How to Care for an Outdoor Rug

If you want to really finish your patio off properly there aren’t too many ways to bring everything together while increasing the comfort of your patio the way an outdoor rug can. They can be beautiful and stay that way for quite some time, provided that you take care of them, of course. So how do you care for an outdoor rug?

Regularly Remove Dust and Debris

The first thing you should do to take care of an outdoor rug is to regularly remove the dust and debris that will inevitably collect on it, thanks to it being outside. There are a few different ways you can accomplish this, depending on how much time you have and the size of your rug. You could simply shake it out if it’s small enough to hold up by a single corner. Otherwise, hang it over something like a fence or railing and beat it with a stick or broom handle. You could also vacuum it, both the top and bottom sides, to get rid of surface debris and loosen packed dirt. Alternatively, you can get a broom and give both sides of your rug an energetic sweeping. This can be a good option if you don’t have a vacuum with a long enough cord to reach the rug.

Spot Clean It

It’s pretty normal for things to get dropped and spilled on an outdoor rug. Spot cleaning it as needed can help prevent staining. Blotting liquid spills with a dry cloth can help soak them up. For dry stains, mix water with a mild detergent and use it with a sponge or cloth to gently clean the area. Make sure you rinse the spot well and allow your rug to dry.

Wash It

Every rug will benefit from a good washing every now and again. Start by using your preferred dust and debris removal method and follow up by soaking it with a hose or bucket of water. Mix up a solution of water and a rug cleaner or mild detergent and scrub it into the rug with a soft brush. Let the rug sit for about 10 minutes before giving it a good, thorough rinse until the water runs clear. Allow the rug to lie flat as it dries and make sure it’s completely dry before calling it quits.

Outdoor rugs can be a great way to complete any patio. Naturally, you’ll want yours to look great and last for quite some time, and properly taking care of your outdoor rug is essential to making that possible. Of course, if yours is looking a little worse for wear, you can always find a replacement at Sonoma Backyard so you can continue to enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful outdoor rug for your patio.

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