Can Outdoor Rugs Be Left in the Rain?

 

Outdoor living spaces like patios, decks, and balconies, have become extensions of our interiors. And, just as we decorate our interiors to meticulous detail, we’ve taken to dressing up these outside areas as well. One of the top choices for this transformation? The humble outdoor rug.

But with the unpredictability of the UK weather, there lies one burning question: can outdoor rugs be left in the rain?

Delve in and find out as we guide you through the ins and outs of outdoor rug care.

Unravelling the Outdoor Rug Myth

Not every rug labelled "outdoor" is truly ready for wet weather, because not every outdoor rug is crafted equally.

True outdoor rugs are designed with materials that resist UV rays, mould, and mildew. They typically have a different weave, allowing for quicker drying and minimising moisture retention. It’s materials and construction that determine whether or not a rug is an outdoor rug, not just a label saying it’s so.

Consider, for instance, the difference in weave between this Beach Vai Green Cream rug:

And this Jute Loop Natural rug:

Why Materials Matter

Different materials offer varying degrees of resistance to the elements, and understanding these can guide you to make informed choices.

Synthetic Fibres: Polypropylene

Leading the pack in outdoor resilience are synthetic fibres like polypropylene. Celebrated for its weather-resistant properties, polypropylene is adept at shrugging off rain showers and sun rays alike. Its non-porous nature ensures it dries quickly, reducing the risk of mould and mildew formation.

This Cozumel (Outdoor) CZM05 Dark Grey rug is made entirely from polypropylene:

Natural Fibres: Beauty with Caution

Rugs made from natural materials such as jute or sisal are undeniably charming, weaving an organic aesthetic into outdoor spaces. However, they don't share the same weatherproof characteristics as their synthetic counterparts.

When exposed to prolonged moisture, these fibres can absorb water, leading to longer drying times and increased susceptibility to mould and wear. As such, you should always remember to bring them indoors when you’re done using them for your outdoor relaxation or get-together.

The Bazaar Jute 24875 Natural rug is a fantastic example of a rug you can bring out to impress friends, but will need to go back in the house once your barbecue has finished:

UV Protection and Mildew Resistance

A rug's ability to resist fading under the sun or ward off mildew isn't purely down to its base material. Many outdoor rugs are treated with special UV protectants to retain their vibrant colours.

Mildew resistance, on the other hand, is a byproduct of both material choice and specialised treatments. These added layers are important for ensuring your rug remains vibrant and fresh.

The Impact of Water Exposure

Raindrops on an outdoor rug may look picturesque, but what happens when the rain doesn’t stop, the rug gets drenched, and then remains that way for a long time?

Mould and Mildew

These fungi thrive in damp, shaded environments. An outdoor rug that remains wet for long durations can become a prime breeding ground, especially if located in a shaded area. Mould not only discolours the rug but can produce allergens, potentially turning your comfy outdoor nook into a health hazard.

A Threat to Longevity and Lustre

Continuous exposure to moisture can weaken the rug fibres over time, especially if they are natural. This reduces the rug's lifespan, leading to quicker wear and tear. Additionally, even if the colours don't fade from sunlight, they can become washed out or blotchy due to repeated or lengthy water exposure.

A Rug’s Protection

Many high-quality outdoor rugs are explicitly designed to counter these. They come equipped with rapid-drying technologies, antimicrobial treatments, and tightly woven patterns that resist water retention.

Investing in these premium options ensures that the vibrancy and integrity of your rug remain uncompromised, come rain or shine.

Caring for Your Outdoor Rug Post-Rain

Rain won’t always be the friendliest weather for your outdoor rugs, but with the right care, your rug can rebound and be ready to shine post-shower. Here’s what you have to do:

Drying Deliberations

Once the rain stops, you need to dry your rug efficiently. Begin by shaking out any excess water. If you have a raised deck or railing, drape the rug over it to allow air to circulate on both sides.

Pro tip: a wet-dry shop vacuum can help extract trapped moisture.

Forecasting

Keep an eye on those weather predictions. If a downpour is on the horizon and your rug isn't made of the sturdiest stuff, consider rolling it up temporarily.

As for rug placement, while a spontaneous summer rain can be unpredictable, it might be wise to place rugs in semi-covered areas or beneath a canopy if the forecast is frequently wet.

Create yourself a covered conduit haven between your garden and your home, as we’ve done here with this Jaffa Sidon Azur Blue Anthracite rug:

Cleaning and Off-Season Care

Make it a practice to periodically clean your rug according to its material guidelines, ensuring it's free from dirt, debris, and any mildew spots. As the seasons change, if your rug isn’t in use, consider storing it. Roll it up, wrap it in a breathable material (to prevent mould), and store it in a dry place. This not only preserves the rug but also ensures it's fresh and ready for the next outdoor season.

Weather the Storm with Confidence

The key is not just choosing a rug that complements your outdoor aesthetic, but opting for one that's built to last through sun showers and torrential downpours alike.

Your patio, deck, or garden is an extension of your living space and deserves nothing but the best. By investing in quality from Rugs Direct’s outdoor rugs collection, you'll be purchasing peace of mind and ensuring your space remains inviting, regardless of the weather.

Explore our outdoor rug selection and find the pieces that weather the storm to shine brighter on the sunnier days ahead.