How to Clean Your Outdoor Area Rug

What are Outdoor Area Rugs?

Outdoor area rugs are designed to cover the floor, whether you place it directly on a wood deck or a slab of cement. They can enhance the look of the outdoor setting to make it look stylish and inviting.

Outdoor area rugs can be used in a variety of ways. Their large dimensions allow them to cover most of the outdoor space and offer extra padding under your feet. Many people choose to add them under patio tables, which ties all of the furniture together and prevents it from looking like it's floating.

Outdoor area rugs can also be used on the center of a deck, with lounge chairs placed on the corners. Some people even use them to create an outdoor space where kids can play.

The materials on outdoor area rugs are known to be a lot more durable than interior area rugs to ensure they hold up well in all types of weather conditions. They're often constructed from synthetic materials like manufactured polypropylene, polyester, nylon, and acrylic. They're waterproof, which allows them to maintain their thick texture and durability during the colder seasons.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Outdoor Area Rug

There are many different factors to consider when you're choosing the right outdoor area rug for your front or backyard. The first factor to think about is the size of the area rug, which should be large enough to cover most of the ground or deck. Measure the specific space you plan to use for lounging or entertaining. The outdoor rug should be one to two feet from the patio perimeter to ensure it's large enough. If you have a narrow balcony, opt for a runner to prevent it from reaching the edge of the patio. For more information, you can find our comprehensive guide on area rugs.

How to Clean Your Outdoor Area Rug

Cleaning your outdoor area rug requires vacuuming it at least once a week, depending on the season. This will remove bugs, dust, and leaves that can settle into the fibers over time. Once a month, perform a more thorough cleaning by hosing off the rug. Mix water with a small amount of dish soap in a bucket and use a scrub brush to remove dirt and grime that has accumulated. Hang the rug over an awning or allow it to air dry in the grass to prevent mold or mildew from developing underneath.

Another factor to consider is how you want to style your patio or porch. If you want a classic look, opt for an outdoor area rug with a trellis pattern or similar to a striped area rug. If you want a modern look, opt for an area rug with an abstract print that features a few neutral color shades. If you're looking to make the area rug the main focal point, you can select something similar to a floral area rug with a high level of visual appeal. An area rug identical to a geometric area rug will also make a statement and will prove to look dramatic.