Latest news with #practical
Forbes
09-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Best Outdoor Rugs To Upgrade Your Patio, Deck Or Porch
The best outdoor rugs are both practical and stylish, enhancing your outdoor space while offering comfort and heat protection. Finding the right one can be daunting, as you need to consider style, durability and comfort all at once. In 2025, our top pick is Frontgate's Britta Indoor/Outdoor Rug, which features UV protection and stain resistance that's designed to last for many al fresco dinners to come. The best outdoor rugs are both attractive and functional, able to remain durable despite outdoor ... More exposure. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS 'Outdoor rugs can inject color, pattern and texture, which can elevate the aesthetic and vibe,' says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors. 'It also shields hardscape from overheating in direct sunlight and as a result, it can protect bare feet during hot weather months.' Read on for our top picks of the best outdoor rugs to elevate your backyard in 2025. Sizes: 5.3 x 7.6 feet, 8 x 10 feet | Material: 100% polypropylene | Thickness: 0.25-inch | UV-resistant: Yes | Care: Vacuum regularly; hose clean as needed | Colors: 3 options available Pros: Made from durable fabric UV-resistant Easy upkeep Cons: Only three colors and two sizes to choose from This eye-catching outdoor rug is crafted from durable polypropylene, a material Jones recommends for its longevity, especially in outdoor settings. The fabric is UV-resistant and colorfast, ensuring the bright colors stay vibrant even when exposed to the elements. Upkeep is easy with this rug, too: Regular vacuuming and hosing it down to air dry as needed is all it takes (no professional cleaning required). Owners rave about the rug's comfortable texture and its durability, as well as its ability to elevate any space, indoors or out. The downside: It's available in just three colorways and two size options, which may not suit every outdoor space's aesthetic. Sizes: 23 options | Material: Polypropylene | Thickness: 0.25-inch | UV-resistant: No | Care: Hose clean as needed | Colors: 16 options available Pros: Wide variety of color options Hose wash and air dry Comfortable texture Cons: Recommended to be brought inside during extreme weather Adding color and texture to your outdoor space doesn't have to be costly. This Nourison area rug is made from durable polypropylene, making it easy to hose down and air dry for regular cleaning. The soft cut pile over a flat-weave creates a cozy feel and adds texture to any space. With a wide variety of colors and sizes from classic black and white to vibrant multicolor options, this rug complements any indoor or outdoor setting. Owners rave about its ability to transform both bedrooms and patios. Note that, though designed for outdoor use, the rug is not UV-resistant. The brand recommends bringing it indoors during extreme weather to prolong its lifespan. Sizes: 2 feet x 3 feet 7 inches, 7 feet six 6 inches x 10 feet 9 inches, round 7 feet 6 inches| Material: Polypropylene | Thickness: Not listed | UV-resistant: Yes | Care: Vacuum/sweep regularly; hose clean as needed | Colors: 5 options available Pros: Water-resistant material Round and rectangle size options Easy to clean Cons: If you live in a particularly wet climate and don't want to constantly move your rug in and out of the house, the Leja Flatwoven Outdoor Rug is a great choice. Made from 100% fiber-enhanced Courtron polypropylene, it resists water, mold and mildew. It's also UV-resistant, making it ideal for both sunny and shaded outdoor areas. Available in both round and rectangular options of various sizes, the rug comes in a range of attractive, neutral colors to complement any space. Reviewers praise its durability against harsh outdoor elements and its easy maintenance. However, some note its thin build and recommend using a pad underneath for added comfort. Sizes: 5 options | Material: Polyester with a polyurethane water-resistant barrier | Thickness: 0.125-inch | UV-resistant: Yes | Care: Sweep, hose clean or machine wash | Colors: Charcoal, sage Pros: Machine washable Stylish design Nonslip grip underneath Cons: If you don't want to haul out your hose every time it's time to clean your outdoor rug, consider a washable option from Ruggable. This rug features a modern, eye-catching design available in two colors and five sizes. Made from recycled polyester with a polyurethane barrier, it resists mold, mildew and other weather-related issues. It also has a nonslip grip at the bottom to keep it in place and protect the floor underneath. (Though suited for indoor use as well, the brand recommends layering it on a rug pad indoors.) This rug is also machine-washable, like Ruggable's other flagship offerings. The brand suggests washing it on a cold water cycle and laying it flat to air dry. Sizes: 2 x 3 feet, 5 x 8 feet, 8 x 10 feet, 9 x 12 feet, 10 x 14 feet | Material: 100% polyester | Thickness: 0.5-inch | UV-resistant: No | Care: Vacuum regularly; professional cleaning as needed | Colors: 4 options available Pros: Thick, comfortable material Made from recycled materials Classic, attractive design Cons: Not recommended in areas prone to excessive moisture Concrete patios often benefit from a plush, thicker-than-average outdoor rug that adds a more homey feel to the space. This Pottery Barn rug features a soft fabric, thicker than most outdoor rugs at half an inch thick. Made from recycled polyester (a material Jones recommends for outdoor rugs), it's sourced from up to 1,260 single-use plastic bottles, making it both durable and sustainable. The rug also has an elevated look, available in four neutral shades that complement virtually any patio furniture. The only downsides are the brand's advice to keep it away from excessive moisture, and the recommendation for professional cleaning to maintain its longevity. Sizes: 12 options | Material: Polypropylene | Thickness: 0.25-inch | UV-resistant: Yes | Care: Vacuum regularly; hose clean or bleach as needed | Colors: 9 options available Pros: Resistant to UV rays and weather Dries quickly Variety of colors to choose from Cons: If you're looking to spruce up your deck, it's important to choose an outdoor rug that dries quickly and won't fade from sun