An outdoor rug can make your patio or deck feel cozy and stylish. However, being outside means it quickly gathers dirt, pollen, and grime. Over time, this buildup can look bad and may also hold allergens and mold. If you don’t clean your outdoor rug, you could end up bringing these pollutants into your home.
Fortunately, cleaning an outdoor rug is a straightforward task that doesn’t require expensive products or professional help. With a few basic tools and a little bit of time, you can restore its beauty and prolong its life. This guide will walk you through a simple, six-step process to get your outdoor rug looking fresh and clean, making your outdoor space more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Why You Should Clean Your Outdoor Rug
Shoes can bring in a lot of dust from outside, including pesticides, fungal spores, and other contaminants. Much of this ends up trapped in your outdoor rug. The University of Georgia Extension says that even a simple doormat can help reduce allergens in your home. Cleaning your outdoor rugs and entry mats regularly is an important way to keep your living space cleaner and healthier, both inside and out.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these common household items.
Tools & Equipment
- Broom
- Vacuum cleaner (a wet/dry vacuum is ideal)
- Garden hose
- Soft-bristle Brush
Materials
- Liquid dish soap
- White vinegar or baking soda (optional, for mildew and tough stains)
How to Clean Your Outdoor Rug
Use these six steps to remove dirt, allergens, and grime from your outdoor rug.
1. Shake Out Loose Dirt
Start by taking your rug to a grassy area or somewhere you don’t mind getting dusty. If it’s small, shake it well to remove loose dirt and dust. For bigger rugs, hang them over a sturdy fence or railing and use a broom or your hands to beat out the dust.
2. Vacuum Both Sides
After shaking, some dust and dirt will still be left in the rug. Vacuum both the front and back thoroughly. A wet/dry vacuum works best for deep cleaning, but a regular vacuum is fine too. If you have pets, use a brush attachment to get rid of any hair.
3. Give It a Good Rinse
Next, check your rug’s care label to make sure it’s washable. Most outdoor rugs are made from strong materials like polypropylene, which are easy to clean. (Why Polypropylene Outdoor Rugs Are Necessary for Your Home, 2025) Lay the rug on a clean, sloped surface like your driveway so water can drain. Use a garden hose to rinse the rug and wash away the dirt you loosened earlier.
4. Scrub with a Gentle Cleaner
Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap into a bucket of warm water to make a simple cleaning solution. For mildew or mold, use a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water. You can also make a paste with baking soda and water to treat tough or greasy stains.
Test any cleaning solution on a small hidden area first to make sure it won’t discolor the rug. When you’re ready, pour the soapy water over the rug and gently scrub the whole surface with a soft-bristle brush. Focus on any spots that are especially dirty.
5. Rinse and Dry Thoroughly
Once you’ve finished, after scrubbing, rinse the rug with the hose to remove all soap and residue. Be thorough, because any leftover soap can attract more dirt.g, lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it on a clothesline. Avoid draping it over a railing, as this can cause the carpet to lose its shape or transfer color. (Care instruction manual – Outdoor, 2025) Make sure the top side is completely dry before flipping it over to dry the back. Ensuring the rug is bone-dry on both sides is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth. (Outdoor Rug Care, n.d.)
6. Prepare for Storage or Placement
If you’re cleaning the rug for storage at the end of the season, roll it up tightly and secure it with ropes or stretch cords. To keep it safe from moisture and pests, store it in a plastic bag or under a tarp in a dry spot like a shed or garage.
If you plan to put the rug back in its place, take a moment to clean the surface underneath it first. A quick sweep or hosing down of your patio or deck will prevent your freshly cleaned rug from getting dirty again right away. Finally, set a calendar reminder to repeat this process every few months to keep your outdoor space looking its best.
Keep Your Outdoor Space Fresh
A clean outdoor rug makes your patio look better and helps keep your home healthier by trapping dirt and allergens before they get inside. By following this simple routine, you can keep your rug in good shape and enjoy a welcoming outdoor space all season.
