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From “fade-resistant” to “weatherproof,” outdoor rugs come with a host of desirable characteristics. So which ones are worth paying attention to and which tags are simply marketing terms?
“No rug is weatherproof, but a rug can use UV-treated polypropylene yarns to resist fading,” says Carmen Barbee, merchandise buyer for Ballard Designs and a board member of the International Textile Alliance.
Below, you’ll find out more about the most common outdoor rug materials.
Synthetics
For outdoors, Barbee recommends polypropylene, also called olefin. It’s composed of plastic and commonly used in the production of sportswear, rope, and even straws. It’s known for breathability and moisture wicking. Polypropylene rugs are also fade-resistant and stain-resistant, which means they can survive a significant amount of spills, splashes, and even Mother Nature.
Alternate synthetics include nylon, acrylic, and polyester, but their durability can vary. In general, though, these materials tend to be more resilient than 100 percent natural fibers. However, synthetic rugs often contain natural fibers, such as cotton or jute, which can be a home to fungi and bacteria. (You’d be able to identify this if you smell strong odors or see dark shadows on the underside of the rug.) So, in theory, synthetics can be mildew or water-resistant on the outside, but the inner layers may not be.
All-Natural Fibers
It may be tempting to outfit an outdoor space with a natural fiber rug but it can often do more damage than good. Plant-based fibers such as sisal, jute, and seagrass are often depicted in catalogs and ads as outdoor staples. Seagrass is the softest of the bunch; sisal and jute are typically used for a braided or open weave style to promote airflow and evaporation, Wagner says. But they are often created with either outer fabric borders, an added glue-based backing, or a rubber backing glued on, which will all capture and hold moisture. If you have your mind set on buying a natural fiber rug, remember to regularly dry it out by hanging it in the sun to promote air circulation.