7 tips for buying outdoor rugs

When buying outdoor rugs, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure that the rug is durable, sturdy and long-lasting. Materials such as polypropylene and synthetic fibers are best for outdoor use because they can withstand the elements and are easy to clean.

Jute rugs and Nopfteppiche are also robust, but they are sensitive to water and soap. Make sure you use a pad to prevent contamination and to protect the rug from mold and water. With the right tips, you can choose the perfect outdoor rug that will last for years on your patio, balcony or outdoors.

A synthetic rug, made of tough and durable materials, is a good choice as it can usually be easily cleaned with soap and water. These tips will help you choose an outdoor rug that will give you years of comfort and satisfaction.


Tips before you buy

1. Suitable for outdoor use?

Regular cotton rugs are not designed for outdoor use. They would not withstand the elements, and would absorb water and be ruined in no time at all. Outdoor rugs, on the other hand, are durable and designed specifically for outdoor use. When buying, pay close attention to the material used and make sure that the rug is suitable for use on a terrace or balcony.

2. The right material

Outdoor rugs are made of synthetic plastic fibers, which are either labeled as polypropylene or polyamide when purchased. These fabrics are weather resistant and can be used outdoors without any problems. The material is also UV-repellent, as the rug can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight. This should also be taken into account when choosing. It is also water-repellent thanks to the knobs and grooves on the underside of the rug. When buying, you should therefore make sure that the material is also made of 100% plastic fibers.

3. Choose Dithered & Pattern instead of Solid Colors


When people hear the word “outdoor rug,” they probably think of the typical bright green lawn rug that you may already know from other people's gardens. These are designed to resemble a meadow and are therefore as trendy as ever. However, there are now a number of other rugs to choose from. Most are available in natural colors such as green, brown, gray, or yellow. However, there are now also outdoor rugs that feature the motifs of normal indoor rugs.

When buying, you should make sure that you buy the right variant.

With a well-chosen rug, for example, you can also conceal damage to decking. If it has already been damaged but is not worth renovating, a beautiful-looking outdoor rug can help. The same applies to a balcony, which can be transformed into a cozy oasis of well-being with a rug.

4. Find the right fit and size

When laying rugs, it always depends on what they are needed for. Do you just want to use it as a base for seating or directly for the entire terrace or balcony? As with normal rugs, there is a choice between standard sizes and adjustable rugs. If the rug is to be cut to size, the terrace must be measured thoroughly beforehand. Individual pieces can then be purchased either in a hardware store or online. With robust scissors or cutter knives, they can then be cut to the desired size by hand.

Installing the rug is not difficult and can be done in just a few steps. Once cut to size, the rug can simply be laid on the terrace or balcony. The material is not important here, because the nubs on the bottom provide a little space for water to drain off. When cutting, care should be taken to ensure that there are no edges and that the rug does not slip.

5. Pay attention to the prices

In general, outdoor rugs are inexpensive because the synthetic plastic fibers are cheap to produce. The prices here cannot be compared with some of the luxurious indoor rugs and are in the double-digit range even for large areas of two to three meters. When cutting, this is calculated per square meter. Processing, water and UV protection often determine the price. You can either save or invest money here, depending on the purpose for which the rug is to be used.

6. Care of outdoor rugs

Outdoor rugs are easy to clean thanks to their robust fibers. Rain cleans them naturally, but dirt can still accumulate from time to time. The rugs can be roughly swept and thus freed from dirt. You should do this regularly so that the particles do not get stuck deeper in the material. In addition, the rug should be vacuumed every few weeks, which works the same as for normal rugs. If the dirt is heavier, soap and water can be used to remove it.

Too much sunlight can cause the rug to fade, which can cause major problems. There is nothing you can do about this except change the rug.

One advantage of outdoor rugs, however, is that they do not get moldy and are generally hard-wearing. If there is a good water-repellent option and the rug is cared for regularly, it will last for many years.

7. Suitable for children and animals

Outdoor rugs are perfect for children and animals and are great for creating a play area. They even help to prevent problems such as decking that is too hot in summer, providing a pleasant feel and not heating up too much. Outdoor rugs are also fine for people walking barefoot, as the rugs are very comfortable. They can also eliminate the risk of slipping if installed near pools or on smooth tiles.

Incidentally, there are also rugs that can be used both indoors and outdoors. For children, animals or allergy sufferers, this could even be worthwhile and brings the advantages of synthetic material into the home.

Conclusion

Outdoor rugs can be worthwhile for balconies or terraces to make them more relaxed. The synthetic material ensures that the rug is resistant to weather conditions. In addition, there is now a wide selection of rugs of this type, many of which are no longer limited to the green artificial grass look. In terms of price, outdoor rugs are a good investment and can be installed inexpensively.

FAQS:

How big should an outdoor rug be?

Outdoor rugs are a great way to beautify your balcony or patio and make it a cozy place for you and your family to enjoy. There are a variety of materials and sizes you can choose from to make your outdoor space a welcoming place. 4' x 6' and smaller rugs are usually suitable for smaller areas such as a patio or balcony, while larger rugs such as 9' x 12' and 10' x 14', 200x300, are sufficient to cover all your furniture. You can also choose a rug the size of a 6-seater or 8-seater dining table. Make sure that the rug is made of sturdy materials such as polypropylene, polyester or natural fibers that are durable and stain-resistant.

What are the best outdoor rugs for the balcony and terrace?

When choosing an outdoor rug, you should pay attention to the materials used. Nylon and polypropylene, for example, are particularly suitable for outdoor use. Outdoor rugs are made from synthetic fibers such as polypropylene, olefin or polyester. To keep your outdoor rug in good condition for a long time, you should clean it regularly. Avoid using aggressive cleaning agents; instead, use a mild detergent and a soft brush to brush the rug and then rinse thoroughly with water. If you use the rug outside on a balcony or terrace, you should make sure that it can withstand the weather conditions. A polypropylene outdoor rug is a durable and dirt-resistant floor covering that is also well suited for outdoor use. Outdoor rugs are available in different colors, shapes and sizes and add a stylish element to your seating area in the garden or generally in the open air. You can place an outdoor rug under a sun lounger, a garden table or other furniture to enhance a cozy atmosphere in the dining area or on a concrete slab. Avoid using outdoor rugs made of natural fibers, as these have a short lifespan. rugs made of synthetic fibers are also a good choice because they are UV-resistant and can withstand small amounts of dirt. For cleaning, it is best to use a vacuum cleaner or a garden hose. With these tips and tricks, you can be sure that your outdoor rug will stay beautiful for a long time.

How do you clean outdoor rugs?

The best outdoor rugs for your balcony or patio are easy to care for, high-quality, and durable. They should be made of materials like polypropylene or polyester to withstand various weather conditions.

Are outdoor rugs resistant to mold?

Outdoor rugs can simply be brushed off with a soft brush and then thoroughly rinsed with water. A mild detergent can be used for tougher stains.

Can outdoor rugs be used in the garden and generally outdoors?

Yes, most outdoor rugs are mildew resistant. They are specially designed for outdoor use and absorb hardly any moisture, which helps to prevent mold growth.