Designer FAQs: Indoor & Outdoor Area Rugs
What makes a rug suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces?
Spills, muddy footprints, and other by-products of daily living can be hard on a handcrafted rug. Indoor/outdoor rugs are woven from durable, stain-resistant materials that are easy to clean, vacuum, and take care of.
These same stain-resistant materials are also UV-stabilized, which means they're fade resistant and won't quickly lighten under the sun's rays. Add their durability factor, and you have a perfect groundcover for all kinds of indoor and outdoor settings.
Is it okay to put an outdoor rug on a deck?
It's better than okay—it's a terrific way to give your deck, patio, veranda, or sunroom the homey and luxurious feel of an indoor room. An indoor/outdoor area rug helps to anchor your outdoor lounging or dining space; it makes it feel like a real and beautifully designed room.
What kind of rug is best for outdoors?
Look for materials like UV-stabilized polypropylene, which is designed to stand up to the elements and resist fading. As far as colors and patterns, your choices are as unlimited as your imagination. Here are some tips from our interior designers:
- Neutral indoor/outdoor rugs are suitable for almost any patio. Choose a flatwoven rug that mimics the look of natural fibers for a casual feel, or increase the elegance factor with a rug that has a Greek key pattern.
- If you want to opt for a bolder color or an eye-popping pattern, choose one that complements the colors and patterns in your cushion fabrics. This bold striped indoor/outdoor rug is a designer favorite.
Are outdoor rugs really waterproof?
If they're made from polypropylene, yes! Great news for pet owners: If your pet is prone to tracking in mud or having the occasional accident, an indoor/outdoor rug can be a real lifesaver.
What indoor/outdoor rug sizes are available?
Every rug is different, particularly if it's handwoven, so check the sizes on each product's page beneath the name for available size options. If you like the rug you see but don't see the size you need, find a Design Center to ask about having the rug cut to a custom size.
How do I know an indoor/outdoor rug will look good in my rooms or on my patio?
To preview a rug in any room (or on any patio), take an image of your space and upload it to our rug visualizer. If you haven't settled on your room's design, you can also try out the rug in our sample room photos to find a look that inspires you.
For help with how to arrange furniture in relation to a rug, whether you're designing an indoor or outdoor room, check out our rug buying guide.
To play around with not only selecting a rug but also designing whole rooms, try out our DIY 3D Room Planner.
And of course, any Ethan Allen interior designer can help you select the perfect indoor/outdoor rug at the perfect size; they can even come to your home to take professional measurements. Their help is included in our complimentary design service: click here to make an appointment near you.
Do you have more questions? Click the Designer Chat icon, or contact your local Design Center—we’re happy to help!
