Outdoor Rugs for Patios: Materials and Maintenance
An outdoor rug can transform your patio, or deck with comfort, style, and a hint of indoors to your space. It can define a seating area, cover up a plain old concrete floor, and be that bright pigment that unifies your whole outdoor area. There are so many options – it may seem overwhelming trying to find the right outdoor rug for your area, so knowing what materials are available and how to maintain them is key.
At Rugs Galore, Melbourne's trusted store of rugs, we believe a great rug can completely change any space. Here is our guide to all the best outdoor rug materials and our maintenance tips to keep your rug looking fresh every season.
Understanding Outdoor Rug Materials
Materials are key in an outdoor rug because they determine durability, feel, and toughness. The best outdoor rugs are made to withstand moisture, sunlight, and heavy foot traffic.
Synthetic Materials: The Star of Outdoor Rugs
- Polypropylene: This is by far the most common and versatile outdoor rug material. Polypropylene is a synthetic fibre that is incredibly durable, waterproof, and doesn’t fade in the sun. It is moisture resistant, resistant to mould, mildew, and stains, and easy to clean.
Natural Fibres: The Environmentally Friendly Option
- Jute and Sisal: These natural fibres offer a nice earthy look. They are strong and durable but will not fare well in a moist environment, as they can develop mould. They are recommended for use in covered outdoor locations, such as a three-season porch or a patio with an overhang.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable and renewable source, which can provide you with a natural-looking rug. The bamboo rug is surprisingly durable and has enough water resistance to be good for semi-covered outdoor areas.
Outdoor Rug Maintenance
Once you have made the decision to buy an outdoor rug and which material is sufficient, then you have only half of the battle. Proper rug maintenance is the key to extending the life of your rug. Use the suggestions below to keep your outdoor rug in the best condition.
How to Clean an Outdoor Rug
- Shake the Dirt Out: The easiest maintenance is to regularly shake your rug out. This takes the excess dirt, dust and leaves that have accumulated out of the rug.
- Hose It Down: To further clean your rug, place the rug on a flat surface and take a hose to it. Make a small amount of soap and water mixture, and use a soft bristle brush to scrub away dirt or stains.
- Rinse thoroughly: after scrubbing the area rugs, rinse them thoroughly with the hose to remove soap residue.
- Let it dry completely: this is the most important step! Using a railing or a sunbeam, hang or lay it out so it dries completely. This will prevent mould and mildew. Never roll up a damp area rug. The Rug must be cleaned on a sunny day and dried on both sides.
Additional Care Tips
- Rotate your rug: Just like indoor rugs, rotating your outdoor rug every few months helps to provide even wear and sun exposure.
- Store in the off-season: If you live in an area that has cold, harsh weather in the winter or rainy seasons, it is best to store your rug in a dry, covered area when the seasons change. Make sure it is totally clean and dry before storing.
- Consider a rug pad: besides providing additional cushion, an outdoor rug pad allows for drainage and circulation of air to prevent moisture from being trapped underneath.
Conclusion
An outdoor rug is more than just decor; it is a functional tool that can give your patio an extra touch to make a comfortable and stylish extension of your living area. As long as you understand the variations in attractions of, for example, durable polypropylene or the softer, more natural fibres, you can make an informed choice to suit your climate and activity.
Keep in mind a little care goes a long way. Regular cleaning, drying out and storing will prolong the life of your rug, allowing it to stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come. Whatever your situation, whether decorating a larger deck or a smaller one, the right outdoor rug can make the area more inviting for you and your guests.
Please visit Rugs Galore in Melbourne or our online store to check out our enormous range to find the rug you like to suit your space and your style.