My favorite outdoor rugs to decorate your space this summer

Instant makeover ✨

Three outdoor rugs on pastel pink and orange background
(Image credit: Future)

Once late sunsets and balmy evenings enter the group chat, my habitat is officially my backyard. Al fresco lunches, afternoon sunbathing, and starlit (or fairy-lit) chats define my summer months and none of these things are complete without decor. Yep, I’m a sucker for outdoor decor, from patio furniture to lanterns and fairy lights. However, the first thing I notice when I step foot in any backyard, from a patio to a balcony is the rug (or lack thereof).

The fact that outdoor rugs are so often overlooked should come as no surprise considering they’re quite literally on the floor. However, does nobody care about feng shui anymore?! Extending your living space by bringing the outdoors in and the indoors out, you’ll create a sense of harmony and flow almost immediately. Imagine summertime, sipping a cold drink with the sun on your skin, blue skies above you, friends to your side, and a beautiful rug underfoot… that’s a multi-sensory yes please if you ask me!

When it comes to choosing an outdoor rug, the first thing to think about is what size you need... 

Quick Menu:
1. 8x10 outdoor rugs
2. 5x8 outdoor rugs
3. 9x12 outdoor rugs

A rug is a perfect way to add texture, color, warmth, and character to a small garden, balcony, or patio without breaking the bank. However, when buying an outdoor rug you need to prioritize different things than you would when shopping for an indoor rug. By that I mean, while a tactile experience suitable for bare feet is important for an indoor rug, opt for a less deep pile model to cater to outdoor dirt. Beyond this, don’t forget about the weather — is your rug water-resistant or waterproof? This will impact if you can leave it outside all year round as well as its day-to-day functionality.

So, to save you the legwork, I’ve spent the day browsing the best and have put together a selection of covetable outdoor rugs in a range of sizes, colorways, and patterns! Whatever your personal style, there are so many beautiful rugs on the market, giving you the opportunity to totally personalize your outdoor space without making permanent modifications (renters, I got you). No matter your palette or personality, you’re going to fall in love with at least one of these!! 

The best outdoor rugs to buy in 2024

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8x10 outdoor rugs

5x8 outdoor rugs

9x12 outdoor rugs

FAQs

How do you style an outdoor rug? 

Styling an outdoor rug is just about choosing the right one for your space. (Or, if you're leaning into the Scandi trend of layering textures for depth and style, you can layer up multiple outdoor rugs — the more the merrier!)

"I would suggest, when choosing an outdoor rug, consider the size and shape of your space," explains Raf Michalowski, Interior Designer and founder of Meble Furniture. "For larger areas, opt for a round or oval rug to create a cozy conversation area. For smaller spaces, use a long runner to make the most of the space." 

Raf goes on to advise against skimping on size when it comes to choosing your outdoor rug, "Never go for a rug that is too small for your space, as it will make the area look cluttered. For instance, if the outdoor space is 5x7 feet, choose a rug that is at least 4x6 feet." 

What rugs are the best all year round? 

I'm a low-maintenance girly and the less trudging my outdoor rug in and out I can do, the better. However, sometimes, (for jute and sisal) I'm willing to bend my rules. Basically, it's important to understand that some rug materials are just simply not suited to the "rain or shine" lifestyle... and that's okay. 

"Polypropylene and synthetic fibers are two of the best options for all-weather outdoor rugs, as they are highly resistant to moisture and fading. Look for low-pile rugs that won't mat down in the rain, and opt for UV-resistant colors to ensure that your rug will last for years," explains Raf. 

In contrast, Raf proposes that natural fiber rugs, such as jute, should be styled in the shade of your balcony or backyard to reduce color fading. I'm going to stand ten toes down and declare my love for jute outdoor rugs, but I admit if you're looking for that all-year-round durability, synthetic outdoor rugs should be on your radar. 

What to consider when buying an outdoor rug

To find the best rug to suit your outdoor living needs, there are a few considerations to know before buying.

Size and location
Before you choose your outdoor rug, think about where you will place it and the size you will need. Outdoor rugs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to find the right size for your space. A super large rug would suit big outdoor spaces but will overwhelm smaller patios. Soft-edged, circular-shaped rugs would make a more practical yet stunning alternative. Most rugs can be used indoors so it’s great to find a versatile rug to suit both indoors and out.

Material
Quality outdoor rugs are durable, weatherproof, and hardwearing. When buying a rug, it’s worthwhile noting what material type is best for your space. Polypropylene is a common material used for outdoor rugs as it doesn’t absorb any liquids or stains and makes it mold and mildew resistant. Some modern rugs use jute and hemp materials, while others are made from recyclable materials and are eco-friendly.  

Care
Another useful thing to know is how to look after your outdoor rug. After all, you want to ensure you get the best out of it with each use. While most outdoor rugs are machine washable, others can simply be wiped clean or dusted down. It’s best to find one that you can easily maintain to guarantee a long life and enjoy all year round.

Where to buy an outdoor rug

Continue your hunt for the best outdoor rug just below.

How we chose these outdoor rugs

These outdoor rugs were chosen based on their customer reviews. All of the outdoor rugs featured in this guide have been rated highly by real shoppers for your peace of mind. We also chose them based on other factors, such as material and price as well as how easy they are to clean.

Niamh is a freelance journalist and the Head of Content at Raft Furniture. She is obsessed with all things interior design, with a particular focus on sustainability and city-dweller style. The wooden floorboards and built-in bookcase in Niamh’s rented North London home occupy her daydreams between writing, and after work, she has a knack for finding cheap plane tickets. 

With contributions from