What Type of Outdoor Patio Rug Should You Buy?

Benefits of an Outdoor Rug

Generally speaking, indoor and outdoor rugs serve the same purpose: pulling your seating area together into a single, unified space that’s comfortable and inviting. You’ll add indoor comfort beneath your feet and color to your deck, porch, or patio with a rug that will weather the elements. The great thing about rugs is that they’re a removable addition that can be rotated throughout the changing seasons, giving your space a unified look.

Outdoor rugs are perfect for the outdoors due to their durable construction. Many rug styles are designed to withstand wear and tear as well as adverse weather conditions. They’re also a great way to brighten up your space, protect your flooring from furniture scratches, and cushion your feet. Be sure to look for options that are durable yet stylish. It will also be helpful to choose a rug that’s resistant to fading and easy to clean.

Outdoor Rug Materials

Rugs fall into two broad categories: synthetic and natural fibers. Many outdoor rugs are made with durable man-made materials which allow them to easily withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, dirt and prolonged sun exposure. These synthetic materials usually have a more textured surface and tend to stand up better to the elements than natural materials.

Fortunately, our rugs are also very easy to care for, and most can be rinsed with a hose for quick and easy cleaning. Let’s explore a few additional rug materials to help you narrow down your search!

Polypropylene Rugs

Polypropylene’s biggest advantage is that its water and microbial resistant. It doesn’t absorb liquid or stains, lowering the chances of mold, mildew, and stains from occurring. If you want to leave your rug outside year-round, polypropylene will be the best option for you.

Nylon Rugs

Nylon is another resilient fiber. Rugs made from this material are best for high-traffic areas since they’re durable and easy to clean. One downside is that nylon gets hot in the sun. Just be sure not to place the rug in direct sunlight as the material can quite warm.

Cotton Rugs

Although not water-resistant, cotton rugs have a soft surface that won’t feel coarse on your skin if you walk on them. The only downside is that cotton doesn’t fair well with water and humidity. Therefore, you may want to keep your outdoor space covered or store the rug away from the elements.

Natural Fiber Rugs

These types of rugs are often chosen for their style and soft feel. Rugs made of bamboo, jute, and sisal bring a look of luxury to decks and patios. However, the downside to natural fiber rugs is that they don’t last as long as synthetic outdoor rugs. They’re also a bit more expensive than other options.

Finding the Right Size Outdoor Mat

Outdoor rugs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from 3 x 5 ft. outdoor rugs to 9 x 12 ft. outdoor rugs. Selecting the right size outdoor rug depends on the layout of your patio or deck. For example, rugs on the smaller side of the spectrum are ideal for anchoring your patio furniture and adding style to your decor. But, bigger size patios require large rugs to fully cover your patio floors and properly frame your furniture.

A general rule of thumb is to leave at least 18 inches of the floor exposed (or 8 inches for smaller spaces) between the rug and any fixtures, walls or adjoining spaces. This rule mainly applies to backyard spaces that consist of chairs and sofa sectional seating areas. However, if your deck or patio has a dining table and chairs, you’ll want to give yourself 24 inches of padding from all edges of the table. The benefits of this layout will allow you to easily slide in and out of your chair without the possibility of the chair legs scratching the finish on your deck.

A patio dining area should have 24-30 inches of rug sticking out from under the table in all directions, leaving plenty of room for the chairs. The size of the rug should be large enough for you to pull out all the chairs and have the legs remain on the rug. Alternatively, outdoor rugs sitting under a grouping of furniture, such as sofa sectionals and chairs, should be large enough so that the front legs of all pieces of furniture are placed on the rug.

Patio Rug Designs & Patterns

Rugs are decorative home decor essentials that come in a variety of designs and patterns. Fortunately, all of our outdoor rugs range from classic to modern styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect option that suits your personal tastes.

Want a botanical pattern that reflects the plants surrounding your home? How about a rug featuring geometric latticework for a touch of class? Prefer something simple like a solid-colored rug? The right rug style will depend on whether you want to base the rug on the theme of your furnishings or if you want it to be the focal point.

