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Looking for the best non toxic outdoor rugs for your patio? It’s no secret that most rugs are treated with harsh chemicals to repel water and stains.
While they do exactly what they promise, the stain-resistant, antimicrobial, and moth-proofing benefits come with huge environmental costs.
As the Environmental Working Group points out, some of the most widely-used carpet chemicals have been identified as likely carcinogens, and are associated with birth defects and hormone disruption.
Not to mention the hundreds of years it takes for most plastic materials to degrade naturally in landfills.
We reviewed and ranked 9 amazing eco-friendly outdoor rugs from sustainable brands that are completely free from harmful chemicals.
They come in a variety of designs, from bold and colorful to chic and neutral, so you can find the perfect one to match your outdoor decor.
P.S. For more amazing options, check out these sustainable outdoor furniture brands.
Top Sustainable Brands for Eco-Friendly & Non-Toxic Outdoor Rugs
We all know the magic an indoor rug can bring to a room. It can transform a space, making it cozy, stylish, and inviting. But when it comes to sustainable outdoor rugs, they often get overlooked.
No matter the design or size, outdoor rugs can easily create a sense of structure and can make your outdoor space feel like a cozy, well-designed extension of your home.
Plus, they will protect your deck or patio from wear and tear and make any outdoor space feel like a stylish retreat.
But, I get it – finding environmentally friendly outdoor rugs that can handle all the elements and every little sudden accident is not easy.
Especially if you have furry friends or little kids who have a habit of turning your rugs into their playground.
We did all the research to find the most durable, non-toxic outdoor rugs on the eco market for you and your lively family.
My best advice is to opt for a recycled plastic outdoor rug that is highly resistant to stains and shading, easy to clean, and designed to withstand UV rays and sudden spills.
Based on your budget, you can find a ton of options – including washable outdoor rugs. Check out our list below and let’s create a cozy, inviting vibe that’s perfect for everything from morning coffee to evening hangouts with friends.
Do outdoor rugs have chemicals?
Yes, like many other textiles, outdoor rugs have chemicals to enhance their durability, make them resistant to stains, and protect against UV damage.
Polyester & Nylon
Most outdoor rugs are made of polyester or Nylon – cheap, options that are resistant to fading and moisture. However, despite its qualities, poly comes with a heavy environmental cost.
The production of polyester involves chemical processes that use ethylene glycol and dimethyl terephthalate. Nylon is not better. The manufacture of nylon requires polymerization of hexamethylene diamine and adipic acid, which produces nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. Tons of harmful emissions and pollutants are released because of that.
Additionally, like polypropylene, polyester rugs often contain added chemicals for UV protection and stain resistance, which can also release VOCs.
Another huge downside is that polyester-based textiles take hundreds of years to decompose naturally. In the meantime, it sits there in the landfill, polluting marine bodies and harming the environment.
UV Stabilizers & Protectants
UV stabilizers and protectants are added to protect the rug from UV radiation, preventing fading and degradation from sun exposure.
While UV stabilizers help extend the life of the rug, some can release VOCs and other harmful chemicals into the environment. That’s why we solely opt for UV protectants that are labeled as non-toxic or low-VOC to mitigate these risks.
Antimicrobial Treatments
Most outdoor rugs are also “drenched” in antimicrobial treatments to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
However, agents like triclosan and triclocarban can be harmful to both health and the environment. They can contribute to antibiotic resistance and have been associated with endocrine disruption and other health problems. Additionally, they can leach into waterways, affecting aquatic ecosystems.
Flame Retardants
Just like in mattresses, and clothing, flame retardants are added to rug materials to reduce flammability and meet fire safety standards.
The issue is that many flame retardants, particularly those containing brominated or chlorinated chemicals, can be harmful.
They have been linked to various health issues, including endocrine disruption, neurological impairments, and cancer. They can also persist in the environment, accumulating in wildlife and humans over time.
What is the best and safest outdoor rug material?
If you want to keep yourself, your family, and our Earth safe, make sure to opt for non-toxic outdoor rugs made from some of the below materials.
Recycled Plastic PET
Rugs made from recycled plastic bottles (PET) are an excellent eco-friendly option for outdoor spaces.
These rugs help reduce plastic waste by repurposing bottles that would otherwise end up in landfills or oceans. Brands like Weaver Green have managed to recycle over 260 million plastic bottles which is a huge plus.
Plus, plastic recycling saves between 30% and 80% of the carbon emissions associated with virgin plastic. They are highly durable and able to withstand heavy foot traffic and various weather conditions, including rain and intense sunlight.
Recycled plastic outdoor rugs are also water-resistant and often UV-treated, ensuring they maintain their color and integrity over time.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is one of the most popular materials for outdoor rugs due to its durability and versatility.
