Differing Materials for Outdoor and Indoor Jute Rugs: While your indoor jute rugs might provide a cozy ambiance, outdoor jute rugs are built tough to withstand the seasons, maintaining their appealing appearance.
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When it comes to adding a touch of style and comfort to your patio, outdoor rugs are a fantastic choice. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living space, but they also provide a functional and practical solution for protecting your deck or patio from the elements. In this article, we explore the best sustainable and durable outdoor rug options, perfect for your patio.
The Power of Recycled Plastic and Polypropylene
The best outdoor rugs offer a sense of quiet luxury and are often made from polymers like polypropylene, mimicking the natural appearance of jute. Two popular materials for sustainable and durable outdoor rugs are recycled plastic fibers like PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and polypropylene.
Rugs made from 100% recycled plastic (PET) offer excellent sustainability, as they are made from recycled plastic bottles. These rugs are naturally fade-resistant, lightweight, easy to clean (can be hosed off), and quick-drying. They are highly resistant to water, stains, and UV rays, making them ideal for patios and decks. Examples include the Fab Habitat Striped Outdoor Rug and the Jaipur Living Revelry Rug.
Polypropylene rugs are another durable synthetic option prized for their resistance to weather, stains, and sun exposure. These rugs are excellent for high-traffic outdoor spaces because they do not easily fade or wear down, and they dry quickly.
Handwoven Polyester: A Softer Feel
For a softer feel underfoot on covered patios, handwoven polyester rugs can be considered, but they may absorb more moisture and be less durable than polypropylene.
Top Picks for Your Patio
Here's a summary of our top picks for sustainable and durable outdoor rugs:
| Material | Sustainability | Durability | Key Features | Best Use | |---------------------------|--------------------------|-------------------------------|------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Recycled PET (recycled plastic) | High (made from recycled plastic bottles) | High (fade-resistant, water- and stain-resistant) | Lightweight, quick-drying, easy to clean | Patios, decks, grassy areas | | Polypropylene | Moderate (synthetic but recyclable) | Very high (weather, stain, fade-resistant) | Low-profile flat-weave, durable in high traffic | Patios, decks, all-weather outdoor | | Handwoven polyester | Lower (synthetic) | Moderate (absorbs moisture) | Softer feel but less durable than polypropylene | Covered patios with moderate sun |
Chic and Boho-Style Rug Options
If you're looking for something a bit more stylish, consider rugs from Anthropologie, offering chic, boho-style rugs with bold geometric patterns and a mix of cotton, polyester, viscose, and natural jute.
For a softer, more natural look, the braided rug comes in colors besides the natural jute-look offering. A power-loomed berber-style rug from Wayfair is available, made of synthetic wool for strength, stain resistance, and minimal shedding.
Classic and Elegant Options
The simplest braided rug option is classic and elegant, while a solid neutral finish outdoor rug from Nordic Nest measures a generous 200 x 290cm, suitable for covering an entire deck or patio. A simple striped border rug with clean lines and borders is popular this year, pairing well with sleek chairs and a teak table for a contemporary look.
Avoiding Natural Jute Outdoors
It's essential to note that natural jute isn't typically recommended for outdoor use due to its susceptibility to water damage. Instead, opt for synthetic alternatives like the ones discussed above.
Machine Washable Rug Options
The checkerboard-inspired rug is made of 100% polyester, making it machine washable. It comes in 13 sizes and ten different colors, earning a 4.5-star rating from over 1000 reviews.
In conclusion, with a wide range of sustainable and durable outdoor rug options available, you can easily find a rug that suits your style, budget, and practical needs. Whether you're looking for a vibrant, boho-style rug or a classic, elegant option, there's a rug out there for you. So, why not upgrade your patio today and enjoy the comfort and style that outdoor rugs bring?
- Incorporating outdoor rugs can add both style and function to your patio's living room, protective against weather and enhancing aesthetics.
- Rugs crafted from recycled plastic fibers like PET and polypropylene are popular choices due to their sustainability and durability.
- Recycled plastic (PET) rugs are fade-resistant, lightweight, easy to clean, and quick-drying, making them ideal for outdoor living spaces.
- Polypropylene rugs, while synthetic, are highly resistant to weather, stains, and sun exposure, thus suitable for high-traffic outdoor areas.
- Artful outdoor rugs with boho-style geometric patterns can be found at Anthropologie, while braided rugs in various colors offer a softer, more natural look.
- When considering a rug for your lifestyle, avoid natural jute in outdoor settings, opting instead for synthetic alternatives like polyester or polypropylene for long-lasting quality.
