Is there anything more relaxing than a long, alfresco lunch? Think cool drinks in the shade, a gentle breeze, and nowhere to be. It’s one of our favourite pastimes, but our entertaining outdoor settings are often missing their last layer of comfort – a soft rug underfoot.
A practical and stylish rug will not only complete the setting, but they also protect bare feet from hot surfaces like pavement and tiles in the sun. Plus, they’re the fastest way to cover up a regrettable tile or paver choice, because we’ve all seen those debacles.
Natural materials like jute, in neutral or dark colours, often suit the outdoor scene best and will hide dirt well. Why not make your outdoors as cosy and stylish as indoors by adding one of these rugs to your patio, verandah or courtyard, and be prepared to spend more time out there than ever before.
To make things that bit easier for you, we’ve rounded up some of the best outdoor rugs currently on the market…
2024’s top outdoor rugs
- Mika grey flatweave rug, $299, Miss Amara (here’s why)
- Nyoma lime striped rug, $250, Olan Living (here’s why)
- Platter yellow jute rug, $640, Double (here’s why)
The best outdoor rugs of 2024
01
Mika grey braided flatweave rug
from $299, Miss Amara
In a neutral colourway with a subtle herringbone pattern, this braided flatweave rug is perfect for high-traffic areas within the home – indoor or outdoor. Choose from four different sizes to suit your space.
Key features:
- Hand braided
- Pet friendly
- Timeless design
02
Nyoma lime striped rug
from $250, Olan Living
Add some colour to your outdoor space with this sage and cream-striped rug from Olan. The trendy striped pattern creates a modern look to your outdoor space yet still feels timeless.
Key features:
- Can be used both indoors and outdoor
- Easy to clean
- Soft to the touch yet ultra durable
03
Platter yellow jute rug
from $640, Double
Bold and contemporary, this rug from Double is the ultimate statement piece for your outdoor patio this summer. Plus, like all rugs from Double, this one is machine washable for easy maintenance.
Key features:
- Machine washable
- Interchangeable designs
- Weatherproof
- Made for indoor and outdoor use
04
San Juan recycled rug
from $99, Myer
Made of recycled woven straw, this bold outdoor rug features a blue, almost-tile-like Mediterranean print that’s perfect for making a statement. Reversibility and the potential to use both indoors and outdoors lend it a gorgeous versatility.
Key features:
- Reversible design
- Lightweight at three kilograms
- Weather-proof
05
Jaipur European outdoor rug
from $745, Olan Living
If you love the elegance of a classic Turkish rug for your outdoor space but are concerned about durability then this 100 per cent polypropylene rug provides that aesthetic without the worry.
Key features:
- Soft natural-fibre feel
- Easy cleaning
06
Checker jute rug
from $549, James Lane
With a distinctive checkered pattern, this beautiful textured rug will complement any outdoor setting.
Key features:
- Textural feel
- Handmade from 100 per cent jute
- Available in a range of sizes
07
Helden weave rug
from $1449, Myer
Made from 100 per cent recycled PET fibre, this neutral-hued rug features balanced clean lines so you can incorporate it indoors or outdoors, depending on your mood. Plus, as it’s made from recycled water bottles, this rug is great for your home and the planet.
Key features:
- Eco-friendly fibre
- Soft touch
- Can be used indoors and outdoor
08
Olives olive jute rug
from $350, Double
Make a playful statement with this round outdoor rug from Double. Featuring a fun olive print that’ll inspire your next Friday afternoon drink or charcuterie board, it’s perfect under a cosy outdoor dining or lounge setting.
Key features:
- Weather-proof
- Can be used indoors and outdoor
- Machine washable
09
Taupe Seaforth indoor/outdoor rug
from $99, Temple & Webster
This rug from Temple & Webster features a distressed finish for a natural lived-in look from day one. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it makes for a versatile piece to add to your collection.
Key features:
- Can be used indoors and outdoor
- Shedproof and anti-static
- 12-month warranty
10
Kali striped rug
from $839 (was $1199), Miss Amara
Pet-friendly, eco-friendly, stain-resistant and easy to maintain – what more could you ask for? This rug comes in various sizes to suit your outdoor space, plus its handwoven tribal-inspired design makes it a perfect contender for coastal and Scandi homes.
Key features:
- Free shipping
- Handwoven in India
- Flatweave rug with no-slip backing
11
Mika oval rug
from $249, Miss Amara
Timeless and versatile, this braided grey rug from Miss Amara is hard-wearing making it perfect for the outdoors. Handmade by skilled artisans, simply place this by an outdoor fireplace or under a coffee table to bring any outdoor setting together.
Key features:
- Pet-friendly and stain-resistant
- Handmade
What type of outdoor rug is the most durable?
For optimal durability in outdoor rugs, opt for materials like polypropylene or nylon, known for their resilience against weather elements and heavy foot traffic. Look for rugs with synthetic backings for added strength, or consider recycled plastic options for enhanced water and fade resistance. Outdoor carpet tiles are also a durable choice. Regular maintenance is the key to prolonging the lifespan of any outdoor rug.