Top-Rated Quick-Dry Outdoor Rug Options for Decks & Patios
Updated: Apr. 15, 2024
Tie together all of your decor with the best outdoor rugs for wood decks, patios and porches.
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Both indoor and outdoor rugs should be versatile, durable and cozy up or add life to a drab area. The best outdoor rugs for wood decks should also be made with quick-drying polypropylene material to keep mold, mildew and wood rot at bay.
Outdoor rugs are typically made from more durable materials than their indoor counterparts and, as a result, they won’t feel as plush or thick as an indoor rug. Polyester-blend rugs may feel softer underfoot, but retain more water than those made with polypropylene, a thermoplastic polymer that’s the best waterproof material for the job.
Regardless of your space and design preferences, we have you covered with took an in-depth look at the best outdoor rugs on the market. Let’s get into it, shall we?
The Best Outdoor Rugs for Wood Decks
- Best Overall: Nuloom Multi Stripe
- Best Budget: Foundstone Brennen Irielle
- Best Washable: Ruggable Nomada Multicolor Rug
- Best Fade-Resistant: Ashworth Scrolling Leaf Rug
- Most Festive: Lorena Southwestern Rug
- Best with Shape and Size Options: Unique Loom Trellis
- Best Floral: Nourison Aloha Floral Rug
- Best Non-Slip: Waverly Seaglass Rug
- Best Bordered: Latitude Run Bordered Rug
- Best Splurge: Dash & Albert Handwoven Outdoor Rug
Best Overall Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Nuloom Multi-Stripe Rug
Welcome your guests to a well-appointed deck or patio with this fade-resistant outdoor rug by Nuloom. This multi-stripe indoor/outdoor rug comes in five color choices and a wide range of sizes. Thanks to its polypropylene material, it’s easy to clean, so it’s the ideal outdoor rug for wood decks for homes with kids and pets. Nuloom rugs are tested for over 1,000 harmful chemicals, earning them a Climate Pledge Friendly certification on Amazon.
Pros
- Easy-to-clean material
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- Available in five colors
- Soft texture
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- May need to be weighted against the wind
Best Budget Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Foundstone Brennen Irielle Rug
This budget-friendly, versatile rug can be used both indoors and outdoors. Its clean lines and neutral tones give it a modern feel that’ll fit in a high-traffic entryway or on a deck with casual seating. Woven with 100% polypropylene, this Foundstone outdoor rug is durable and easy to clean. You can shop it in various colors and sizes, too.
“Looks very nice on the deck,” writes one five-star reviewer. “Good quality, doesn’t seem to fray like some other outdoor rugs. Good weight to it. Isn’t slipping around.”
Pros
- Affordable price
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- Easy-to-clean material
- Available in eight colors
Cons
- Edges may curl
Best Washable Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Ruggable Nomada Multicolor Rug
Sweep, spray or machine wash this rainbow-colored rug with its geometric print. Not only is it bright and lively, but it’s also extremely easy to clean, thanks to Ruggable’s innovative two-piece system. Each rug comes with a non-skid base layer and a “rug cover” that can be removed and cleaned in the washing machine. The cover is also water-, ultraviolet (UV)- and chlorine-resistant for durability. With a range of colors and sizes available, you’re sure to find the right one for your space
Pros
- Machine washable
- Features a patented two-piece Rug System
- Has a water-resistant barrier
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
Cons
- Pricey
Best Fade-Resistant Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Ashworth Scrolling Leaf Rug
For a more classic design, choose this top-rated Ashworth rug that features a traditional scrolling leaf border around a simple diamond center. This flat-weave polypropylene option has been tested for colorfastness in direct sun and salt-air climates, so you know the beautiful pattern won’t fade—and you won’t want your taupe, blue or black to go anywhere! Plus, it’s heavy enough to stay put on a windy day and lays flat once it’s relaxed.
Pros
- Extreme-tested for colorfastness
- Won’t get overly hot or cold
- Designed to withstand driving rain
- Available in three colors
Cons
- Edging may fray
Most Festive Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Lorena Southwestern Rug
If you’re looking for a blast of color on your patio, check out the bright Lorena rug from Steelside. The Southwestern-inspired look would fit in on a wood or cedar deck that needs a blast of color. Made from stain-resistant materials, it can withstand plenty of dinner parties and still look as sharp as the day you unrolled it. You can sweep away crumbs with a broom or vacuum up tracked-on dirt from pets and crowds. Wayfair offers 18 different sizes and shapes, from runners to round, so you’ll be able to add a festive flair to your space no matter its dimensions.
Pros
- Cheerful pattern
- Easy-to-clean material
- Comes in many sizes
- Designed for high-traffic areas
Cons
- Only available in one color combination
Best Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks with Shape and Size Options
Unique Loom Trellis Collection
A trellis pattern never goes out of style, and if a traditional rectangular rug isn’t the right shape for your space, you’re in luck. From octagons to squares, Unique Loom makes a range of budget-friendly outdoor rugs in various shapes, sizes and colors. Its durable polypropylene construction resists water, mold, mildew and stains—just what you want in an outdoor rug for wood decks. When dirty, the rug easily hoses off, and it’ll certainly make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your home.
