Outdoor carpets enhance the look of outdoor spaces like patios, porches, and decks while providing comfort underfoot. However, outdoor carpets are exposed to dirt, debris, spills, and the elements, so they require regular cleaning to look their best and last a long time. Follow these tips to learn how to thoroughly clean outdoor carpets and keep them looking fresh.

Supplies Needed to Clean Outdoor Carpets

Before getting started, gather the following supplies to clean outdoor carpets:

Vacuum cleaner – Use a vacuum with strong suction to lift dirt and debris out of the carpet fibers. Look for vacuums designed for use on outdoor carpets.
Stiff brush – A stiff, short bristle brush helps scrub stains and lift deeper dirt out of the carpet pile.
Garden hose – Use a gardening hose to rinse away cleaning solutions. Make sure the stream isn’t too powerful.
Mild detergent – Mix an oxygen-based detergent or carpet shampoo with water to break down spills and stains. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Cleaning rags – Have clean rags or sponges handy to blot liquid spills and scrub stubborn spots.
Broom – Sweep off loose debris before vacuuming or washing the carpet.

How to Vacuum Outdoor Carpeting

Vacuuming is the first step in routine maintenance of outdoor carpets. Follow these vacuuming tips:

Vacuum outdoor carpeting at least once per week in high traffic areas to prevent dirt buildup.
Adjust the vacuum height to the appropriate setting for carpet. Avoid pressing down too hard.
Make several passes back and forth across each section of carpet to lift embedded dirt.
Use a crevice tool to vacuum corners, edges, and hard to reach spots.
Remove pet hair, leaves, pine needles, and other debris promptly to limit staining.
Spot clean any visible stains immediately after vacuuming using the steps below.
Consider pretreating heavy stains to lift them before vacuuming.
Empty the vacuum canister or bag frequently when cleaning outdoor carpets.

Thorough, regular vacuuming removes abrasive particles that can wear down carpet fibers over time.

How to Remove Stains from Outdoor Carpets

Spills and stains are inevitable on outdoor carpeting. Follow these steps to clean common stains:

Food and Beverage Stains

For stains caused by food, drinks, or condiments:

Blot up as much of the spill as possible using a clean rag. Avoid rubbing it in.
Spray a mixture of 2 cups warm water, 1/4 teaspoon mild detergent, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar directly on the stain.
Allow it to soak for 3-5 minutes.
Blot the stain again with a clean rag, applying light pressure.
Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove detergent residue.
Blot again until dry.

Oil-Based Stains

For oil-based stains like grease or motor oil:

Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the stain.
Allow to sit for 15 minutes to absorb the oil.
Shake or vacuum up the baking soda.
Create a paste by mixing 1 tablespoon dish soap with 1 tablespoon water.
Rub the paste into the stain using a stiff brush or rag.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and blot dry.

Pet Stains

For tough pet stains:

Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray liberally over the stain.
Allow it to soak in for 5-10 minutes. This helps neutralize odors and lift staining.
Create a paste with 1/4 cup baking soda and just enough water to form a thick paste.
Spread the paste over the stain and let sit for 15 minutes.
Wipe away paste with a clean, damp rag.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and blot dry.

Repeat staining treatments until the discoloration is fully removed. Rinsing thoroughly prevents detergent residue buildup. Blotting absorbs liquid instead of rubbing it in.

How to Deep Clean Outdoor Carpets

For periodic deep cleaning, outdoor carpets can be washed just like regular carpets. Here are two options:

1. Hot Water Extraction

Hot water extraction is also known as steam cleaning. This thorough cleaning method is ideal for heavily soiled outdoor carpets.

Vacuum the carpet thoroughly before washing.
Pretest cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first.
Fill the extractor with properly diluted cleaner. Carpet shampoo or mild laundry detergents are acceptable.
Work over small sections, spraying cleaning solution into carpet and immediately extracting dirty water with a shop vac.
Make additional passes until no more dirt appears.
Follow up by rinsing with clean water only to remove detergent residue.
Allow the carpet to dry completely before using, usually 24-48 hours.