exposure. This rug checks both boxes with its UV-treated polypropylene fabric, which is water-resistant and quick-drying. The brand highlights it as a great fit for uncovered decks and poolside patios due to its durability, even in wet and sun-soaked conditions. The rug also offers several attractive design options, available in both solid colors and patterns to suit a variety of aesthetics. It comes in 12 size options, perfect for anything from small front porches to large patios. Owners praise its soft feel, easy maintenance and ability to withstand various weather conditions. However, some have reported that the fabric may start to pull apart over time. Sizes: 7 options | Material: Recycled polyester | Thickness: 0.5-inch | UV-resistant: No | Care: Vacuum regularly; hose clean as needed | Colors: Coastal blue, natural Pros: Stylish design Plush feeling underfoot Stain resistant Cons: Requires covered, protected area With the luxury of a covered porch, you can opt for a more plush, stylish outdoor rug, as it won't be directly exposed to sunlight or wet weather. This rug features a soft texture from high-pile handwoven polyester fibers, offering a luxe feel underfoot. The diamond-shaped pattern is available in two colors and several size options to complement a variety of covered outdoor spaces. However, keep in mind that this rug isn't designed to be as durable as others on this list. The brand recommends placing it in a covered area with minimal foot or pet traffic to prevent snagging. It's also advised to bring it indoors during inclement weather. Regular cleaning is easy with a simple hose-down. The home team at Forbes Vetted is dedicated to providing the very best recommendations for your home. We've extensively tested and reviewed a myriad of outdoor products, from outdoor sectionals to patio umbrellas. Monica Petrucci is the author of this article and a commerce writer covering home topics at Forbes Vetted. She has tested and reviewed hundreds of products over the years, from pressure washers to flat-top grills. We interviewed Jennifer Jones for this article, founder and principal designer at Niche Interiors. Jones provided insight on the benefit of outdoor rugs, how to take care of them and which materials to prioritize for longevity. The Forbes Vetted team is committed to providing only the most relevant information to our readers, performing regular article updates as needed. This article was last updated in August 2025. We evaluated several of the top picks at popular retailers, comparing design elements, specs and customization options to deliver a comprehensive list of the best outdoor rugs. We took expert recommendations from Jones to help shape our decision-making process, prioritizing rugs made from her recommended materials and with tighter woven fabric. A great outdoor rug is defined by its durability, so we looked for features like UV-resistant and mold-resistant finishes in order to recommend rugs designed to maintain their structure—both in rain and shine. We scoured through consumer reviews, looking out for any common issues reported over months and years, and making note of minor issues that consumers should consider. We took owner feedback into account, including rugs only with a 4.5-star rating or higher. Investing in an outdoor rug to transform your patio or deck aesthetic is a big decision. Luckily, there are some key features to keep in mind to help you make the right choice. Materials Jones recommends opting for a synthetic fiber when shopping for an outdoor rug, like polypropylene, polyester and nylon. 'These materials can endure the elements better than natural materials, and [they can] sometimes be bleached for ease of cleaning and disinfecting,' she says. Also, look to see how the colors of the rug are designed. 'If the color or design of a rug is silk-screened or printed on top of the fibers, you can expect that ink to erode with time,' Jones says. 'Synthetic fibers have the color built into the yarns which helps increase color fastness.' Construction Consider both your comfort preference and your outdoor space's exposure to the elements when deciding on outdoor rug constructions. Flat-weaves are known for being quick-drying and more resistant to wear-and-tear from outdoor elements, but they're less comfortable to walk on. Low- or high-pile rugs, on the other hand, provide that plush comfort, but are better suited to covered areas. Jones also recommends looking for tighter woven fabrics over open weaves, saying 'Loose woven rugs can easily fray and come apart.' You should also consider the edges and backing of the rug, as those that are tightly made could prevent fraying over time. Size Most outdoor rugs are available in a wide range of size options. Consider your outdoor area and make sure to leave some open space around the rug for the best layout. Also consider shape here—round rugs look great on square patios, and vice versa. Care And Upkeep Most outdoor rugs can be hosed down and air dried for regular cleaning and upkeep. But some are even easier to clean, thanks to machine washable properties, while others require professional cleaning. Make sure to read through manufacturer instructions and consider how much work you're willing to put in to keep your outdoor rug clean. What Type Of Outdoor Rug Is Best? It's important to look at an outdoor rug's material to gauge its quality and longevity. 'Synthetic fibers like polypropylene, polyester or nylon are great materials for outdoor rugs because the color fastness is extruded into the fibers, they are water-resistant and quick drying,' Jones says. Can Outdoor Rugs Be Left Outside In The Rain? According to Jones, you can temporarily leave an outdoor rug in the rain. 'But after prolong exposure to heavy rain or standing water, water can get trapped underneath and mold/mildew can form,' she says. 'This can lead to discoloration and odors on the rug as well as damage to the flooring underneath.' Some outdoor rugs are designed to be more resistant to water than others, to be sure to read through manufacturer directions. Do You Need A Pad Under An Outdoor Rug? Yes, in most cases it's recommended to layer an outdoor rug on a pad in order to keep it in place and avoid damage to the floor underneath. Some outdoor rugs have pads built-in, so make sure to read through instructions ahead of time.
