There’s nothing like a good summer party – grilling in the backyard, laughing with friends, and enjoying long sunny days. But after the fun winds down, your rugs – especially outdoor or entryway ones – can tell the story a little too well. Spilled drinks, dropped food, muddy shoes, and pet traffic can leave your beautiful rugs in need of serious TLC.
Here’s how to quickly and effectively clean your rugs after a summer party or BBQ so they stay looking fresh all season long:
1. Shake It Out
Start by taking smaller rugs outdoors and giving them a good shake. This removes loose debris like crumbs, leaves, or grass clippings that accumulate during gatherings. If the rug is too large to shake, give it a thorough vacuum instead.
2. Vacuum Thoroughly
Use a vacuum with strong suction and a rotating brush (if suitable for your rug type) to lift dirt, pet hair, and small debris. Vacuum both sides if possible, especially for flatweaves or low-pile rugs, to remove hidden grit that can wear down fibers over time.
3. Spot Clean Stains Immediately
The longer you wait, the harder it is to remove a stain. Use a clean cloth to blot – not rub – spills. For common party offenders like wine, ketchup, or greasy BBQ sauce:
- For food stains: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. Blot with the solution, then with clean water to rinse.
- For wine or juice: A mix of white vinegar and water (1:1) can help break down pigment. Blot and rinse gently.
Always test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous spot first.
4. Use a Rug-Safe Cleaner
If you notice lingering spots or odors, opt for a rug-specific cleaner designed for your rug’s material. Whether it’s a washable synthetic rug or a natural fiber like jute or wool, make sure the product is safe and pH-balanced for the fiber.
5. Air It Out
If your rug is damp from cleaning or spills, let it dry completely to avoid mildew. Hang it over a railing or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area. Sunshine helps disinfect and freshen it up naturally.
6. Deep Clean If Needed
After heavy use, a deeper clean may be in order. Machine-washable rugs can go straight into the washer (check the label!). For larger or delicate rugs, consider a professional cleaning once or twice a year.
7. Protect with a Rug Pad
After cleaning, add or refresh a rug pad underneath to extend the rug’s life and provide a layer of protection from dirt and moisture.
Final Tip: Choose Party-Friendly Rugs
If you frequently host outdoors, consider stain-resistant, shed-free, or machine-washable rugs like those in our Outdoor or Washable Collections that are made for real life – and real messes.
Keep your space stylish and stress-free, no matter how big the bash.
About Rugs.comRugs.com is a one-stop online rug shop for all your floor covering needs. With over 100,000 rug designs, the extensive selection of indoor and outdoor rugs offers a wide variety of shapes, styles, and textures – perfect for every season of the year and season of life. With more than 60 years of experience in hand-knotted and machine-woven rugs, the family-owned and operated business believes that “Beneath Every Moment” – whether it is a baby’s first step, a first dance, or a cherished memory – there should be a beautiful rug. Helping shoppers find the perfect foundation for life’s moments, Rugs.com is making online shopping simple with the lowest possible prices, fast and free shipping every day, award-winning customer support, and a 30-day free return policy. Rugs.com ships millions of rugs nationwide from the company’s South Carolina and California warehouses. Learn more at www.rugs.com.