Step outside and examine your balcony or patio in detail. Your once-loved outdoor rug may be looking a little worn out now; it may be dusty, somewhat green with algae, or even have mildew stains on it.
Don’t worry. You don’t need to throw it out or spend hours scrubbing on your hands and knees. Learning how to clean an outdoor rug is simpler than you think and totally possible at home.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean, dry, and refresh your outdoor rug and yes, we’ll talk about how to clean outdoor rugs with mildew, mold, and even algae.
Why Outdoor Rugs Get So Dirty
Outdoor rugs have a tough life. They get dirty from shoes, paws, rain, sunshine and some even falling leaves or bird droppings. In the case of outdoor rugs, they’re out in the elements, where they attract more dirt and moisture than an indoor rug does. That can result in stains, odor, and sometimes even mold, algae or mildew growth.
Which is why learning how to clean an outdoor rug properly is essential to its longevity and maintaining your space looking clean and welcoming.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean an Outdoor Rug
1. Shake or Vacuum the Rug First
Before you even begin washing anything, shake your rug. If too large, vacuum both sides. This is useful for getting rid of loose dirt, leaves and dust.
This is key whether you are learning how to clean a patio rug or how to clean an outdoor rug from your own backyard.
2. Mix a Simple Cleaning Solution
You don’t need special cleaners. A solution of warm water and dish soap will also work just fine. In a bucket, mix:
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1–2 tablespoons of dish soap
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Warm (not hot) water
If you are dealing with mildew or algae, use a cup of white vinegar added to the mix. That makes it suitable for how to clean outdoor rug with mildew and how to clean outdoor rug with algae.
3. Scrub Gently with a Soft Brush
Use a soft-bristled brush and dip it into your solution, scrub the rug carefully. Concentrate on any place where there are stains, dirt or growth, like mold or mildew. Rub in circular motions, don’t go so hard that you’ll damage the fibers.
It can be applied to any case:
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How to get mold out of outdoor rug
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How to clean mold off outdoor rug
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How to get mildew out of an outdoor rug
4. Rinse It Well
After you’ve scrubbed, you can rinse off. A garden hose is actually perfect here. Rinse thoroughly on both sides to clear all soap, dirt, and loosened grime.
If you don’t rinse properly, soap scum can build up and may trap more dirt over time.
5. Dry It Completely
Knowing how to dry outdoor rug is just as important as washing it.
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String it over a balcony, railing, fence or clothesline
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Ensure that it’s in the sun. Sunlight will help kill any lingering bacteria or mold spores.
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Allow both sides to dry completely, then replace
Mildew can redevelop in a moist carpet.
How to Wash an Outdoor Rug Deeply
A fast scrape isn't always sufficient. Consider spilled drinks, a storm, or persistent mildew if your rug has seen a lot of wear and tear. Here’s how to wash an outdoor rug more deeply:
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Place it flat on a clean patio or driveway
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Use a power washer set at low for a more thorough cleaning
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Alternatively, scrub stained areas with a paste of baking soda and water before washing
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Always rinse well and ensure it’s totally dry
Still wondering how you clean an outdoor rug that smells musty? A vinegar rinse or sprinkle of baking soda can help cut odors during the cleaning process.
Can You Machine-Wash an Outdoor Rug?
First, look at the tag. Certain smaller outdoor rugs have the label "machine-washable" on them. Shake off the dirt first if yours is.
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Use a mild detergent and cold water
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Avoid using a dryer and instead let it air dry entirely
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Cleaning larger rugs by hand is preferable
Seasonal Maintenance Tips to Clean an Outdoor Rug
A little regular care goes a long way, but occasional cleaning is good. The following advice will help your rug seem newer for longer:
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Every week, shake or vacuum; clean spills immediately
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When it's raining or extremely cold, roll it up and store it
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Use a rug pad on slick surfaces to improve ventilation and prevent mold
If you're wondering how to clean an outdoor rug on a regular basis without giving it a thorough wash, these methods will be helpful.
How Often Should You Clean It?
Weekly deep cleaning is not necessary, but:
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It helps to lightly clean every one to two weeks, or every two to three months
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After prolonged rain or storms, a more thorough cleaning is recommended
It's best to address issues early, such as how to clean an outdoor rug with mildew or algae, before they get worse.
Final Thoughts
If you take a little care of them, outdoor rugs can provide coziness, color, and cleanliness to your room.
The method is simpler than most people think, whether you're trying to figure out how to clean a patio rug, wash an outdoor rug, or even get rid of mildew from an outdoor rug.
Start out easy. Give it a shake. Give it a scrub. Give it a rinse. Let it completely dry. Additionally, outdoor rugs are designed to withstand real life, so don't worry about being flawless.
So you'll know the answers the next time someone asks, "How do you clean an outdoor rug?"
Have a go-to rug-cleaning tip? Let us know in the comments!
Bookmark this for spring cleaning season!