Where is the Best Place to Put an Outdoor Rug?

The best places to put a rug are the areas where they can be stylish and functional. For example, you can place a small outdoor rug by the door to keep dirt from tracking inside, or opt for a large outdoor rug to pull together a seating or dining area on your patio.

As mentioned earlier, rugs come in various designs and patterns. You can place a floral rug on your patio leading up to the garden or in the living room to bring an extra touch of nature indoors. If you’ve got a round patio table, set it atop one of our round patio rugs. Alternatively, pair a big rectangular rug with your outdoor dining set, or add a runner to a passage space. 

Solid and patterned rugs are a basic decor option, making them great options for a deck. If you have an outdoor pool, rugs with a nautical theme go great by the pool and help reduce slipping. You can even find rugs that mimic the look of grass to give a patio or deck a natural look that extends throughout your yard.

How to Clean & Care for Outdoor Patio Rugs

A good rule of thumb is to clean your rug as needed, on a monthly basis, and at the start and end of the season. While cleaning you should also refer to the cleaning recommendations provided by the manufacturer, you can usually clean a dirty rug is by sweeping off any dirt, leaves, and other unwanted items.

It will also help to regularly vacuum and rotate the rug. Since most outdoor rugs are water-resistant, you can wash them down with a garden hose and a mild detergent for stubborn stains. Be sure to scrub the stain with a soft brush and thoroughly rinse it off with water. Hang the rugs out to completely dry before placing them back on the ground.

When it comes to storage, those living in a cold climate can store their rugs during snowy or icy months. It’s best to keep it in a dry, indoor space. However, you can also keep it rolled up and covered in plastic under your deck or in the garage.

For even more information on how to clean and take care of all sorts of rugs, check out our Area Rug Cleaning Guide!

Additional Decorating Ideas for Your Deck or Patio

Add Lights to Your Outdoor Space

Outdoor lights come in various shapes, sizes and designs, meaning there’s sure to be a style of light that suits your space and gives off the perfect amount of illumination. Look for soft lighting elements such as string lights that you can wrap around railings and banisters. These twinkling lights will be a gorgeous display any time of the year. Alternatively, outdoor candles and lanterns will give your yard a nice glow. From mounted wall lights to walkway lights, you’ll have a charming display that will brighten your space with ease.

Add Pillows to Chairs and Loveseats

Outdoor throw pillows are an excellent way to give your seating a fresh look. Oversized pillows can also hide any furniture stains or nicks. Just make sure that you keep them all in the same shade or pattern to really tie the decor together. Whether you add pillows to outdoor chairs or provide them for guests who prefer to lounge along the edge of the deck, they’ll help you reiterate your deck’s decorating scheme.

Essential Deck & Patio Furniture for Your Outdoor Oasis

Once you have any idea of what types of outdoor patio rugs will work for your outdoor space, it’s time to turn your attention to your patio furniture options. Add a hint of sophistication to your home’s outdoor aesthetic with patio seating and tables from some of our top brands!

There are several factors to consider such as how big your outdoor space is as well as how many people you’ll regularly host in this area. Additionally, the amount of space you have will determine how big the patio furniture can be. When you look to Kohl’s for your patio furniture needs, you’re sure to find the right set or individual piece no matter what you’re looking for.

Beat the harsh weather when you choose from a wide assortment of durable patio chairs, patio tables, and patio furniture sets that stand up to the elements. You’ll find patio furniture that’s lightweight and built to last and that will enhance the look and feel of your home for years to come.

Aside from adding patio furniture to your entertaining space, be sure to incorporate things like outdoor area rugs, seat cushions, protective covers, and more. Create the ideal gathering space for daytime or nighttime get-togethers by incorporating equally functional add-ons like serving carts, wine cabinets and bar and stool sets. Complete the look of your outdoor space with accent items like end tables and ottomans designed to compliment your personal style!

With an outdoor space complete with these must-haves, your friends and family will love to gather together and enjoy each other’s company from the comfort of your deck or patio! You’ll also find everything you need to enhance your home’s interior space when you shop Kohl’s today!