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Stringing up solar-powered lights, adding greenery, or tossing some bright cushions onto patio furniture can make a world of difference beyond your back door. So, too, can a rug—but not every pick is truly outdoor-friendly. 

Jute and sisal may naturally come to mind, but these fibers can struggle to stand up to the elements. They’re prone to staining, even from water, and tend to fade in the sun (which is why even indoors you should routinely turn or flip them over). Nylon, polyester, and acrylic, on the other hand, are undeniably sturdy. These woven synthetics may get a bad rap, but if you’re lacking storage space or live in a location that gets occasional or regular rainfall or snow, you need a material that can be easily cared for.

Fab Habitat’s recycled rugs, Shore’s silicone-made flat-weaves, and Chilewich’s waterproof, non-skid backed mats are promising, but they run a little pricey, costing anywhere between $100 and $1,000. So as soon as we came across this nearly 5-star rated, $34 checkered number on Amazon, we had to investigate. 

Kurala 5-by-8 Reversible Plastic Patio Area Rug

Green Checkerboard Plastic Outdoor Rug from Amazon
Kurala 5-by-8 Reversible Plastic Patio Area Rug, Amazon ($34)
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It’s easy to picture this muted green mat at home on most balconies or decks. Reviewers have placed it under a pergola and on front porches and patios. In addition to the on-trend palette and tonal pattern, it’s reversible, and this particular polypropylene construction is even heat treated, so the edges won’t fray as easily (a benefit if you happen to leave your rugs out all year long). Better yet, it’s also mold- and UV-resistant, which means it won’t harbor bacteria after heavy rain or melt during a summer heat wave; a Floridian buyer can confirm it’s held up just fine in the Southern state’s high temps. One comment reads, “Lovely! Came quickly, has endured several huge storms, is comfy on bare feet, and spruces up the porch.” Another shares it’s “easy to rinse off,” and several remark the color is even prettier in person. A few pose that it looks dull, but to that we say: Subtlety is in, folks.  

With all that in mind, what makes the piece particularly attractive is that it is extremely lightweight—literally just 1 pound. Chairs, a coffee table, or hefty plants are necessary to keep it in place at home; it ended up in one buyer’s pool after a strong bout of wind. But otherwise? Roll or fold it up for adventures on the go, and unfurl it in the great outdoors for backyard bonfires, picnics at the park, beach days, or dinner during that yearly camping trip to the Adirondacks. We guarantee that blanket devotees will be asking you where it’s from as soon as you sit down. Just tell them that your patio let you borrow it.