Globe and Mail
26-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Your daily horoscope: July 26, 2025
The more challenging the goals you set yourself for the coming year the more you will enjoy life when it all comes together and you reach levels you thought were beyond you. Why settle for a limited share of success when you can have it all? The sun in your fellow fire sign of Leo at this time of year means there are precious few things you cannot accomplish, so the responsibility is on you to aim high and do something creative this weekend. Don't give less than 100 per cent. You may not want to forgive a so-called friend for what they recently said about you but it is actually the best move by far. The last thing you need now is to be wasting time and energy on petty vendettas. Get past it and move on. This is potentially one of the most enjoyable phases of the year for you, so don't sit at home in front of the TV, get out into the world and make some waves. It is also the perfect time to make travel plans for later in the year. Before you splash a significant amount of cash on something you've had your eye on for some time you need to ask yourself two questions: Do I really need it and can I really afford it? The answer to both questions is almost certainly 'no'. The more time you spend with people who inspire you this weekend the more likely it is you will come up with productive ideas of your own. Don't look back at the old ways of doing things, look ahead and be a leader for change. The fact that you are such a practical person gives you a big advantage over some of your more woolly-minded rivals. While they are held back by wishful thinking this weekend you will be moving ahead of them in leaps and bounds. The message of the stars this weekend is that you need to rise above incidents that enrage you. The world may be unfair but there is no point getting worked up about matters that you cannot possibly change. Aim to change yourself for the better instead. A bit of sweet talk will open a lot of doors over the next 48 hours, so lay it on thick and don't worry that you may be overdoing it. The people you will be dealing with are too stupid to realize they are being shamelessly flattered. If you feel the urge to get away from your usual environment then pack an overnight bag and hit the road. You are rarely happier than when on the move and what you see and who you meet on your journey will surely delight you. A clash of wills on the work front could result in a serious falling out over the next 48 hours. Do your utmost to make sure you are on the winning side, because the planets warn there will be no prizes for coming a brave second. You may not be the most touchy-feely member of the zodiac but if you reach out to someone this weekend they will respond in kind and a strong bond will be formed between you – a partnership of equals that can never be broken. You have wasted too much time on trivial matters in recent days and must now move on to activities that bring clear rewards. Ignore those who say that making a profit is in some way immoral – they have no idea what they are talking about. Discover more about yourself at
SBS Australia
18-07-2025
- General
- SBS Australia
Latest News SBS Audio Program Bahasa Indonesia — Friday 18 Jul 2025
Independent news and stories connecting you to life in Australia and Indonesian-speaking Australians. Ease into the English language and Australian culture. We make learning English convenient, fun and practical.
CTV News
13-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
17 Practical, Handy Amazon Canada Products That You'll Be Happy You Ordered
Useful finds for your home, handbag, pet, and beyond. If you're on the hunt for useful products that'll make your life easier without emptying your savings account, we're here to help. We've dug deep into Amazon Canada to find things that are equal parts practical and affordable. Whether you need to cure a bug bite, help your plants grow, or prep your salad, we've got your back. Here are a few useful Amazon home products worth adding to your cart: Sign up for an Amazon Prime account if Amazon Canada is your go-to site for shopping. It costs $99 a year (plus tax), but students can get it for only $49 (plus tax). If you've never tried it out, you can sign up for a 30-day trial period. I Tried The Internet's Favourite Cleaning Product, And Yes, It's All It's Cracked Up To Be The Absolute Best Laundry Drying Racks You Can Get In Canada Right Now 18 Handy Amazon Canada Products That'll Help You Save Some Money Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We'll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes.
CNN
10-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
Practical Father's Day gifts your dad will actually use
Practical Father's Day gifts your dad will actually use Dads can be hard to shop for — especially when they already buy themselves exactly what they need and want. That's why practical gifts are a great choice for Father's Day. They're useful, thoughtful and can make his life a little easier. With help and advice from real dads, we've picked out gifts he'll actually use and appreciate. Here are 5 practical Father's Day gifts that will make his day this year.
