Are Outdoor Rugs Waterproof? (Non-Waterproof and Waterproof Materials)

You might have heard that outdoor rugs aren’t waterproof, meaning that water can leak through the weave in the fabric and cause damage to your floors. Which makes sense. But is it really true?

Are Outdoor Rugs Waterproof?

Not only do outdoor rugs add to the look of your home, but they will also help protect your patio or porch from water. Outdoor rugs are made of water-resistant materials and they are designed to stay under and around furniture to prevent any drips from getting on the floorboards.

However, They’re designed to withstand moderate rain, snow and poolside splashing, but should never be left outdoor if it’s a prolonged downpour or if there is any chance of flood.

In addition, water or moisture can be trapped beneath the rug however, this can be solved with the use of an anti-skid backing pad.

In some of the regions where there is a rainy season in most of the months of the year, waterproof outdoor rugs are the only rigid option one may look after. As it is sometimes difficult to predict the run and you may not be there at home to take care of the things like outdoor rugs. 

If they are waterproof it will save a lot of your time to fold and keep it indoor. One other reason one may look for waterproof rugs could be to just keep it clean by regularly washing it with water and maybe with oap too!

Best Outdoor Rug Waterproof Materials

Do you need help finding the best materials for outdoor rugs? We’ve got you covered. Here you’ll discover what materials to avoid and which ones are the best for outdoor rugs

1. Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a most popular synthetic rug material. It is resistant to UV rays and does not fade under the glare of the hot sun. It is stain resistant and can be washed with water and relatively maintenance free so you can feel comfortable putting a polypropylene rug underneath a backyard dining set.

2. Polyester

Polyester rugs make the ideal outdoor rug, especially for outdoor high traffic areas. If you’re looking for a new rug for your porch, patio or pool area, think polyester. Polyester is another simple to clean synthetic material that can handle pretty much everything from dust to spill out to water droplets and even rain. Great news is it’s inexpensive and stain resistant.

3. Nylon

This is an ideal rug material for high traffic areas because it stands up well to wear and tear. It adds strength and durability to outdoor rugs, even in mild-climate areas where weather fluctuations are frequent. Nylon handles stains better than other outdoor rug fibers that tend to soak them up. It is washable fabric and can withstand rain as well.

Non-Waterproof Rug Material

1.Jute

Jute, is a natural fiber that is environmentally friendly. This fiber is sturdy but not super durable. This kind of rug material will turn brown when wet. It does that because it releases oils that brown the fibers. Cleaning rugs can be a challenge because you have to clean them or simply vacuum and use a low moisture cleaning method.

2.Sisal

This Rug Material does absorb moisture. Over time though, their shape will change slightly. So, one should  avoid exposing them to water, put them somewhere they won’t get wet.Hence, it is not an ideal material to use outside.

Do Outdoor Rugs Get Moldy?

Using synthetics in your outdoor rug will give it lasting durability, support, and flexibility. However, an outdoor rug can still become moldy if constantly exposed to very damp or humid conditions. The outdoor rugs get mouldy if you do not allow it to dry and keep it wet for a longer time. If remains wet over the period of time mould will start to grow on the dirt within the rug fibers. 

How To Protect An Outdoor Rug From Getting Moldy?

To stop mould from growing on your area rug, start by leaving it to hang outside in full exposure to direct sunlight. If you don’t have a porch or railing, flip the rug the opposite way after doing the above to ensure that both sides dry evenly. 

Bleach is another solution for killing the growth on outdoor rugs, but it’s not the most environment-friendly option.

Another solution is to spill a diluted vinegar and water mixture onto the turf and scrub thoroughly with a brush. Press a dry towel on top of the spot to soak up extra moisture and let it air-dry before using the rug.

What Is The Difference Between Indoor Rugs And Outdoor Rugs?

• The main difference between indoor and outdoor rugs is that materials used to make each differ from one another. 
• Outdoor rugs usually are made from tough material that can withstand the various elements such as rain, snow, sun, etc. The indoor area’s topmost priority is its comfort; therefore it must make sure that the flooring stays comfortable. So, the material used for indoor rugs generally can not withstand the outdoor harsh environment.
• The outdoor rugs can be used in areas like bathrooms and poolside but the indoor rugs can not be used in spaces like these because the material can not withstand any kind of stains and water spillage. 
• Outdoor rugs can be used indoors but indoor rugs can never be used outdoors.

Can Indoor Rugs Be Used Outside?

No, indoor rugs can never be used outside because indoor rugs are not made to withstand the elements – rain and sun of the outdoors. These would fade them, watermark them, and make the rugs disintegrate.

Can You Use Outdoor Rugs in the Bathroom?

With a range of options, outdoor rugs can be used for many parts of the home. Like in the bathrooms they can be used as these areas always have water spill and humidity, so using indoor mats in such areas will not be a wise choice.

Outdoor rugs are very durable, well-constructed and water-resistant, and stain-hardy which makes it perfect to use in the bathroom. But it is advisable to keep it dry outside once in a while to avoid mould.

Can You Waterproof an Indoor Rug for Outdoor Use?

No, you can not waterproof indoor rugs and use them outside.  Indoor rugs, usually made from delicate materials such as wool and silk, cannot withstand outdoor conditions. If you have a machine-made rug made from synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon, then you can put it outside too.

Conclusion

Outdoor rugs made up of specific material are waterproof whereas natural materials like jute are not waterproof. However, they can get moldy but if proper precautions are taken then they can be prevented from getting moldy.

There is a difference in the material that is used for indoor and outdoor rugs. So, one should not try using indoor rugs outdoors as it can not withstand the outside harsh environment.

But you can use these waterproof outdoor rugs in the bathroom as indoor rug is not the perfect fit for such wet places.