Types of Outdoor Rugs

Before buying your new outdoor rug, there are a few things to keep in mind, including size, shape and color. Here are a few things to consider when shopping:

• Size and shape: Be sure to measure the area where you intend to add the 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 with room (or at least the two front legs).
• Colors and design: Outdoor rugs are available in an array of colors and patterns. From geometric to modern and bright to beige, there's a rug for every style. Because your rug will face all the elements, it's important to look for a rug that is resistant to fading. Look for rugs labeled "solution-dyed," which means the actual fibers of the rug were dyed before being woven together. For this reason, synthetic rugs will hold pattern much longer than rugs woven of natural fibers.
• Construction:
  Synthetic rugs will always be machine-made, making them cost effective. Natural fiber rugs are typically hand-woven and a bit more expensive.
• Create separate areas with different rugs: If you have a larger outdoor space, consider using different size rugs to create defined areas. For example, use a runner for the patio walkway and a larger rug for the seating area.

A majority of outdoor rugs are made of synthetic materials. Typically, this means acrylic, nylon, polyester or man-made polypropylene. These types of outdoor rugs are popular due to their durabilty and affordability. Because they are made of non-porous materials, synthetic rugs are resistant to stains, fading, mildew and mold. They are also much easier to clean.

Other benefits include:

• Lightweight
• Inexpensive
• Durable, able to withstand high-traffic and weather elements, season-after-season
• Available in a variety of patterns, colors and sizes
• Easy to clean and care for

Often chosen for their look and their sustainability, natural fiber rugs add comfort underfoot. While they are eco-friendly, these rugs will deterioate faster than synthetic outdoor rugs. Made of either bamboo, jute, hemp, seagrass or sisal, natural fiber outdoor rugs bring an element of luxury to decks and patios, but they are a bit more expensive than other options. Keep in mind that they will fade with elongated sun exposure and will hold on to water, so mildew or mold could occur.

Other features include:

• Biodegradable
• Strong, particularly bamboo rugs, which can last up to 10 years
• Bamboo rugs are hypoallergenic
• Sound-absorbent
• Sisal and seagrass' neutral color is perfect for any outdoor space
• Can serve as a great layering piece under a synthetic rug

The types of outdoor rugs you choose may very well depend on ease of cleaning.

• Synthetic fiber outdoor rugs are popular because they are so easy to clean. In fact, many of these rugs can be washed with dish soap and sprayed with a hose to remove dirt. They are also easy to vacuum and spot clean.
  To dry, simply lay them out in the sunlight.
• Natural fiber rugs will require you to raise the stain, often using baking soda and water, and allowing it to sit overnight. For spills, be sure to spot treat as quickly as possible.
• With either fiber option, you want to shake out the rug or vacuum often to keep it free of dirt pile-ups.
• Never put an outdoor rug in the dryer.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.