2. Pressure Washing

Outdoor carpets can be power washed using a pressure washer.

Vacuum and/or sweep first to remove loose debris.
Pretest cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous spot. Start with mild detergents.
Mist carpet with cleaning solution using a low pressure spray. Allow it to soak 5-10 minutes.
Rinse on a low pressure setting under 200 psi. High pressure risks carpet damage.
Work in sections and make extra passes over heavily soiled areas.
Rinse thoroughly with just water to prevent residue buildup.
Allow the carpet to dry fully before walking on it, usually 24-48 hours.

Thorough deep cleaning every 6-12 months revives outdoor carpets and extends their life. Allowing outdoor carpets to dry completely before use prevents mold and mildew growth.

How to Remove Odors from Outdoor Carpets

Outdoor carpets are prone to odors from spills, pets, smoke, and mildew. Try these tips to freshen and deodorize carpets:

Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the entire carpet. Let sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming. The baking soda helps absorb odors.
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. Mist over the carpet. The acid in vinegar neutralizes odors. Avoid getting the backing too wet.
Purchase an outdoor carpet cleaner containing enzymes and microbial agents specifically designed to eliminate odors naturally.
On sunny days, place the carpet outside in direct sunlight. The UV rays in sunlight act as a natural disinfectant.
Rinse the carpet with clean water after deodorizing to prevent residue buildup.
Consider replacing outdoor carpet padding if odors persist despite cleaning. The padding may be harboring odors.

Regular cleaning prevents odors from building up over time. Address pet urine promptly since the acids can damage carpet fibers.

How to Clean Different Types of Outdoor Carpets

Outdoor carpets come in different materials, weaves, and constructions. Follow material-specific tips:

Polypropylene Outdoor Carpet

Polypropylene outdoor carpets have excellent stain and fade resistance.

Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using cleaners. Avoid oxidizing agents.
Extract or pressure wash polypropylene carpet every 3-4 months.
Rinse thoroughly after washing. Polypropylene attracts dirt if residue remains.
Avoid excessive heat. Polypropylene can melt under too much heat during cleaning.

Olefin Outdoor Carpet

Olefin carpets are colorfast and resist mildew and moisture.

Vacuum weekly and spot clean spills promptly. Olefin resists staining but is not impervious.
Pressure wash olefin carpet every 4-6 months. It stands up well to power washing.
Use only mild, alkaline-based cleaners. Acids degrade olefin fibers over time.
Rinse olefin carpet thoroughly after cleaning. Detergent residue appears as a sticky film.

Jute Outdoor Carpet

Natural fiber jute carpets provide a woven texture but stain easily.

Vacuum gently once per week since jute is a delicate fiber.
Pretreat stains quickly before they set. Jute absorbs liquid easily.
Clean with mild detergent and lukewarm water using a soft brush. Avoid excessive moisture.
Allow jute carpet to dry thoroughly in the sun to prevent mold growth.

Nylon Outdoor Carpet

Nylon’s excellent durability makes it ideal for outdoor use.

Vacuum twice weekly. Nylon’s dense pile hides dirt. Go slowly to remove it.
Clean stains immediately as nylon is prone to permanent staining.
Wash every 4-6 months using hot water extraction which nylon withstands well.
Avoid excessive moisture which can damage the carpet backing over time.

How to Remove Mold and Mildew from Outdoor Carpets

Since outdoor carpets remain damp longer than indoor carpets, mold and mildew growth is common. Follow these guidelines to remove it:

Mix 1 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Spray over the affected area of carpet. This disinfects and inhibits further growth. Avoid getting the bleach solution on your skin.
Make a non-toxic solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray liberally on the carpet and allow it to soak in for 10 minutes. The vinegar kills mold.
Purchase an outdoor carpet cleaner containing antimicrobial ingredients specifically designed to eliminate mold and mildew.
Use a stiff bristle brush to gently scrub affected areas to remove mold and mildew growth after applying a cleaning solution.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water after cleaning to prevent residue buildup which encourages more mildew.
Improve drainage and air circulation under the carpet. Water and moisture feed mold growth.

