Most of the garden rugs we sell are made from polypropylene or polyester making them very durable, however it is likely they will still need cleaning from time to time. We recommend repeating this process every few months to ensure your rug is looking its best.
Before starting, we always recommend you check any care instructions or labels that came with your rug and ensure these are followed closely. If you are unsure, check the individual product page on our website or contact our customer service team.
You will need
- Gloves
- Broom
- Vacuum
- Hosepipe
- Soft-bristle brush
- Liquid dish soap
- Baking soda
Step 1
Remove the dirt
Use your broom to sweep any loose dirt or debris from the rug. Next, put on your gloves and firmly shake your rug to ensure it is fully clean. If the rug is too large to pick up, you can drape it over something like a railing and knock debris off with your hand or with a brush.
Step 2
Vacuum
Use a vacuum to clean both sides of the rug for an even deeper clean, removing any fine dirt or dust. If your rug is made from plastic materials such as polypropylene or polyester, consider a wet/dry vacuum for any tough stains.
Step 3
Rinse off
Check the care label on your rug or care instructions from the brand and if it’s made from washable or plastic materials, use your hosepipe and hose the rug down, washing away dirt, debris or mould you may have missed.
Step 4
Gently scrub
For an even deeper clean and to remove any bacteria, check your rug’s care instructions and if permitting, use a gentle dish soap mixed with warm water. Lather onto the rug and gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
For any lingering stains, try spot cleaning your rug with a solution made from baking soda and warm water. Again, be sure to check any care instructions to ensure the solution won’t damage the rug’s appearance.
Step 5
Dry
If you used any cleaning agents during the process, be sure to rinse the rug with clean water for a second time and lay the outdoor rug flat to dry. Alternatively hang it on a washing line but you should avoid draping it over things like railings or fences as this may alter your rug’s shape and transfer color from the railing or fence. Ensure both sides of the rug are completely dry.
Step 6
Secure it or store it
If you’re ready to place your outdoor rug back on your patio or terrace, make sure to use outdoor rug grips, weights or rug tape to secure it in place and stop it from blowing away, which will ensure your rug stays cleaner for longer.
When entering the winter months, it’s best to store your rug inside to prolong its life and keep it looking good as new. Choose a cool, dry environment such as a garage or loft and keep your rug off the ground where possible, such as on a shelf. A garden shed is also a good option but as they are more susceptible to damp, be sure to keep it off the ground.
