Outdoor Rug Care

Before you start the process of cleaning any area rug, read the care instructions carefully. Each manufacturer will have their own instructions for cleaning the rug based on the materials and the construction. Vacuuming the rug regularly will help prevent dirt and debris from settling and give mold and moss less time to grow.

If the rug is not already in an area with a slope or some form of drainage, consider moving it to an area, such as a driveway. In a bucket, combine a little liquid dish soap and warm water to create a sudsy solution that will cut the grease. Use the solution, along with a soft bristle cleaning brush, to scrub the area rug.

Start scrubbing lightly to prevent any damage to the fibers of the area rug. It is always a good idea to test the cleaning method in a corner of the rug before doing the entire surface. When finished, hose down the area rug until there is no more soap, and the water runs clear.

After you have washed the rug, do another inspection for any stubborn stains the soap and water didn’t tackle. For those areas, use a direct application of mild detergent, such as dish soap. You can also use rug cleaners and laundry stain removers. Make sure to test any solutions you use in an inconspicuous spot (such as the underside of the rug) before using them to make sure it doesn’t strip any color.

If you are noticing moss, mildew or mold growing on your rug, make an eco-friendly solution of one-part white vinegar diluted with three-parts water. Add baking soda to the stained area and rinse it with the vinegar solution. The vinegar interacts with the baking soda to create a bubbling solution that fights the growth.

To dry an outdoor rug after cleaning it, or to quickly dry it after a heavy downpour, simply place the rug in in a sunny area. Test the top of the rug to see if it's dried and, if so, flip the rug over to dry the reverse side.

When laying down your area rug, consider adding a rug pad with an open weave design beneath the rug. Not only will it help prevent the rug from slipping, but the holes in the design also allow for proper air circulation. Make sure to choose a rug pad approved for outdoor use. If it gets dirty, simply hose it off when you are cleaning your area rug.

Tip: Outdoor rugs are designed to weather the elements and should not shrink after getting wet in the way some indoor rugs can.

Keeping your outdoor area rug looking like new for longer is all about proper maintenance. With the right care and storage between uses, an outdoor rug can last for many years.

• Any time you see severe rain coming, roll up the area rug and store it in a dry place, such as the garage. Adding a gazebo or pergola over your outdoor space will help protect your area rug from the elements.
• If your area is exposed, sweep or use a leaf blower regularly to rid the rug of any fallen leaves and flowers. This will prevent them from staining your rug.
• Keeping a vacuum handy is also beneficial, especially in lanais and transitional spaces.
• Whether you purchase a natural outdoor rug or a synthetic outdoor rug, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for care first.