Giving your outdoor space a makeover is just as fun as decorating inside your home. And if there's one thing that can take your patio to the next level, it's an outdoor rug.
Outdoor rugs are an easy addition to creating an outdoor oasis, whether you live in a place that's patio-friendly all year long or the weather's just starting to warm up. Not only will this piece of decor help define your veranda, but it can also add a fun pop of color or comforting neutral, making it a bit more inviting.
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The Best Outdoor Rugs
From vibrant patterns to classic designs, here are the best outdoor rugs you can buy online.
Introduce florals to your space with this versatile indoor and outdoor rug from The Home Depot. Made from durable polypropylene, it's designed for high-traffic areas and is stain resistant, fade resistant, and water resistant.
Like the name indicates, this outdoor rug would look stunning poolside or on your patio. Made from soft, yet heavy duty, polyester in a Fair Trade Certified facility, it's the perfect way to elevate your outdoor space. However, the brand recommends pairing this pick with a rug pad to make it extra secure.
Welcome nothing but warm, bohemian vibes to your patio with this round, braided rug. And since it's made from polypropylene, it's weather resistant and can be hosed off with water for an easy clean.
Go gold with this burnt orange geometric pattern. Ideal for high-traffic areas — whether it's your living room or backyard — it's made from recycled plastic and is mildew resistant and UV resistant.
If there's anything better than an indoor and outdoor rug, it's one that's machine washable, too. Ruggable checks all the boxes and has designs for any home decor style you're into. Not only is this earthy and abstract, desert-chic design is an eye-catcher, but it's also fade, mold, and mildew resistant.
This darker, ombre outdoor area rug from Amazon can blend in with any outdoor space. Available in a range of color options (if you need something more vibrant), it's also reversible, waterproof, and made from recycled plastic.
This top-rated, Moroccan-style rug from Wayfair adds a subtle pop of color to your indoor or outdoor space. Although its design looks worn and weathered, it's made for areas with high foot traffic.
Opt for a classic medallion rug for your outdoor patio, like this pick from Walmart. Ideal for indoor and outdoor use, it's an affordable way to make any seating area cozier.
Tie your patio together with this leafy, botanical area rug that also happens to be stain and water resistant.
Crafted from durable polypropylene, this nuLOOM rug is low-maintenance and can withstand everything from tough weather to pets. With a low pile and braided weave design, it's a functional and stylish option that can complement any type of patio furniture.
Want a rug that looks good and is easy to clean? This low pile Safavieh rug has a beautiful design and can be rinsed off with a garden hose for stress-free cleaning. Plus, it's stain, weather, and UV resistant.
This geometric patterned rug is an investment worth making. It's woven with 100% recycled polyester fibers from plastic bottles that's made to last and keep its rich color over time.
A striking black and white patterned rug instantly catches the eye and gives your space a modern vibe, too. And the best part? This handsome number is also reversible.
Handwoven to create a gorgeous, intricate design, this rug works just as well in your backyard as it will in your living room, dining room, or bedroom.
Go for a retro look with this geometric pattern, made with stain and weather resistant polypropylene and a flatweave technique.
What to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Rug
Shopping for an outdoor rug requires some planning, and according to Jennifer Poole, merchant of area rugs and mats at The Home Depot, the top things to keep in mind are size, shape, color, design, and construction.
- Size and shape: First things first, measure the area you're planning on putting your outdoor rug. "If you plan to place the rug under an outdoor sofa or table, we recommend purchasing a rug large enough that all furniture legs rest on top of the rug, or at least two furniture legs rest on top with additional space," Poole says.
- Colors and design: With so many options out there, consider the style you want to go for. But Poole recommends looking out for designs that will actually last since outdoor rugs are prone to wear and tear from natural elements. "We advise looking for a rug that is resistant to fading," Poole says. "Look for rugs labeled 'solution-dyed,' meaning the fibers are dyed before woven together. This process allows synthetic rugs to hold patterns much longer than rugs woven from natural fibers."
- Construction: How your rug is made can play a big role in how long it can hold up outdoors. According to Poole, synthetic rugs that are machine-made are typically more cost effective and durable. On the other hand, natural fiber rugs that are handwoven are usually more expensive, delicate, and less durable.
Tip
If you have a larger outdoor space, Poole suggests mixing different size rugs to define different areas, like using a runner for the patio walkway and an area rug for around seating.
What Is the Best Material for Outdoor Rugs?
Not all outdoor rugs are created equal. According to Poole, most outdoor rugs are made of synthetic materials, including acrylic, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene.
"Rugs woven from these materials are popular because they are durable and affordable," Poole tells Hunker. "These materials are also non-porous, meaning substances are less transferable through the materials and it absorbs and releases moisture readily." Plus, they're typically easier to clean and resistant to stains, fading, mold, and mildew.
There are also outdoor rugs made from natural materials, such as bamboo, jute, hemp, seagrass, and sisal. If you're willing to spend more, natural fiber rugs are more eco-friendly, and "combine comfort, design, and sustainability," according to Poole.
However, they're not as durable as synthetic rugs. "Outside elements are harsh on natural fibers as they fade due to sun exposure and hold water, making them susceptible to mold and mildew," Poole explains. So, if you want to use a natural fiber rug, it'll require extra care, including bringing it in when not in use or during inclement weather and doing more frequent cleanings.
