Deciding on a best rug for a deck, patio or just an outdoor space can be exciting and overwhelming on the same time. There are various things to keep in mind while picking out an outdoor rug. When you are choosing an outdoor rug make sure to pick out an all-weather rug which can withstand the harsh weather conditions as well and has easy maintenance properties. There are various qualities which determine whether an outdoor rug is best for you, read on to know how to decide best outdoor rugs for your patio or porch.
1. Maintenance
There is absolutely no way by which you can prevent accidents or spills from happening, but you can always clean up those spills quickly to avoid stains. The maintenance of an outdoor material depends on its material. Read to know the tips and tricks of cleaning an outdoor rug:-
- Remove dirt and dust by vacuuming regularly.
- Occasionally try sweeping under the rug to prevent damage that can be caused by layering of dust and dirt underneath.
- You can also hose your rug down by placing it on a railing; in case you have a water resistant rug.
- To remove stains, use a brush to scrub the area with a mixture of mild soap and water. Do not use soap that has bleach in it.
- Dry the rug on both sides before putting it back in its place, this helps in preventing mildew.
- When experiencing extreme weather conditions, just roll your rug and put it in storage area.
2. Material
Synthetic Material is best for outdoor rugs as its affordable, light, and dries quickly. These rugs may not be extra plush so you won’t be able to sink your toes into them; for most parts outdoor rugs are flat weaved. But if you are looking to have a cozy, soft feel out on your deck or patio, go for polypropylene rugs, as they are strong and comfortable both and possess a texture which mimics that of a wool. Outdoor rugs can develop molds if exposed to excess moisture, so go for polypropylene rugs. If you want more natural material for your outdoor rugs, such as- jute or seagrass rugs; you might want to reconsider your decision as they tend to develop mildews and fade due to excess exposure to sunlight. Polyester is fade-resistant, stain-resistant material and has fire retardant property hence Polyester rugs can thrive in outdoor conditions.
3. Size
When choosing an outdoor rug, deciding the appropriate size of your rug is a crucial step. It’s of utmost importance to pick a rug with dimensions that will accentuate your outdoor space but at the same time not over power it. For furniture such as a small table or benches, a circular rug will work amicably. If you want to tie together your outdoor furniture, a rectangular rug will work well. Use smaller sized rugs or doormats for areas such as entryways or footsteps of your house, because it fits perfectly.
4. Style
Choosing a rug that provides a sense of fashion and functionality is a must for outdoor spaces. You can bring a pop of color by matching your outdoor rug with the décor items such as hammock or cushions, the plants or the lights setting. For an ultra modern finish try a striped rug in monochromatic tones which will accentuate your outdoor décor. For outdoor setting with natural-wood furniture and décor, a rug with solid colors such as red or orange will create a warm yet welcoming aura.
5. Backing
You may consider a non-slip component for your outdoor rug, depending on the type of surface it’s placed on. If you want your rug to be multi-purpose and wish to place it indoors sometime throughout the year, non slip backing fabricated from latex can be good for high traffic areas such as foyers. Although latex backing is not suitable for hardwood floors as they can accumulate moisture, suppress ventilation while causing damage to the finish. For hardwood, use non-latex backing made from jute, cotton, sisal or wool as they allow your rug to breathe and get proper ventilation for wood beneath.