Outdoor Rugs Care & Maintenance

Outdoor rugs are known for their durability, but with regular maintenance, you can keep yours looking brand new! Here are a few easy tips for keeping your outdoor rug looking beautiful. Vacuum Vacuum your rug regularly - at least twice a week if it's in a high-traffic area. This is especially important for outdoor rugs and outdoor carpets. Vacuuming will help dislodge dirt particles that can embed themselves in the rug pile and will keep the pile from getting matted. To effectively prevent matting in your rug, vacuum across both patterns of traffic regularly. Be careful on the edges of your rug so the ends don't become frayed or unraveled. Make sure your vacuum bag is empty, as even a half-full vacuum bag reduces the efficiency of your vacuum.

Reverse the Rug
If your rug is reversible, flip it over periodically to help even out the distribution of wear and fading.

Check for Insect Damage
At least once a month, thoroughly check your rug for insect damage and infestation. Find an appropriate cleaner, or hire someone to treat your rug at the first sign of any deterioration.

Spot-Clean
Spot-clean your outdoor rug as soon as you notice spills. Use paper towels or an absorbent cloth to blot liquids and a spoon to scoop up solids immediately. Use a gentle stain cleaner (oxygen-based cleaners work well, as well as vinegar/water mixtures) to lift the stain from the rug. Always pre-test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first, to make sure it is safe for use on the entire rug. Always apply cleaner to the cleaning cloth and not directly to the rug. Blot the stain instead of rubbing, as rubbing may spread the stain or distort the rug pile. Do not use silicone-based stain repellents on your outdoor rugs, as they actually tend to accelerate the soiling of your rug.

Professional Cleaning
It is recommended to get your outdoor rug cleaned professionally once every 1 to 3 years, depending on the level of traffic on the rug. This will help dislodge the ground in dirt and particles that a vacuum can't reach, and keep your outdoor rug or carpet fresh.

Outdoor rug cleaning and maintenance is a cinch with these easy-to-follow tips. Proper outdoor rug cleaning and maintenance will also extend the life and looks of your rug or carpet for years to come.