Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: What’s the Difference, Really?

Given the opportunity, I prefer going barefoot. That inadvertently gives me a lot of opportunities to feel different surfaces, especially rugs. For example, the luxury of a high-quality indoor rug can only truly be appreciated sans footwear. And especially in the winter, there is nothing like comfy, warm fibers underfoot.

But, outdoor rugs certainly have merits, too. They add style to exterior living spaces, protect decks and patios and keep sun-baked surfaces from burning tender feet and paws.

If you’re debating between getting an indoor rug or an outdoor rug for your space, here’s what to know.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: What Are They Made Out Of?

Indoor and outdoor rugs differ in feel and flexibility. Outdoor rugs tend to be coarser. They are made from harsher synthetic materials like polypropylene and polyester, which makes them more durable, resistant to the weather and easier to clean.

High-end indoor rugs have a cozier feel because they are usually woven from natural materials like cotton, wool and silk. Lower-end indoor rugs are still soft but not quite as luxurious because they are often made from synthetic materials such as acrylic, polyester and polypropylene.

“Indoor rugs are also softer and plusher since they are made with a higher pile that can be felt beneath your feet,” says rug dealer Harry Calladine. “Outdoor rugs are made with a flat-woven pile so [they] don’t have individual strands being exposed to the air like indoor rugs have.”

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: Size

Overall, both indoor and outdoor rugs come in similar sizes because manufacturers use the same size looms for both products, says Calladine. However, indoor rugs usually have more varied shape and dimension options, and outdoor rugs tend to be larger as they’re meant to cover more area.

“Outdoor rugs get less consideration for their design as they are usually thinner and placed on harder surfaces than indoor rugs,” says interior designer and rug expert Jason Nazmiyal.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: Durability

Outdoor rugs are more durable than indoor rugs. They are usually made of synthetic materials that can withstand constant exposure to UV, rain, snow and other moisture, plus they are more resistant to fading, fraying and general wear and tear.

“They are absolutely made to take a beating, from sun, rain, kids, dogs and even the occasional wine or food spill,” says outdoor furniture expert Lisa Delane.

For indoor rugs, durability depends on the material that you choose. “Something wool will be durable, but silk will be very delicate,” says contractor Docia Boylen. “Think about the traffic in the area the rug will be placed and plan accordingly.”

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: Cost

Outdoor rugs tend to be more affordable. “Their construction emphasizes function over aesthetic quality and a luxurious feel,” says Nazmiyal. Indoor rugs also go up in price if they’re made from high-quality materials like wool or silk.

But outdoor rugs still have a wide price range, depending on their softness and quality, says Delane. “You can get a high-end look outdoors without the price tag of an heirloom indoor rug,” she says.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rugs: Cleaning

Outdoor rugs are easier to clean. “You can literally hose them down and let them dry in the sun,” says Delane. “If you want something low-maintenance, outdoor rugs are definitely the way to go.”

How to clean an indoor rug

Indoor rugs often need to be cleaned by a specialist, though sometimes you can spot clean them for spills. For longevity, vacuum them often and follow the tag instructions for care recommendations.

How to clean an outdoor rug

Shake out outdoor rugs or use a broom to remove loose dirt. For a deeper clean, hose them down, then scrub gently using a soft brush and mild soap. To avoid mildew, let them dry completely in the sun before putting them back down.

FAQ

Can indoor rugs be used outdoors?

It’s not a good idea. Since they’re not built to withstand the elements, they likely won’t last long outside. “As a general rule, I would not recommend using an indoor rug outside because they are susceptible to mold, fading, deterioration and will absorb moisture,” says Boylen.

Can outdoor rugs be used indoors?

Yes. “If you have high-traffic areas inside your house, like a playroom, mudroom or even the kitchen, an outdoor rug might just be the ticket,” says Delane.

Do outdoor rugs get moldy?

Yes. Even though they are built to be moisture resistant, if outdoor rugs are left on a wet surface for too long, rolled up and stored when wet or used in an area with poor ventilation, they can mold, especially if you live in a humid environment. Solutions include periodically hanging them up to dry, or putting a breathable mat underneath.

About the Experts

• Lisa Delane is co-owner of Shop Living Gardens, a national online luxury outdoor furniture and décor store, based in California.
• Jason Nazmiyal is an interior designer, antique rug expert and founder of the Nazmiyal Antique Rugs gallery in New York City.
• Docia Boylen is owner of Handyman Connection of Golden, Colorado, where she’s been the “Boss Lady” for more than seven years.
• Harry Calladine works at Land of Rugs, one of the UK’s leading rug retailers.

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