Outdoor rugs are a great way to spice up your outdoor space and make it more inviting. Most of them are typically designed to withstand the elements. But a common question homeowners ask is, “can outdoor rugs be left in the rain?”
It depends on the type of material the rug is made from. Outdoor rugs made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyester can withstand rain and other wet conditions. So, even if outdoor rugs get wet, they won’t lose their structural strength, shape, or color.
On the other hand, a natural fiber rug cannot withstand moisture for long periods without getting ruined or attracting mold. It’s essential to check your outdoor rug material before deciding whether to leave it outside. In this article, we will answer all your questions regarding leaving outdoor rugs in the rain, the best materials for such conditions, and how to care for your rug after it rains.
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Can Outdoor Rugs Stay Out In The Rain?
This depends on the quality of the rug and the type of material it’s made from. Generally, outdoor rugs made of polypropylene or other synthetic materials can be left in the rain. These materials don’t retain water and dry quickly after getting spilled or rained on. So, a little rain, here and there, won’t cause any harm.
In contrast, indoor rugs or outdoor rugs made from natural fibres like jute or wool soak up a lot of water and can get ruined when left in the rain for long. It’s better to keep such rugs inside until you have friendly weather.
Generally, it’s good to store all rugs indoors during long periods of rainfall or snow since you won’t be using them. While this is not a must, it will make the rug last longer.
What Types of Rugs are Suitable for Rain?
There are certain materials (synthetic) that make some outdoor rugs more durable and ideal for humid weather. These materials are synthetic and will not get ruined if wetted. So, make sure you check the rug type (material) before making a purchase.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is the most common material used for outdoor rugs. Its major selling point is that it’s durable, stain-proof, easy to clean, and much more affordable than natural fibre.
It’s hygienic to use and can be blended with other materials to make it even more attractive and durable. You can wash and dry it repeatedly, and it won’t lose its strength.
In most cases, the rug will be lightweight, so you may need to secure it with stakes, outdoor furniture or rug weights.
All these and more make polypropylene rug a great waterproof outdoor rug and a premium option for rainy climates and general outdoor use.
Polyester
Polyester is another synthetic material that doesn’t have a problem with water. It’s incredibly versatile and is available in various colours and designs, so you will never run out of options.
Like polypropylene, polyester outdoor rugs are durable and have waterproofing properties. So, they can withstand long periods of rainfall without getting ruined. They are quite easy to maintain (except for oil-based stains) and will last for many years.
An added benefit of polyester is that it’s stain and fade-resistant, which makes it suitable for dry climates. As a result, you can use it all year round.
Nylon
Nylon is well-known for its strength; this makes it perfect for areas with heavy foot traffic. So, you can use it in your deck, yard, or outdoor living space.
Nylon outdoor rugs are durable, colorfast, and easy to clean. They are also fade-resistant but can heat up quickly when placed under direct sunlight.
Like other synthetic rugs, nylon rugs can withstand rain, snow, and other humid conditions. So, it’s definitely something you can use all year round, though you might want to place it under a covered patio during summer to prevent overheating.
Can Outdoor Rugs Get Moldy When rained on?
Yes, outdoor rugs can become moldy if they are frequently rained on. The accumulation of dirt and moisture can encourage the growth of mold and mildew in the rug fibers.
This is more common with natural fiber rugs such as jute or sisal. Polypropylene and polyester rugs, on the other hand, will be able to handle all the water better. However, if they don’t get enough time to dry before the next rain, they too can become damp, which can be a problem if there’s a wood deck or tile underneath. While the rug won’t be ruined, mold can grow on the floor beneath.
So, whether you have a waterproof rug or not, it’s important you keep it dry and clean at all times to protect it from mold. Take care of the rug after rain by folding and storing it away inside or dry it thoroughly once you have a dry weather.
Can Rug Pad Withstand In The Rain?
Yes, they can. The surface of most rug pads is usually made of 100 percent recycled polyester, while the bottom is thermoplastic rubber. The latter is biodegradable, waterproof, and doesn’t contain latex. As a result, they are safe to use in moist conditions. In other words, you can use a rug pad in the rain without worrying about it getting ruined or becoming slippery.
How Do You Care For Outdoor Rugs After Rain?
Most outdoor rugs are crafted from synthetic fibers like polypropylene, which do not absorb water and dry fast. However, to ensure the rug dries properly, you need to pick it up and dry it up, especially after a heavy rain.
We recommend air drying for at least a day in the sun to ensure there’s no moisture left in the rug. You can lay it on the ground or hang it on a railing or fence. Remember to flip it over multiple times throughout the drying process, so both sides can dry thoroughly. This is important to prevent any damp condition that would encourage mold growth on your decking or tiles.
You can also use a wet vacuum to make the process faster. Vacuuming will help remove residues such as mud and dirt that have sunk into the rug. Use a towel to soak up the moisture if your rug is not too thick. You can get rid of any foul odor with a deodorizer or vinegar.
FAQs – Can outdoor rugs be left in the rain
Do Outdoor Rugs Dry Fast After Rain?
Yes, they do. Specifically, outdoor rugs made from synthetic materials are designed to dry quickly after rain. So, you can just leave them to dry on their own after a little drizzle. However, for heavy downpours, it’s recommended to pick them up and dry in the sun, especially if you’re using a wooden deck or tile.
Can polypropylene rugs get wet?
Even though polypropylene rugs are water-resistant, they can still get wet. But what separates them from natural fiber rugs is that they are designed to deal with wetness. So, your polypropylene rug will not get ruined when wet. Make sure to dry it properly, especially after a heavy shower, to prevent mold and mildew growth. Or you can take it inside during the colder months to protect its design.
Can you leave outdoor rugs outside in winter?
Yes, you can. The best outdoor rugs are made to weather through the seasons all year round. So, leaving yours out in the winter shouldn’t be a big concern. However, it’s better to bring it indoors since you’re probably not going to be using it. Storing the rug safely will help extend its lifespan.
Do outdoor rugs absorb water?
Outdoor rugs made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene are typically water-resistant, so they don’t absorb water. But this doesn’t mean they can’t get wet; they do. The good thing is that they dry quickly. This is what makes them ideal for pool areas and spring showers.
You may need to hang the rug over a railing after a heavy rain to make it dry faster.
Do outdoor rugs smell after rain?
Synthetic outdoor rugs typically don’t smell because they dry quickly after rainfall. However, other options might smell when they stay wet for long periods. This happens as they become soaked with dirt and eventually generate mold.
Mold and mild are the major causes of discoloration and bad smell in rugs.
Can an Outdoor Rug Ruin Your Deck?
Yes, it can if the rug is made of natural fiber like jute or sisal. Natural fiber rugs absorb a lot of water, making it easy for mold to grow, which, in turn, can cause the deck to rot or decay. On the other hand, synthetic outdoor rugs do not usually have this problem as they don’t absorb much water. Having said that, it’s still a good habit to regularly inspect the carpet and deck for signs of wear or decay, especially if you live in a rainy region.
For more info, check out this article – will an outdoor rug damage a wood deck?
Conclusion
We will draw the curtains here. As you can see, outdoor rugs are designed to withstand moisture. So, you can leave yours in the rain without worrying about it getting ruined. Just make sure the rug is made from a rainproof material like polypropylene, polyester, nylon, or recycled PET.
If your rug becomes unbearably wet, take it off and dry it over a rainy or fence. You can also lay it out on the ground but make sure to flip it over after a few hours to ensure it dries completely. Or else, you may have a problem with mold when you eventually place it back on your deck.
