof? 

Outdoor rugs are not often waterproof. But they are water resistant. Simply put, they absorb less water than most indoor rugs, and they dry a lot quicker after getting wet. Thanks to these characteristics outdoor rugs can be left outside and stay outside even in the rain. 

But they are not indestructible. If you know that the weather is turning worse, it’s a good idea to take the rug inside. This way, you’ll keep your rug looking fresh for longer.

If your outdoor rug does get soaked, make sure to hang it up to dry. This helps protect the rug from mould and mildew. 

Can outdoor rugs be used indoors?

Outdoor rugs are made to be used outside, but that doesn’t mean they have to be. They can absolutely be used indoors, and they can be very useful in there. For example, an outdoor rug is a great choice for your kitchen, where water splashes and food crumbs are an everyday challenge for most rugs. 

Will outdoor rugs damage a concrete or a wood deck?

An outdoor rug will not damage your deck. Since it’s made to be kept outside, there’s no risk to your wood or concrete patio. Its colours will not stain, it won’t melt in the sun and it won’t trap water that will rot your boards.  

Your rug will, however, protect the deck surface where it’s placed. So, while rain, snow, dirt and sun wears on the rest of your deck, surface underneath the rug can have a cleaner colour. 

Also, note that an outdoor rug can be quite slippery in its texture. So, to keep it in place, a rug underlay with anti-slip can be necessary.