How to Remove Mildew From a Rug

When darkness and moisture team up, mildew can be a nasty outcome. Rugs are an easy target, especially those kept in the bathroom where water from the shower can seep in and get underneath. Mildew is a byproduct of mold, a spore-like fungus that thrives in cool damp dark places. It's a thin layer of black and white that puts off a terrible odor. Cleaning mildew is an easy task that reaps great benefits, not only in esthetics, but for health concerns as well.

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Soft clean cloth
• Ammonia

Instructions

1. Scrape away as much of the mildew as possible. It's best to do this outside so as to not get any mildew anywhere else in the house. Use a brush to remove as much of the mildew as can be scraped off.

2. Vacuum or sweep the rug to remove any loose debris.

3. Mix a teaspoon of dish soap with a cup of lukewarm water.

4. Use a sponge to scrub the area with the soapy water. Scrub away as much of the mildew as possible.

5. Allow the soapy water to sit on the affected area for at least ten minutes.

6. Rinse the area with clear water and a sponge.

7. Mix 2 tbsp. of ammonia with a cup of lukewarm water.

8. Apply the solution to the stain with a clean cloth dipped in the solution.

9. Scrub away any remaining mildew or stain.

10. Allow the rug to dry completely by setting it outside in the sunlight or placing it in front of a fan.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be helpful to take the rug outside at least once a month and let it sit in the sunshine to kill of any mold spores.

• Wear gloves and ventilate the area well when you're using ammonia and dealing with mildew.