Area rugs and carpets bring a fashionable touch to any room; however, it’s crucial to keep them clean to preserve their look and durability.

The following instructions will help you keep your indoor our outdoor rugs and carpets clean and welcoming.

What Are Indoor/Outdoor Rugs?

Having rugs that can be used both inside and outside is ideal for different weather conditions and settings!

Unlike traditional rugs that need more care and protection from spills and dirt traffic outdoors are made of sturdy materials like polypropylene or nylon that are resistant to fading and mildew.

They’re perfect for areas like patios or entryways, where there’s a lot of coming and going!

Why is it Necessary to Clean Them?

It’s really important to keep your outdoor rugs clean for several reasons. As time goes by, dirt and stains build up, can create bad smells, and make your rug look worn out over time.

Outdoor rugs have to deal with rain and leaves, which can add to the dirt buildup. Cleaning them regularly doesn’t just make them look better but also helps them longer by avoiding damage from use.

How frequently do you recommend cleaning outdoor rugs?

The frequency at which you need to clean a rug varies based on factors such as where it is placed and how often it’s used.

High-Traffic Areas: It is important to clean rugs in high-traffic areas like entryways or living rooms every 1 to 2 months in order to keep them fresh and clean.

Low-Traffic Areas: Rugs located in low-traffic areas should be cleaned every 6 to 12 months to keep them fresh and clean.

Outdoor Rugs: Outdoor rugs should be frequently cleaned to prevent the buildup of dirt and mildew accumulation when they are exposed to the elements.

Essential Supplies for Washing Indoor and Outdoor Rugs

Before you begin the task at hand, make sure you have all the tools and supplies. Here’s a brief list to help you get started:

Broom or vacuum cleaner (with a beater bar or a brush attachment)
Garden hose or bucket of water
Mild dish soap or a rug cleaner (specific for synthetic materials)
Soft-bristle scrub brush
Squeegee or wet/dry vacuum
Towels or a clothesline for drying
Optional: Rug protectant spray to prevent future stains and fading

Steps on How to Clean Indoor and Outdoor Rugs

Here are easy steps to keep your rugs looking fresh and clean.

Step 1: Shake or Vacuum the Rug

Begin by clearing any scattered dirt and debris.

Remove the rug outside if it’s manageable in size, and shake it well to release any accumulated dust and dirt stuck in the threads.

If you’re dealing with larger rugs, vacuum both sides thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a beater bar or a brush attachment.

This process will effectively eliminate surface dirt before proceeding with a cleaning routine.

Step 2: Rinse the Rug with Water

When you’re cleaning a rug outdoors, place it flat on a surface, like a driveway or deck.

Thoroughly rinse both sides of the rug with a garden hose to clean it. If you don’t have a hose handy, using a bucket of water will do the job.

The key is to soak the rug well so that any dirt trapped inside loosens up making it simpler to give it a cleaning.

Step 3: Use a Cleaning Solution

Blend a bit of soap with water, or try a dedicated rug cleaner for the task at hand. Spread this solution over the rug while focusing more on spots that are stained or particularly dirty.

When dealing with outdoor rugs, pick cleaners tailored for battling mildew and outdoor dirt, as they tend to work more than typical household cleaners.

Step 4: Cleaning the Carpet

Gently brush the rug in a circular motion using a bristle brush, and pay attention to cleaning both sides thoroughly in case of heavy dirt accumulation.

Avoid scrubbing too hard, especially for rugs made of natural fibers such as jute, as they might wear out quickly. Concentrate on areas with frequent use and any visible stains you spot.

Step 5: Rinse and Get Rid of Any Excess Water

After you finish cleaning the rug, wash it with your garden hose or a bucket of water to eliminate all soap residue completely.

Next, use a squeegee to remove any excess water and prevent the growth of mildew when drying outside.

Step 6: Make Sure to Dry the Rug

It’s important to ensure the rug is completely dry before putting it in its place by hanging it over a clothesline or laying it out on a railing or some chairs for drying purposes instead of exposing it directly to sunlight for long periods, which might lead to fading issues, particularly with synthetic fabrics.

Step 7: Apply a Rug Protectant

After the rug has dried completely, think about using a protectant spray to shield it from future stains and fading.

This step isn’t mandatory, but it’s an idea, especially for rugs that face outdoor conditions or are put in busy spots.

These sprays form a coating that resists water and stops dirt from clinging to the threads.

Top Picks Cleaning Products

Here are a few suggestions for products that can enhance the efficiency of cleaning your rug:

Bissell Professional Pet Stain and Odor Remover

Looking for a cleaner to tackle pet stains and odors? Check out the Bissell Professional Pet Stain and Odor Remover on Amazon! It’s a solution that is great for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.

OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner

Check out the OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner at Walmart. It’s great for getting rid of stains and odors on your carpets and rugs! Head over to Walmart to see it for yourself.

Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner

The Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner can be found on Walmart’s website; this cleaner provides professional-grade cleaning for carpets and Rugs alike.

By utilizing these items in your maintenance routine for your outdoor rug, you can keep it looking new and clean all year long.

Conclusion

Keeping your indoor/outdoor rugs clean can be quite doable, but if you stick to the procedures and make use of reliable cleaning products.

In case you’re pressed for time and you would rather have some expert help with the thorough cleaning tasks required. You might want to consider hiring a cleaning service to assist you with those extensive cleaning jobs.

Consider NW Maids House Cleaning Service

Consider checking out NW Maids, as they are known for their high-quality cleaning services that cover carpet cleaning to ensure your living space remains tidy and pleasant.

Make sure to care for your carpets and seek assistance as needed to maintain the appearance of your indoor and outdoor areas throughout the year.

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​​What Are Indoor/Outdoor Rugs?