Outdoor rugs are a great way to add style and comfort to patios, decks, and other outdoor living spaces. However, being exposed to the elements can cause outdoor rugs to develop mildew, which is a type of mold that grows on fabric. Mildew thrives in warm, humid environments and can leave rugs looking dirty and dingy. While mildew itself is not dangerous, it can be unsightly and lead to deterioration of the rug fibers if left untreated. The good news is that mildew can be removed from outdoor rugs with some simple cleaning methods. Here’s what you need to know about how to effectively clean outdoor rugs and remove stubborn mildew stains.
What Causes Mildew on Outdoor Rugs?
Several factors can contribute to mildew growth on outdoor rugs:
- Moisture – Mildew needs a damp environment to grow. Outdoor rugs left in shady, humid areas or that get wet from rain, sprinklers, etc. provide ideal conditions for mildew.
- Lack of sunlight – Sunlight helps inhibit mildew growth. Rugs in constantly shady spots tend to be more prone to mildew.
- Poor airflow – When rugs are placed in enclosed areas without airflow, mildew is more likely to develop. Proper ventilation is important.
- Organic debris – Things like leaves, dirt, pollen and other debris that collect on the rug give mildew food to feed on.
- Warm temperatures – Mildew thrives in summer heat. Warmer months make outdoor rugs more susceptible.
- Rug materials – Natural fibers like jute, sisal, seagrass and cotton provide better environments for mildew than synthetics.
By understanding what causes mildew, you can take steps to inhibit its growth and prevent recurring issues.
How to Identify Mildew on Outdoor Rugs
Detecting mildew early is key to treating it quickly and stopping extensive growth. Here’s how to spot mildew:
- Look for dark spots or discoloration – Mildew typically appears first as dark spots or black, gray or brown discoloration on the rug. These can range from light shadows to large stained areas.
- Check the backing – Flip the rug over. Mildew often grows on the underside first before becoming visible on the front.
- Smell for mustiness – Mildew has a distinctive damp, musty odor. Give the rug a sniff test, especially in any discolored areas.
- Observe texture changes – As mildew advances, it can cause rug fibers to become stiff, brittle and rough in texture.
- Note fuzzy or powdery growth – In severe mildew cases, you may see what looks like black fuzz or a fine powdery coating on the rug’s surface.
Acting quickly at the first signs of mildew gives you the best chance of removing it and salvaging your rug.
Routine Maintenance to Help Prevent Mildew
Implementing a good maintenance routine for your outdoor rugs can go a long way in preventing mildew growth. Here are some tips:
- Allow rugs to fully dry out between uses. After rain or cleaning, let rugs dry completely before putting them back down.
- Shake out rugs frequently. This removes accumulated debris like dirt, leaves and pollen that mildew feeds on.
- Vacuum both sides regularly. This lifts out debris stuck deep in the rug fibers.
- Occasionally flip and rotate rugs. This exposes all sides more evenly to sunlight and wear.
- Check rugs for mildew weekly. Look for early signs and treat promptly.
- Move rugs indoors during damp seasons. Storing rugs inside over winter or during rainy spells avoids excess moisture.
- Place in sunny spots. Good airflow and sunlight deter mildew growth.
- Consider mildew-resistant rugs. Some rugs boast mildew-resistant construction.
With proper care, you can keep your outdoor rugs mildew-free and looking fresh for many seasons.
How to Remove Mildew from Outdoor Rugs
If mildew has already set in on your outdoor rug, don’t panic. With the right methods, you can often successfully remove mildew and restore the rug’s appearance. Here are some effective options for cleaning mildew from outdoor rugs:
Simple Scrubbing
For minor mildew damage limited to small spots or areas of discoloration, scrubbing is usually sufficient to remove the mildew.
What You’ll Need:
- Warm water
- Mild detergent or rug cleaner
- Soft-bristled scrub brush
- Sponge or clean towel
Instructions:
- Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Look for a detergent labeled safe for rugs/upholstery.
- Dip a soft-bristled scrub brush in the solution. Gently scrub the affected areas to work in the detergent.
- Rinse the scrubbed areas thoroughly with clean water, using a sponge or towel to blot.
- Allow the rug to fully air dry in sunlight before placing back down. The sunlight will further inhibit mildew growth.
Repeat as needed for stubborn areas, but avoid over-scrubbing, which can damage fibers. This method works well for catching mildew early.
Baking Soda Paste
For removing more extensive mildew stains, baking soda is an effective and natural cleaning solution. The baking soda pastes helps draw out and absorb the mildew.
What You’ll Need:
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- White vinegar
- Sponge or soft towel
- Scrub brush (optional)
Instructions:
- Create a thick paste by mixing 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Spread this paste generously over all mildew-stained areas.
- Allow the paste to sit for 2-6 hours so it can fully absorb the mildew. Reapply to any areas that have dried out.
- After several hours, use a sponge and warm water to rinse the paste away. Scrub with a soft brush if needed.
- Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. Mist this over the cleaned areas. The vinegar helps kill lingering mildew spores.
- Allow the rug to completely air dry in direct sunlight before placing it down again. The sun will provide added disinfecting.
The baking soda paste helps remove even stubborn, set-in mildew stains without harsh chemicals. Vinegar provides extra mildew protection.
Deep Cleaning Rinse
For heavy mildew damage, a deep cleaning rinse is extremely effective at removing mildew and sanitizing the rug.
What You’ll Need:
- Large bucket or tub
- Hot water
- Liquid chlorine bleach or oxygen bleach powder
- Scrub brush
- Old towels
- Garden hose
- Plastic gloves
Instructions:
- Fill a large tub with hot water. Add 1⁄4 cup chlorine bleach or oxygen bleach powder per gallon of water. This kills active mildew and sanitizes the rug.