Address signs of mold or mildew promptly to inhibit damage and avoid health risks. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning large areas of carpet mold.

How to Winterize Outdoor Carpeting

Freezing winter temperatures can damage outdoor carpets. Here are tips to protect them:

Give the carpet a deep clean before winter to prevent dirt and stain buildup under snow and ice.
Vacuum fallen leaves regularly throughout autumn to prevent mold spots from developing.
Allow the carpet to dry fully before the first snowfall, usually 24-48 hours after deep cleaning.
Consider treating with a stain-resistant protectant to repel salt and ice melt chemicals during winter.
Shake off or sweep away snow before it becomes packed down and trapped in the carpet pile.
Inspect for damage in spring after the snow melts, like flattened or crushed spots.

Storing outdoor carpets over winter is also an option. First clean and allow them to dry fully. Then roll up loosely and store in a dry area like a shed or garage until spring.

FAQs About Cleaning Outdoor Carpets

How often should outdoor carpets be cleaned?

Vacuum outdoor carpets once or twice per week. This regular vacuuming helps prevent dirt buildup and embedding.
Spot clean stains immediately as they occur all year long. This prevents permanent setting.
Deep clean outdoor carpeting every 4 to 6 months on average. Deep cleaning removes embedded dirt vacuuming leaves behind.

What is the best way to clean outdoor carpets?

Hot water extraction is the most effective cleaning method for outdoor carpets. Also called steam cleaning, hot water extraction rinses away ingrained dirt that vacuuming misses.
Power washing also works well for periodic deep cleaning of outdoor carpets. The pressurized water easily lifts mud and debris.

What is the best cleaner for outdoor carpets?

Look for cleaners specifically formulated for outdoor carpets on the label. They contain ingredients to protect outdoor fibers.
Avoid harsh chemicals. Stick to mild liquid detergents like oxygen bleach or carpet shampoo.
Make sure cleaners are designed for the specific fiber construction of your outdoor carpet.

How long does it take for outdoor carpets to dry after cleaning?

Expect outdoor carpets to take 24 to 48 hours to fully dry after steam cleaning or power washing. The exact drying time depends on the weather.
Do not use the carpet until completely dry. Walking on damp carpeting can cause mold and mildew problems.

Why does my outdoor carpet get mold?

Outdoor carpets are prone to mold and mildew growth due to moisture exposure. Prolonged dampness feeds mold growth.
Improve drainage and airflow under mats. Allow the pad and backing to dry fully between cleanings.
Treat mold promptly when it appears. Disinfectants inhibit growth and spread.

Can I use bleach to clean my outdoor carpet?

Yes, you can use bleach to clean outdoor carpets in dilute solutions. Mix ? cup bleach per gallon of water.
Test colored carpets for colorfastness first. Bleach can lighten some carpet dyes.
Rinse thoroughly after using bleach to prevent residue buildup which attracts dirt over time.

How do I get rid of odors in an outdoor carpet?

Baking soda helps absorb odors. Sprinkle over carpet, let sit 15 minutes, then vacuum up.
White vinegar is a deodorizer. Spray full strength vinegar, let soak in 10 minutes, then rinse.
Enzyme carpet cleaners digest and destroy odor molecules and are safe for outdoor use.
Leaving carpet outdoors in sunshine naturally disinfects.

Conclusion

Outdoor carpets require regular care and cleaning to maintain their appearance and get the most years of use from them. By vacuuming weekly, spot cleaning promptly, and deep cleaning every 4-6 months, outdoor carpets will stay fresh and enhance outdoor living spaces longer. Adjust cleaning methods and solutions according to the specific construction and material of your outdoor carpet. With proper maintenance, outdoor carpets can handle their exposure to the elements and high traffic areas.

How to Clean Outdoor Carpet