Ideal Match: How to Choose the Right Size Outdoor Rug

Jun 28th 2024

Attractive, comfortable patio furniture on a large patio rug beneath a pergola at dusk, lit by patio lights

In households throughout America, carpet has given way to natural wood and elegant vinyl flooring. Outdoors, however, is where outdoor rugs shine.

One contributing factor? Style. A patio rug completes a space by introducing color and pattern to your exterior lounging zones.

However, there are multiple reasons to incorporate patio rugs into your outdoor arrangements.

What Makes Outdoor Rugs Beneficial?

Besides their visual appeal, outdoor rugs are functional. They safeguard surfaces from scratches due to relocating furniture. Additionally, they ensure feet remain comfortable on sun-scorched surfaces. And since we tend to flow between indoors and outdoors more frequently during the summer, an outdoor rug aids in keeping sand, dirt, and other debris out of your home.

Where are Outdoor Rugs Suitable?

Outdoor area rugs are a great choice for decks, patios, balconies, and poolside areas. Utilize a patio rug to differentiate a conversation zone, enhance an outdoor dining setup, or add a cozy atmosphere to a porch or pergola.

The variety of sizes and styles available for outdoor patio rugs makes them a flexible addition to any outdoor living space.

attractive patio furniture arranged on an outdoor patio. The chairs are arranged half on and half off the outdoor area rug

What Dimensions Should Your Outdoor Rug Be?

Choosing to install an outdoor rug is straightforward. The specifics might be trickier. To better understand your requirements, consider these questions.

1. Where will the outdoor rug be placed?

Your outdoor rug should suit the location where it will lie. A narrow balcony, for example, would benefit from a different type of rug compared to a larger patio or deck.

2. How big is the area you plan to cover?

Measure your space, but remember the patio rug shouldn’t be a precise fit. Leave a border around the rug for your patio furniture. The size of the border depends on personal preferences and seating arrangement.

When arranging outdoor rugs, consider three main approaches for furniture placement:

All four legs of the furniture rest entirely on the rug. This is typical for smaller spaces and fosters an intimate environment.
All four legs of the furniture are off the rug. This works well if sufficient space is available.
Only the front legs of the furniture pieces are on the rug. This is a flexible option that often allows for a coffee table in the central conversation area.

For outdoor dining areas, experts suggest leaving 24 inches of rug around the table. This keeps all chair legs on the rug, simplifying access to the table without the risk of chair legs catching the rug edge.

All Legs In

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All Legs Out

patio-rug-floor-layouts-half-in-75889641

Legs Partially On, Partially Off

Dining Setup

3. Is the space sheltered or exposed?

Many outdoor rugs are resistant to weather and fading. Nonetheless, some materials, like jute, are more suitable for dry environments, such as a covered patio or screened porch. Ensure that the maintenance guidelines for your outdoor rug match the conditions of its intended area.

4. What is the traffic flow?

You should always consider how much foot traffic your rug will withstand. Most outdoor carpets are durable enough to support heavy usage, but lighter colors and certain fabrics might necessitate more frequent upkeep.

For larger spaces, think about using multiple outdoor rugs. They will visually divide the area, and you might be able to direct foot traffic around the patio carpet.

wicker patio furniture arranged around abstract blue and yellow patio carpet.

Other Considerations

While the dimensions of your outdoor rug are crucial, aesthetics should not be neglected.

Your patio area rug should match the color and style of your patio furniture and the ambiance of your outdoor space. Choose a shape that harmonizes with the design and layout of your patio. Consider patterns and textures that can enhance the visual appeal of the space.

Outdoor area rugs are fashionable patio accessories that bring color, texture, protection, and function to your outdoor area. Take time to assess your space and contemplate aspects like wear and weather exposure to find the ideal style and size for your outdoor rug.

Browse Christmas Central to discover hundreds of outdoor patio rug sizes and styles for your beloved outdoor area.