Perfect Fit: How to Buy the Right Size Outdoor Rug

May 3rd 2024

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

In homes across America, carpeting has taken a backseat to natural wood and luxury vinyl flooring. Outside, however, outdoor rugs are having their day.

One reason? Style. A patio rug finishes off a space, adding color and pattern to your outdoor living area.

But there are other reasons to add patio rugs to your outdoor spaces.

Why Use an Outdoor Area Rug?

In addition to the aesthetics they bring, outdoor rugs are practical. They protect surfaces from scratches caused by moving furniture. They also keep feet comfortable when sun-baked surfaces get hot. And since we tend to run indoors and out more often during the summer, an outdoor rug helps keep sand, dirt and other debris out of the house.

Where Can You Use an Outdoor Rug?

You’ll find outdoor area rugs in all your favorite outdoor spaces including decks, patios, balconies and pool areas. Use a patio rug to define a conversation area, add elegance to an outdoor dining area or bring a cozy feeling to a porch or pergola.

The fact that outdoor patio rugs come in many sizes and styles makes them a versatile option for just about any outdoor living area.

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

What Size Outdoor Rug Do You Need?

Deciding to add an outdoor carpet is easy. Other details can be a little trickier. To pinpoint your needs, ask yourself these questions.

1. Where will you put your outdoor rug?

Your outdoor patio rug should complement the space in which it will be used. A narrow balcony, for instance, requires a completely different type of rug than a spacious patio or deck.

2. What size is the area where you want to use the rug?

Measure your space, but keep in mind that your patio rug shouldn’t be an exact fit. You’ll want to leave a perimeter around the outside of the rug for your patio furniture. How large a perimeter depends on your preferences and seating arrangement.

When using outdoor carpeting, there are three basic options for patio furniture placement.

All four legs of your furniture sit completely on the rug. This is a common arrangement for small spaces and creates an intimate setting.
All four furniture legs rest off of the rug. A great option if you have the room.
Only the front legs of each piece rest on the rug. A flexible compromise that often enables the addition of a coffee table in the center of your conversation area.

If the carpet is for an outdoor dining area, experts recommend adding 24 inches of carpeting on all sides of the table. This keeps all chair feet on the rug and enables guests easy access to the table without chair legs getting caught on the carpet edge.

All Legs In

All Legs Out

Legs Half In, Half Out

Dining Table Arrangement

3. Is the space covered or out in the open?

Many outdoor rugs are weather and fade resistant. However, certain materials, like jute, are better suited to dry locations like a covered patio or screened porch. Be sure the care recommendations of your outdoor carpet align with the conditions of its intended location.

4. What’s the traffic pattern?

In all cases, you should consider how much wear your carpet can endure. Most outdoor carpets are sturdy enough to handle substantial traffic, but lighter colors and some materials might require more frequent cleaning.

For larger areas, consider using more than one outdoor carpet. They’ll visually separate the space and you may be able to divert traffic around the patio rug.

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

Other Things to Think About

While the size of your outdoor rug is important, there are aesthetic considerations, too.

You’ll want your patio area rug to coordinate with the color and style of your patio furniture and the mood of your outdoor space. Choose a shape that complements the layout and design of your patio. Consider patterns and textures that can add visual interest to the space.

Outdoor area rugs are stylish patio accessories that add color, texture, protection and practicality to your outdoor space. Take time to evaluate your space and consider variables like wear and weather exposure to buy the perfect style and right size outdoor rug for your needs.

Browse Christmas Central to view hundreds of outdoor patio rug sizes and styles for your favorite outdoor space.

You may also like:

The Top 10 Features of Outdoor Spaces that Deserve the Name “Backyard Oasis”

Comfort, Style, Durability: 3 Reasons Why You Should Use an Outdoor Rug on Your Patio or Deck