Durable Waterproof Outdoor Rugs That Can Handle the Weather and Still Look Great
While most outdoor rugs are simply water-resistant, these completely waterproof rugs are great for high-trafficked outdoor spaces.
Summer means spending more time outdoors, which means you might be looking for ways to upgrade your patio or outdoor space. And while some products are meant to simply beautify an area in your home, others are more practical, like a waterproof outdoor rug. Also known as patio mats or RV rugs, a 100 percent waterproof rug is usually a tightly braided mat made of plastic. It tends to be reversible, lightweight and easily foldable.
While a completely waterproof rug doesn't have the soft feel or decorative pizzazz of a water-resistant outdoor rug (which will not be as durable), it's one of the best products you can buy for a highly trafficked outdoor area like a pool space or patio. Unlike standard rugs, it's easy to clean, lightweight, and won't fade or mildew over time. It can also withstand intense weather, be left out year-round and requires almost no maintenance at all. And even though they're practical, we still found some beautiful colors and patterns that will look nice for all sorts of outdoor spaces.
What to Consider When Buying a Waterproof Outdoor Rug
Material: The most common material used to make fully waterproof outdoor rugs is polypropylene, which is a synthetic plastic material commonly used in household products. It's known for being lightweight, moisture-resistant and having a higher melting point, making it heat-resistant as well. It's used in products like outdoor rugs, reusable tote bags, and even clothing because of its resistance to wear and its waterproof abilities. Another popular material is polyethylene terephthalate or PET. It's the most recycled material in the United States, so it's often used in waterproof rugs made from previously recycled bottles.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: All of the rugs on this list are 100 percent waterproof, which means they're impervious to water. However, many outdoor rugs are in fact water-resistant, meaning it's more difficult for water to soak through the fibers but not impossible. These water-resistant rugs are typically made from polyester or acrylic, and while they dry quickly, they're not defined as waterproof.
Location: If you're looking for a fully waterproof outdoor rug, it can go anywhere in your outdoor space. This includes covered or non-covered patios, decks, pool areas, or even over gravel or outside an RV.
Maintenance: Waterproof outdoor rugs are easy to maintain thanks to their durable material. To clean them, sweep debris off with a broom and rinse them off with a hose or pressure washer.
Size: Always measure the area you're looking to cover before purchasing a rug so it'll fit perfectly. Don't guesstimate; you can't cut these to size.
Accessories: While many waterproof outdoor rugs are slip-resistant, others come with small stakes you can easily put in the ground if you're planning to keep this on the grass or gravel. However, if you want another layer of protection, consider adding a waterproof pad.
Beautiful Outdoor Rugs for Every Style and Need
Make your outdoor space an inviting place to lounge by adding a pretty and practical rug.
This fun, tropical, waterproof rug is made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate, also known as PET. It's OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it's made from materials that are safe for both children and pets. It's reversible, weather-resistant, and even comes with a carry bag should you want to take it camping or to the beach. Using one will save 50 plastic bottles from a landfill, too. This one comes in five sizes and additional colorways.
Another tightly braided polypropylene mat, this rug comes in two sizes in an eye-catching gray-and-cream geometric design. It's lightweight and breathable, with stain-resistant fibers. It won't hurt your grass or scratch the deck, and it can be easily rolled up and put away, too.
This UV-stable rug won't fade over time, making it perfect to put in uncovered areas of your backyard. It has heat-treated edges to prevent fraying over time and is made from plastic. Reviewers note that the pattern is elevated, but the creases where it folds stay as is.
We love the unique style of this floral mustard-yellow-and-beige rug. It's made from durable, waterproof plastic straw material that is easy to wipe down, sweep and mop. It's also slip-resistant and comes in black and green colorways.
This vibrant, stylish outdoor rug has stripes of turquoise, navy blue and teal. It's UV-resistant, so these colors will remain vibrant as long as you use the mat. Made from durable and recycled polypropylene material, it's great for high-traffic areas.
It can be challenging to find unique patterns for a waterproof outdoor rug, but this one from Latitude Run is refreshingly modern. As expected, it's made from durable, UV-resistant polypropylene. The attractive design is available in four neutral hues and will make any patio area look sleek.
This bright, cheery lime green rug is perfect for any summer get-together. It's made from recycled machine-woven plastic and acrylic, and the chic border makes it look contemporary. It's made for year-round use thanks to its weather- and UV-resistant construction.
This braided, reversible rug is made from 100 percent polypropylene that comes from recycled plastic tubes. While it's not the softest rug, it's lightweight and will repel water. It's also UV-stabilized to prevent fading and only weighs a few pounds. It cleans easily with a hose and comes in four sizes.
This summery and bright waterproof rug is unique for its scalloped edges. It'll add a fun pop of color, and it has double-lined edges that ensure the wavy shape won't fray over time. Pink not your favorite color? It comes in green, too.
A sunny, large rug that would look great in front of a pool, its contemporary style will go with a number of outdoor furniture pieces. It's stain-resistant, too, with a flat pile and polypropylene material.
