How to Clean a Rubber-Backed Throw Rug

Clean rubber-backed throw rugs regularly.

Rubber-backed throw rugs are commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms and home entryways. They take abuse on a daily basis and, as a result, require frequent cleaning. Water drips on them as you exit the shower, you wipe your muddy shoes on them as you enter the house and they attract any food you spill in the kitchen. While they are not amongst the high-maintenance items in your home, using the proper cleaning methods goes a long way in preventing damage to throw rugs.

Things You'll Need

• Stain removal spray
• Color safe bleach
• Laundry soap

Instructions

1. Pick up the rugs and carry them outside. Shake out the loose dirt, dust and debris.

2. Spray heavily soiled areas with a stain removal spray of your choice. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Allow the stain remover to work for the recommended length of time.

3. Place the rubber-backed throw rugs in the washing machine. Set the water level to the appropriate height and temperature. Use hot water for white rugs and cold water for colored rugs.

4. Add laundry soap to the water. Add the appropriate amount of soap recommended by the soap manufacturer for the load size.

5. Add color safe bleach to the wash water. Follow the manufacturer's recommended measurement for load size.

6. Remove the throw rug from the washing machine after the wash and rinse cycles finish.

7. Drape the throw rug over a clothesline, fence or chair to dry. Secure the rug with clothespins or large plastic clips. You can also lay the rug, rubber side up, on a flat surface to dry. If you do not lay it rubber side up, water pools on the surface of the rubber and the rug takes longer to dry.

8. Run your fingers through the carpet nap once the throw rug dries. This fluffs up the rug's nap.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace throw rugs if the rubber backing cracks or peels. Do not place them in the washing machine; the rubber can clog up the machine.

• Do not dry rubber-backed throw rugs in the dryer. The heat causes the rubber to break down and crack.