Spending quality time on your porch, deck, or courtyard is one of the most enjoyable ways to relax at home. However, creating a functional and stylish outdoor space can be challenging. With the increasing demand for beautiful outdoor settings, there are many options for exterior designs. An outdoor rug can be a key piece of furniture or fixer, elevating your outdoor space and adding color and style even to the tiniest space. In this blog, we’ll learn about the fundamental differences between indoor and outdoor rugs, shedding light on why they are purposefully designed for their respective uses.
Materials Used to Manufacture Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs are constructed from materials that are robust in nature and can handle heavy and rough outside elements. These strong materials ensure durability, making outdoor rugs ideal for high-traffic areas.
The primary elements in outdoor rugs are synthetic materials or natural plant fibers. Plant fibers such as hemp, jute, sisal, and seagrass are highly known for their durability and sustainability and, hence, are used in composing outdoor rugs. Outdoor rugs are stylish, cost-effective, and require low maintenance. However, jute rugs should be placed in shaded or covered areas as they are prone to moisture-related damage and potential pest growth.
Additionally, artificial materials like polypropylene and polyester are preferred choices for outdoor rugs. Polypropylene rugs are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to stains.
Most polypropylene outdoor rugs are entirely UV resistant and are available in vibrant patterns and colors, making them an attractive yet affordable choice.
Caring for Outdoor Rugs
While outdoor rugs require relatively low maintenance, proper care is essential for extending their lifespan. Using rug pads for outdoor rugs is highly recommended as they are a protective barrier between the rug and the surface below, preventing wear and ensuring a safer walking surface.
Regular vacuuming is advisable to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. Quick cleaning in case of spills is crucial, as allowing them to sit for too long can result in lasting damage. Many outdoor rugs can be conveniently cleaned by machine-washing or rinsing with a garden hose, although reviewing the cleaning instructions on the specific rug is important. Leaf blowers can prove handy for removing outdoor debris.
Furthermore, even though outdoor rugs are built to withstand the outside elements, cleaning and storing outdoor rugs before winter is essential in snow-prone regions. The proper way to store is by rolling the rug with the bottom facing outward. This prevents damage and keeps pests at bay. After a rainstorm or washing, outdoor rugs should be hung in the sun to dry thoroughly.
Can Outdoor Rugs Be Used Indoors?
Indeed, outdoor rugs can seamlessly be moved indoors, offering unique advantages for specific areas of your home. Their resilience and moisture resistance make outdoor rugs an excellent choice for spaces prone to moisture, such as basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms, helping to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Outdoor rugs are renowned for their versatile and stylish designs, making them an ideal fit for various interior spaces. Their soft texture allows one to enjoy activities like binge-watching or playful moments with pets and children at home. Maintaining and cleaning outdoor rugs is way too easy, with most of them easily cleaned using mild soap, a multi-purpose scrub brush, and a garden hose. They can also be used carefreely in the kitchens of a busy household.
Selecting the Right Outdoor Rug
Choosing a suitable material for your outdoor area is crucial. Outdoor rugs made of synthetic fibers are well-suited for open spaces as synthetic fiber has the property to dry rapidly and is also moisture-resistant. On the other hand, rugs made of natural fibers can be used in covered areas as natural fibers are sturdy and sustainable. Additionally, acquiring a rug pad is essential, as it extends the life of any rug and enhances safety.
Can Indoor Rugs Be Used Outdoors?
Indoor rugs, except sisal, jute, and seagrass variants, are not designed to withstand UV light, dirt, and moisture. They are not subjected to high moisture levels, and their longevity is compromised when sun exposure makes removing trapped sand and dirt from the weave difficult.
The Versatility of Indoor-Outdoor Rugs
Indoor-outdoor rugs are the rugs that have the individual properties of both indoor and outdoor rugs. They are the best choice for people looking for the aesthetics and designs of indoor rugs and the durability of outdoor rugs. Polypropylene synthetic fiber is used to manufacture indoor-outdoor rugs. This material resists moisture, dirt, and fadedness and is perfect for entryways and kitchens.
With the option of many exquisite indoor and outdoor rugs, one can use them wherever desired. Beautiful and luxurious indoor rugs can be used for unique spaces like the living room or bedroom, while intricate rugs could be deployed in areas where durability is paramount.
Conclusion
Indoor and outdoor rugs serve similar purposes in defining spaces, enhancing design aesthetics, and providing a comfortable surface. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that using an outdoor rug indoors can be a successful endeavor, depending on your interior decor. In contrast, utilizing an indoor rug outdoors is not a good idea, as exposure to the sun and unusual weather can deteriorate the quality of an indoor rug.
In summary, the common differences between indoor and outdoor rugs are with materials, intended applications, and durability. Each rug is designed to excel in its respective environment, offering a balance of comfort, style, and longevity. Whether you’re refreshing your indoor living space or revamping your outdoor area, comprehending these differences will empower you to make the right rug selection tailored to your needs.