- Submerge the affected areas of the rug in the solution. For whole-rug cleaning, submerge the entire rug. Use a scrub brush on heavily stained areas.
- Let the rug soak 10-20 minutes so the solution penetrates deep into the fibers. Occasionally agitate the rug in the water.
- Drain the tub and rinse the rug thoroughly with clean water using a garden hose.
- Lay the rug flat and place absorbent towels over it. Press down to absorb excess moisture. Allow rug to fully air dry.
- Once fully dry, vacuum the rug well to restore fluffiness. Repeat rinse if needed.
Be sure to wear gloves when using bleach and work in a well-ventilated area. This thorough rinse removes set-in mildew for fresher, cleaner rugs.
Professional Cleaning
For rugs with mildew that covers a large area or is deeply embedded in fibers, professional cleaning may be needed to fully rid the rug of mildew and prevent reoccurrence.
Look for professional rug cleaners experienced in mildew removal and treatment. Many use effective anti-microbial solutions and powerful extraction systems to deep clean every fiber while removing stains. This is especially helpful for delicate, expensive, or heirloom rugs too valuable to risk damaging.
While professional cleaning comes at a cost, it can be worthwhile investment to properly sanitize badly mildewed rugs and restore their long-term usability and appearance. Discuss your needs with reputable cleaners.
Homemade Outdoor Rug Cleaners
Rugs can be cleaned right at home using natural, homemade cleaners that remove mildew without harsh chemicals. Here are some effective options:
- White vinegar solution – Equal parts white vinegar and water makes an effective spray cleaner. The vinegar kills mildew and acts as a deodorizer.
- Tea tree oil cleanser – Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil to warm water. Its anti-fungal properties help combat mildew.
- Hydrogen peroxide mixture – Mix 2 parts hydrogen peroxide with 1 part water to make a natural bleaching cleanser.
- Borax paste – Make a paste with equal parts borax powder and hot water. Spread on stains, allow to dry, then vacuum off.
- Sea salt scrub – Gently rub damp sea salt into mildew stains. The salt crystals provide texture for scrubbing. Rinse well.
Always spot test cleansers on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they won’t bleach or damage delicate fibers. With the right natural cleaner, you can remove mildew without harsh chemicals.
How to Keep Mildew from Returning
Once you’ve succeeded in removing mildew from your outdoor rug, you’ll want to take proactive steps to prevent its return. Here are helpful tips to keep mildew at bay:
- Dry rugs out thoroughly between uses and before storing. Never put away a damp rug.
- Vacuum and shake out rugs frequently to remove surface debris that breeds mildew.
- Sprinkle baking soda on rugs before rolling up for storage. The baking soda inhibits mildew growth.
- Allow plenty of airflow around rug when laid out. Don’t trap rugs against surfaces or furniture.
- Check rugs regularly for early signs of new mildew spots. Address promptly before mildew spreads.
- Consider spraying rugs with an anti-mildew treatment, like those made for outdoor fabrics.
- Rotate your rug’s placement on the floor so no areas get constant moisture or shade.
With proper ongoing care and maintenance, you can keep mildew from taking hold again and extend your rug’s longevity and enjoyment. Be vigilant about checking for early warning signs.
Common Questions about Cleaning Mildew from Outdoor Rugs
Cleaning mildew from outdoor rugs can seem daunting, but is very doable with some practical tips and the right methods. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is the fastest way to remove mildew from an outdoor rug?
For quick mildew removal, mix 1 part bleach to 4 parts water and sponge this solution over mildew stains. Allow to soak 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. This quickly kills active mildew. For a natural option, spray full-strength white vinegar, let sit 1 hour, then rinse.
How do you get mildew smell out of outdoor rugs?
Start by cleaning the rug thoroughly with an anti-mildew solution of either bleach and water or white vinegar. Rinse well, then let the rug dry completely in direct sunlight. Sunlight itself acts as a natural deodorizer. Once fully dry, sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire rug, let sit overnight, then vacuum away. The baking soda absorbs and neutralizes lingering odors.
What temperature kills mildew on outdoor rugs?
Mildew thrives in warmer temperatures of 60-90°F. It struggles to grow in colder temperatures below 55°F. Freezing temperatures will kill active mildew. If possible, exposing mildewed rugs to overnight freezing can help destroy mildew, but be sure to allow the rugs to fully thaw and dry out before using to prevent new mildew growth.
Can I put an outdoor rug in the washing machine to remove mildew?
Only outdoor rugs specifically labeled as machine washable should be laundered, as agitation can damage rug fibers and construction. Check manufacturer instructions. When machine washing outdoor rugs, use cold water to avoid shrinking or bleeding of dyes. Add 1/2 cup of bleach or detergent with bleach alternative to the wash cycle to kill mildew. Air dry rug completely.
How do you keep outdoor rugs from getting mildew?
To deter mildew growth on outdoor rugs, allow rugs to fully dry between uses, vacuum and shake out rugs often, check regularly for mildew spots, place in sunny spots with good airflow, consider rugs with mildew-resistant construction, and use preventative measures like periodic vinegar spritzes, borax treatments, and baking soda scrubs. Proper maintenance is key for mildew prevention.
Conclusion
While mildew can be frustrating, you can get your outdoor rugs fresh, clean and mildew-free again. First assess the extent of mildew damage. For minor spot cleaning, simple scrubbing, natural pastes and vinegar work well, while extensive mildew may need a thorough bleach rinse or professional cleaning. Implement preventative care when rugs are clean to keep mildew from taking hold again. With the right methods tailored to your rug’s needs, you can eradicate mildew and regain the full enjoyment of your outdoor rugs.