0330 113 4909
Mon to Fri 9am-5pm
Mon to Fri 9am-5pm
Rules for Outdoor Patio Rugs in the UK
When it comes to buying an outdoor patio rug, there are a few things to consider. It’s not just about buying the first stylish patio rug you see, you should consider size, style, how it’s going to work with your patio’s design and what it’s made from to ensure it can withstand the temperamental UK weather.
What is an Outdoor Patio Rug?
An outdoor patio rug is a rug that is placed outside on your patio to enhance the appearance of your outside space, provide comfort and protect flooring from heavy foot traffic. Patio rugs are typically made from the same synthetic materials used in outdoor rugs, which include polypropylene, nylon, acrylic and polyester and sometimes natural fibres like jute.
What Size Rug Do I Need for My Patio?
Well, this depends on a few things, mainly the size of your patio!
If you’re working with a small, rectangular patio, you may want to consider getting a patio rug of the same shape and a size that fits neatly within it, so it doesn’t dominate the entire space. We provide outdoor patio rugs in a range of sizes, our smallest being 2’0” x 5’11” - with some of our larger rugs coming in at 5’3” x 7’5”.
We’d advise measuring the dimensions of your patio before buying one of our patio rugs to ensure the size and shape fits well.
How Do I Position an Outdoor Patio Rug?
You may also want to consider what your outdoor patio rug is going to be used for. Think about whether the rug is purely decorative or if it serves a purpose, such as entertaining guests, acting as a safety accessory for slippery surfaces (like decking or concrete in the rain) or something else.
Anchoring a rug underneath furniture is a common and aesthetically attractive option for any patio space, but be sure you know how to buy and position a rug underneath furniture.
Think About the Shape
The shape is another important consideration when choosing an outdoor patio rug. The shape of your patio rug can help anchor furniture and make the space more dynamic.
The shape you choose may depend on both the existing shape of your patio and what you’re hoping to achieve with the space. Round patio rugs are typically placed under one or two patio chairs and a small table to create an intimate reading or socialising area.
However, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing rug shapes, just have a good idea of what you’re looking to achieve with the space before hitting that buy button on our website!
Our Favourite Outdoor Patio Rugs
We have a wide range of beautiful and stylish outdoor patio rugs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a modern geometric design to add some style and sophistication to your outdoor area - or something more subtle like a round flat weave jute rug to add comfort to a more intimate outdoor social space, we’re sure to have something for everyone.
This grey diamond rug is one of our most popular outdoor patio rugs primarily due to its versatility. Coming in sizes from 80cm x 150 up to 200cm x 300xm, there are plenty of sizes to suit a range of patio shapes and sizes. This rug will work particularly well on a grey stone, marble or concrete patio as the white and grey colour scheme would complement the flooring well. However, this diamond rug would also work well on decked floors.
Made from 100% polypropylene, this outdoor patio rug will be able to withstand everything that the UK’s weather can throw at it. Designed in a gorgeous subtle blue and beige, the design lends itself to neutral outdoor colour schemes. Line this rug on top of wooden decking for a rustic, beach-vibe feel.
Ideal for smaller patios, this rectangular Brighton rug is a beautiful merge of coral colours, perfect for modern and traditional outside spaces. This patio and garden rug design will work well on decking, marble, concrete and balcony floors.
Note: All patio rugs mentioned above can also be used indoors too, ideal for hosting parties, events and protecting flooring in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways and game rooms. Take a look at our indoor/outdoor garden rugs for more information.
Explore Our Full Range of Outdoor Patio Rugs
Hopefully, this article has shed light on some key factors to consider when buying an outdoor patio rug for your home or commercial space. It’s worth investing a little more on high-quality patio rugs that will stand the test of time and continue looking stylish throughout the seasons than spending less on a cheap rug that may fray and discolour.
Take a look at our outdoor patio rugs now and get free delivery when you spend £75 on any product from Rugs Direct.
FAQs
Can outdoor rugs be left outside?
Outdoor rugs are not often waterproof. But they are water-resistant. Simply put, they absorb less water than most indoor rugs, and they dry a lot quicker after getting wet. Thanks to these characteristics outdoor rugs can be left outside and stay outside even in the rain.
Can you put an outdoor rug on a concrete patio?
Unless it's sealed, concrete can be porous and could present challenges for some outdoor rugs, Wagner says. If a rug doesn't allow moisture to evaporate, it can lead to mildew, so opt for a breathable one if you can.
Are outdoor rugs waterproof?
Outdoor rugs are designed to be water-resistant, not waterproof, which means not getting wet. They are designed using mostly synthetic materials that help repel water from weather - like heavy wind and rainfall. They’re also much easier to clean than indoor rugs, requiring only a wipedown with a damp cloth. To dry them, simply leave them outside to hang and air dry.
What’s the difference between a waterproof rug and a water-resistant patio rug?
The main difference comes down to the materials used in the rug. Water-resistant materials, such as nylon, polypropylene and acrylic are tightly woven together to repel water, making it tough to get through. Waterproof, on the other hand, means that the materials or surface provides a complete water barrier. No rugs are entirely waterproof.
Are outdoor patio rugs stain-resistant?
All outdoor rugs are designed to be water-resistant and most high-quality patio rugs will also be stain-resistant. However, be sure to check manufacturers guidelines regarding how to effectively clean them if wine or other tough stains occur.
Can you put an outdoor rug on a balcony?
Yes, quality outdoor rugs from Rugs Direct can be placed on balconies without the risk of becoming damaged due to wind and rain.