These rugs can handle all kinds of weather, from scorching sun to heavy rain, without fading or getting damaged. Polypropylene is resistant to stains, moisture, and mildew which makes it perfect for areas prone to spills.
According to many studies, polypropylene is considered the safest of all plastics. But, to make sure that your eco-friendly outdoor rugs are truly non-toxic, verify that the products bear the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification.
Natural Materials Like Fique, Sisal, Jute & Bamboo
Granted, it’s not very common to find natural and organic outdoor rugs because these materials are not weather resistant and don’t handle heavy foot traffic as well as recycled plastic or polypropylene.
That’s why these rugs are best used in covered outdoor spaces to protect them from excessive moisture and direct sunlight. We love them because they are biodegradable and sustainably harvested – not to mention their beautiful earthy, natural aesthetic.
9 Best Non-Toxic Outdoor Rugs From Sustainable Brands:
1. Ruggable
While most eco-friendly outdoor rugs on this list are high-performing and of amazing quality, there is one missing thing. They are not washable!
Ruggable is here to change that by creating modern, washable outdoor rugs for every aesthetic.
From bold and boho to earthy, or playful pop styles and even coastal-inspired designs.
The rugs can easily fit in a regular-size washing machine. No worries, they won’t shed or fray like other materials.
Based on dozens of 5-star reviewers, these are the best nontoxic outdoor rugs for your patio, porch, deck, or other outside space because they are built to resist color fading and mold growth.
Plus, most options are consciously made to reduce waste. All you have to do is pick your favorite rug pad and voila!
Price: $129-$829
Materials: Post-consumer recycled materials
Notable Features: Machine washable, fade, mold & stain resistant, made-to-order
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
Our Top Picks from Ruggable:
2. Safavieh
Safavieh is the mecca of bright and cheerful colors that can light up every patio and garden!
The main material is oeko-tex standard 100 polypropylene, which is considered one of the safest plastics.
The FDA has approved its use as a food container material, so it’s OK to use in your home.
You can find dozens of different patterns and hues to match your aesthetic.
Graphic art, full sceneries, botanical prints – seriously, the options are endless.
All rugs are pet-friendly, child-friendly, and very resistant to shedding, which is a huge plus.
Price: $25.98-$648
Materials: OEKO-TEX® Certified polypropylene
Notable Features: OEKO-TEX® Certified, shed resistant, pet & kid-friendly
Location/Shipping: Worldwide
Our Top Picks from Safavieh:
3. Weaver Green UK
Just like Ruggable, Weaver Green also offers a gorgeous collection of machine-washable outdoor rugs made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles and non-toxic dyes.
Over the last three years, the company has managed to recycle over 260 million plastic bottles – mindblowing, I know!
You can find an array of extra tough kilims and dhurrie-style flatweaves, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Think of geometrical rugs, diamond rugs, as well as Scandinavian, monochrome, and herringbone designs.
What makes them so coveted? All recycled plastic outdoor rugs are soft like wool yet stain-resistant, machine washable, and fully recyclable.
To top it all off, these flat-woven rugs are perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, as well as places susceptible to heeled shoes, animal claws, and toys.
Price: £55-£290
Materials: 100% recycled plastic
Notable Features: Machine washable, stain, moth, water & mold resistant, UV stable, pet-friendly
Location/Shipping: United Kingdom, ships to Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey
Our Top Picks from Weaver Green:
4. Loomy
We love Loomy’s sustainable outdoor rugs because they are equal parts healthy and extremely stylish – AND feel like real wool, too!
The entire line, which is ideal for both outdoor and indoor, is made from 100% recycled PET and is UV-treated to resist fading.
They’re also water-resistant and highly resistant to stains, making them a stellar choice for high-traffic areas or outdoor gatherings where fluffy paws are involved.
And when it comes to cleaning, it couldn’t be easier—just hose them off, and they’re good as new!
What’s more, Lommy’s rugs are made by the hands of skilled artisan weavers using an ancient technique that is directly tied to a loom.
For this reason, it usually takes over 15 days to complete to perfection.
So, whether you’re looking to enhance your patio, deck, or any indoor space.
Need something completely unique to you and your aesthetic?
The brand will help you create custom recycled plastic outdoor rugs from scratch based on your vision.
Price: $348-$648
Materials: 100% recycled PET
Notable Features: Handmade ethically, recycled materials, dyed using low-impact techniques, UV fade, water, stain & shed resistant, pet friendly
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
5. Burrow
The beloved non-toxic furniture brand Burrow aims to outfit your patio with the coziest and environmentally friendly outdoor rugs.
Both available styles are ethically handmade in India from 100% recycled polyester.
This means that the high-pile rugs are designed to minimize shedding from day one, are completely puppy-proof, and won’t absorb liquids.
The best part? This partnership not only results in superior rugs but also supports a sustainable and ethical economy and provides high standards for working conditions in rural areas.