“I bought this rug for a high-traffic area on my deck and worried the dirt would show within a few days or weeks,” explains five-star reviewer, Valerie P. “It’s been about about three to six months since I purchased this product, and it still looks brand new! I can’t believe it!!!”
Pros
- Many shapes, sizes and colors available
- Features a classic pattern
- Affordable price
- Designed for high-traffic areas
Cons
- Slippery when wet
- Fades in the sun over time
Best Floral Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Nourison Aloha Floral Rug
The Aloha collection features a variety of floral and tropical designs sure to please anyone who loves a bold statement. The vivid colors in this area rug from Nourison will brighten any patio design. Made of polypropylene, it comes in sizes and shapes ranging from runners to room-size options. Plus, this rug features a rubber backing that keeps it in place with less likelihood that the wind will blow it away. This rug is for indoor and outdoor use, so consider also using it to brighten a basement or playroom.
Pros
- Available in four floral designs
- Features rubber backing
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- Climate Pledge Friendly
Cons
- Some users reported fading over time
Best Non-Slip Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Waverly Seaglass Rug
As its name suggests, this sea glass-inspired rug features an abstract design that’ll fit right in with coastal or beach-themed decor. Made from polyester, its blue and green fabric is stain- and fade-resistant. Plus, it comes with a latex backing to prevent it from sliding around on your patio. However, this may not be the best outdoor rug for you if you’re in a rainy climate, because this polyester rug retains moisture more than most polypropylene rugs. On the other hand, we love the affordability, modern design and blending of colors for a relaxing backyard vibe.
Pros
- Non-slip backing (on large sizes)
- Soft underfoot
- Affordable price
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
Cons
- Longer dry time
- Only available in two colors
Best Bordered Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Latitude Run Bordered Rug
Another classic outdoor rug for wood decks is this bordered rug, which features a solid center with a striped accent border. There are 10 hue options to choose from to complement your space to perfection. The rug’s polypropylene and polyester materials are resilient against everyday wear and tear, but real-life buyers recommend adding a rug pad to avoid slipping. If you’re looking for an outdoor rug that’s not too busy, but not too boring, consider this a quality pick.
Pros
- Unique border pattern
- Available in 10 colors
- Affordable price
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
Cons
- Some users report stubborn wrinkles
Best Splurge Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Dash & Albert Handwoven Outdoor Rug
For those who appreciate handmade quality and durability, Dash & Albert take outdoor rugs to the next level. For a weather warrior, this handwoven rug is surprisingly soft and luxurious. These artisan-crafted indoor/outdoor rugs have a pleasing diamond design in nine muted colors and 10 sizes. Don’t see your ideal size? You can select custom dimensions to ensure it’s a fit for your specific space. Even better, there’s no need to worry about muddy shoes or dropped popsicles; This flatweave polypropylene rug is easily hosed off, scrubbed, vacuumed or bleached.
Pros
- Handmade with a timeless look
- Comes in different shapes and sizes—including custom
- Available in nine colors
- Soft underfoot
Cons
- Some shoppers noticed pilling
What to Look for When Buying an Outdoor Rug for Wood Decks
Aside from proper sizing, pattern and colors, the most important thing to consider when choosing the best outdoor rug for wood decks is the material. Outdoor polypropylene rugs are superior for weather resistance, but are usually thin and lightweight. Smaller rugs are easily blown around the yard with high winds unless anchored with pots or patio furniture.
When wet rugs are placed on wood decks for extended periods, they can lead to rotting, mold and mildew. To help rugs and decks dry, flip or hang your rug over a fence or the deck rail. Consider how you’re hoping to clean your area rug. Some can be hosed down while others require more time-consuming spot treatment. If the rug will go in a high-traffic area, a stain-resistant option is best. When choosing a color, keep in mind that dark solids and light colors will show more dirt than variegated weaves, patterns and earth tones.
Why You Should Trust Us
Although we didn’t test these particular rugs, I’m a professional interior designer with over 30 years of experience, and I believe the easiest way to transform a space is to simply change the area rug. Plus, I have personal experience with several of the brands we’re recommending. At Family Handyman, we take pride in doing extensive research so you don’t have to. After all, that’s why you’re here, right?
A Pretty Rug Isn’t Necessarily a Quality Rug
When it comes to backyard decor, we always look for durable, weather-resistant options while also paying special attention to the construction, materials and customer satisfaction ratings. All of the outdoor rugs for wood decks on this list contain polypropylene, a material that’s naturally resistant to mold and mildew, as the main ingredient. However, no matter how tough an outdoor rug is, Mother Nature is stronger, and the rug will eventually fade, fray or decay. Because of that, we aimed to recommend several budget-friendly options. To do so, we combed through dozens of options and hundreds of real-life user reviews to find the 10 best picks for your consideration.
Conclusion
The best outdoor rug for wood decks is a quick-drying polypropylene rug that can be washed off with a hose or treated with mild soap. Avoiding mildew is key to the longevity of an outdoor rug. Although polypropylene is stain- and fade-resistant, the sun can eventually fade the colors. Your rug will last longer if you store it for the winter.
Originally Published: August 21, 2020
