Outdoor rugs make wonderful additions to outdoor spaces. They provide an attractive focal point and can be used to pull the look of your furniture together. The carpeting also protects your deck and patio from spills and stains in the spots where people tend to gather. If you want to keep the rug for a long time, be sure to follow this maintenance guide. 

Do:

Sweep regularly.

When dirt accumulates on outdoor rugs, it rubs against the fibers and causes them to deteriorate. Sweeping with a soft-bristled brush at least once a week will prevent grime buildup. Vacuuming is only necessary if the flooring begins to look darker than when you initially bought it. 

Store when not in use.

Although your entry-door rugs see an exceptional amount of foot traffic year-round, those on your deck and patio probably don’t get as much once the weather cools and people start staying inside. Protect them during this time from excess element exposure by rolling them up and placing them somewhere dry until the next warm season. 

Don’t:

Clean mold with bleach.

While outdoor rugs are usually made with synthetic materials that are mold and mildew resistant, moisture accumulation and dirt buildup will attract them. Although it might seem like bleach is the best solution for getting rid of the fungus, it is actually a harsh-oxidizing cleaner and can dull the rug’s color, fray its fibers, and weaken any backing or underlay material.

Instead, apply distilled white vinegar and let it sit for at least one hour. Afterward, pour a mixture of one cup vinegar and one gallon of warm water over the rug and use a scrub brush to clear out any remaining mold between the looms. When done, thoroughly rinse the covering with a hose and then hang it in direct view of the sun to dry. 

Let spills sit for too long.

Although they are typically stain-resistant, outdoor rugs can still develop unsightly spots if spills are completely ignored. When one happens, quickly blot it with a dry cloth. Avoid scrubbing, which could push the substance deeper into the fibers. If a large spill happens, use your garden hose to wash it off before hanging the rug in direct sunlight to dry out. 

If you need an outdoor area rug to pull your deck or patio space together, look no further than Georgia Direct Carpet Outlet in Hamilton, OH. This carpet store carries a wide range of carpeting, hardwood, ceramic tile, and vinyl flooring options from trusted manufacturers, including Mohawk®, Beaulieu®, and Shaw Floors®. They also carry carpet remnants discounted up to 50 percent. Call them at (513) 894-7700 to learn about shopping at home for free, and visit their website to see what their customers are saying.