How to Clean an Outdoor Rug

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Outdoor rugs have become popular with decorators and homeowners alike. They are affordable, stylish and most importantly, easy to care for. With the proper care, an outdoor rug can last for years, providing beauty and warmth to any room, whether indoor or out. Follow these steps to learn how to clean your outdoor rug.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Prevent the dirt and grime from getting on the rug in the first place. During harsh weather seasons, roll the rug up and store it. Although the rug is outside on a porch, have a shoe scrubber in the doorway and encourage those coming in to wipe away the extra dirt from their shoes. Double goes for muddy shoes to keep an outdoor rug clean.

Step2

Read the manufacturer's instructions if you happened to save them from the original purchase or look up the manufacturer's website. Many have cleaning instructions available online.

Step3

Remember the pad underneath when you go to clean the outdoor rug. Before you apply anything to the rug, if there's padding underneath, make sure it can withstand the same cleaning techniques you plan to use for the rug. You don't want to take the garden hose to a rug if the pad will absorb gallons of water and take a week to dry out.

Step4

Move the rug to an outdoor area, preferably one with a slight incline when you clean the rug. This will allow you to use a garden hose to spay the rug and the incline will drain the water off the rug naturally.

Step5

Make a solution of dish soap and water and gently clean any soiled spots with a long handled soft bristled brush. Spray the entire outdoor rug off with a garden hose and allow it to dry in the sun. Turn the rug over and allow the other side to dry if needed. Do not replace the rug if the bottom is still wet as it can create mold.