Choose the Right Size Outdoor Rug for Your Porch
Outdoor Rug Sizes
When you’re choosing an outdoor rug for your porch or patio, it’s important to get the right size. Ideally, your furniture should sit comfortably on the indoor/outdoor rug. But at minimum, the front legs of all your furniture should rest on top of the rug. When in doubt, it’s always better to invest in a larger size rug. It makes the space feel bigger. The most common rug sizes are:
- 2-foot-by-3-foot outdoor rugs
- 5-foot-by-8-foot outdoor rugs
- 8-foot-by-10-foot outdoor rugs
- 9-foot-by-12-foot outdoor rugs
- 10-foot-by-14-foot outdoor rugs
- 10-foot runner outdoor rugs or larger
Outdoor Rug Shapes
Outdoor rugs come in all shapes, colors and sizes. If you need a large outdoor area rug for a conversation or dining set, then outdoor area rugs in a rectangular shape are the most popular. Outdoor runners are a good choice if you have a long, narrow area. Round and square shapes outdoor carpets are ideal for smaller spaces and bistro sets. Oval outdoor rugs are also available.
Bring outdoors rugs inside your home. They’re stain-resistant, easy to clean and great for homes with kids and pets.
Outdoor Rug Materials
Outdoor rugs come in a variety of materials. Here are some of the most popular types and the benefits of each.
Polypropylene Outdoor Rugs
Polypropylene is the most popular material on the market for outdoor rugs. You can find them in high, medium or low pile or a combination. Since these patio rugs are resistant to stains, mold, mildew and chlorine, they’re great indoor/outdoor rugs. If the outdoor rug gets dirty, simply spray it off with a hose.
Polyester Outdoor Rugs
You can use these patio rugs indoors or outside. Polyester outdoor rugs withstand the sun, heavy foot traffic and rain. Polyester outdoor rugs are made from a high-quality, water-resistant polyester material that stands up to ultraviolet (UV) rays, fading and running. They don’t shed, and you can spot clean them with a mild detergent or carpet cleaner.
Natural Fiber Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs in seagrass, jute or sisal are made of natural fibers and provide texture and warmth to a space. It’s recommended to keep these types of outdoor rugs in covered porches or patios because fading can occur with prolonged sun exposure. Spot clean natural-fiber outdoor rugs with a mild detergent.
Outdoor Rug Styles and Features
Whether your style is modern, transitional or traditional, there are patio rugs to suit your space.
Outdoor Rug Styles
Outdoor rugs come in a multitude of colors and designs. Depending on your aesthetic, you’ll find patio rug styles ranging from coastal and bohemian to midcentury modern and farmhouse cottage. If you prefer a global look or Moroccan feel, there are beautiful outdoor rugs with ikat, trellis and geometric patterns.
Outdoor Rug Features
Homeowners have different needs for their homes. If your rug location is exposed to a lot of rain or water, opt for a waterproof outdoor rug. For rugs that are subject to long-term sun exposure, look for outdoor rugs that have UV protection and are fade-resistant. Purchase an outdoor rug that’s stain-resistant if it’s located in an area where it could get dirty easily.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Outdoor Rug
To maintain an outdoor rug, you’ll need to know how to take care of it when it gets dirty.
Simply spraying it with a garden hose is the most popular way to clean an outdoor rug. If that’s the method that you prefer, look for outdoor rugs made of polypropylene.
You should spot clean polyester and natural fiber outdoor rugs, such as seagrass, jute or sisal, with mild detergent.
Some outdoor rugs need to be hand-washed, while other outdoor rugs can be machine-washed or require professional dry cleaning. Read the directions carefully before purchasing to ensure you get an outdoor rug that’s suited to your lifestyle.