How to Deodorize an Area Rug

An area rug can become dirty over time. Humans and pets can track things from the outdoors into the home, which can make rugs and carpet alike very dirty and unappealing to look at. Cleaning these rugs is very easy with the right tools, most of which you can find in your home. Area rugs come in a variety of patterns and colors, but regardless of the appearance of your rug, you can have it smelling clean and fresh in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket of water
• Carpet cleaner
• Cleaning brush
• Deodorizing and disinfecting spray (such as Lysol)
• Dryer sheets

Instructions

1. Take your area rug outside, and pour a bucket of water onto it. Soak it completely.

2. Wring out the rug, and clean it thoroughly with your carpet cleaner and a cleaning brush. Do not use so much cleaner that the rug becomes soaked again. It should only be damp in this stage.

3. Let the rug dry entirely in the sun or by using a fan.

4. Spray the rug with deodorizing and disinfecting spray to remove the germs associated with the smell of a dirty rug.

5. Cover the rug with dryer sheets, and roll up the rug with them in it. Leave it like that for three to four hours, and unroll it. Your area rug is now clean and deodorized.

Tips & Warnings

• Go cheap with this method. Do not spend money on unnecessary expensive cleaners.

• Remember to wring your rug out after pouring water on it. Soaking materials can cause odors as well as other sources.

References

• Deodorizing
• Cleaning Area Rugs