Plus, because they are so soft and chic, you can easily use these sustainable outdoor rugs as indoor rugs too to protect and decorate all high-traffic areas.
Price: $199-$829
Materials: 100% recycled polyester
Notable Features: Ethically hand-woven in India, recycled materials, stain resistant, ant-shedding
Location/Shipping: United States
6. Birch Lane
The raved-about eco-friendly furniture company Birch Lane offers sustainable outdoor rugs in 17 different sizes, all made from OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 polypropylene plastic.
As we previously mentioned, this material is extremely durable and stain-resistant, which means that your busy household just found its perfect match.
Depending on the size you choose, you can use it to beautify your living room, patio, or entryway.
We have an affinity for beige and aqua because these colors can easily match every aesthetic with ease. They are so subtle yet so darn stylish!
Price: $35-$689
Materials: OEKO-TEX® Certified polypropylene plastic
Notable Features: OEKO-TEX® Certified, hand-woven, stain-resistant
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
7. Nordic Knots
As the name suggests, Nordic Knots is the perfect digital place to find the best non toxic outdoor rugs for minimalists.
Contemporary design with a timeless Scandinavian sensibility. What more do we need?
Take your pick from the 3 different available designs – Acre, Terra, and Terra 2.
The company works with skilled Indian artists who know how to weave natural abaca and recycled PET rugs to perfection.
What makes them so good? The rugs are Goodweave™ Certified – aka the best assurance that textile products are made without child and forced labor.
Granted, they are an investment, but the durability, sustainability, and beautiful texture are definitely worth it.
Price: $595-41395
Materials: Natural abaca, recycled PET
Notable Features: Goodweave™ Certified, handmade in small batches, designed in Stockholm, & handmade in Bhadohi, India, weather resistant
Location/Shipping: Sweden, ships worldwide
8. Fhygge
If you are looking for environmentally friendly outdoor rugs, Fhygge offers some fantastic soft and plush texture options made from recycled plastic.
This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, such as in patios, decks, or high-traffic areas.
I love them because they have weather-resistant properties and are UV-resistant, which means they won’t fade easily when exposed to sunlight.
Depending on your style, you can opt for recycled plastic outdoor rugs with bold botanical prints or take the minimalist route with a classic, gray option.
Price: €43-€435
Materials: 100% recycled PET & vegetable dyes
Notable Features: Hand-woven, durable, water & UV resistant, easy to clean, pet & kid friendly
Location/Shipping: Spain, ships worldwide
9. Zuahaza
Zuahaza is a top destination for sustainable home goods – Whether you’re looking for decorative pillows and tassel cushions, luxurious throw blankets, organic table linens, stylish tabletops, or storage baskets.
The collection of stylish and sustainable outdoor rugs might not be as big as other brands, but they are equally as durable and consciously made.
These rugs are ethically handmade by skilled artisans in Colombia using sustainable materials like fique, a remarkable fiber from the agave plant family, and fair trade practices.
It’s not an easy process. On the contrary, most natural outdoor rugs are produced using a vertical loom, they hand-knot each rug over two weeks.
To top it all off, the rugs are in a standard medium size, but they also offer custom sizing to suit your specific needs.
Price: $144-$690
Materials: 100% natural fique fiber, 100% natural palm fiber
Notable Features: Handmade by an artisan family in the town of Curití, Colombia, fair trade, made-to-order
Location/Shipping: Colombia, ships worldwide
How to clean and care for your non-toxic outdoor rugs?
Firstly, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any remaining dirt and dust from the rug’s surface. If you do that regularly, you’ll help prevent dirt from getting around into the fibers and keep your rug looking its best.
For small spills and stains, spot clean it with a damp cloth and a mild detergent solution. Just make sure to avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push it further into the fibers.
Once or twice a year, depending on use, give your outdoor rug a thorough cleaning by hosing it down with water. Lay the rug flat on a clean surface and use a garden hose to spray it down, starting from one end and working your way to the other. If you own a washable outdoor rug, all you have to do is throw it in the washing machine.
When your rug is clean, air dry it completely before placing it back. Hang it over a railing or lay it flat in a sunny spot to speed up the drying process. Avoid folding or rolling the rug while it’s still damp, as this can encourage mold and mildew growth.
This was your full guide to the best non toxic outdoor rugs!
We hope you find a fantastic eco-friendly outdoor rug to make your patio feel like a cozy, well-designed extension of your home.
The best non-toxic outdoor rugs of 2024 can easily protect your outdoor flooring from the elements and wear and tear, just like indoor rugs do for your hardwood or carpeted floors.
Plus, unlike the thousands of chemical-packed options out there, these rugs don’t come with added flame retardants, stain repellents, and antimicrobial treatments that can release harmful chemicals.
My personal favorite choice will always be recycled plastic outdoor rugs, but you can opt for natural options as well – if your patio is covered.
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