Outdoor carpeting can be a great way to add visual appeal and comfort to concrete surfaces like patios, pool decks, and walkways. However, outdoor carpets are exposed to dirt, debris, weather, and heavy foot traffic, so they require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Cleaning outdoor carpet on concrete takes a bit more effort than indoor carpet, but it’s doable with the right techniques and tools. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively clean outdoor carpeting installed on concrete.
Why It’s Important to Clean Outdoor Carpet
Keeping your outdoor carpeting clean is important for several reasons:
- Extend its life – Regular cleaning keeps outdoor carpet fibers from matting down and suffering damage over time. A well-maintained carpet can last for many years.
- Health reasons – Outdoor carpets trap everything from dirt and leaves to spills and pet messes. Regular cleaning limits mold and bacteria growth.
- Aesthetics – A clean carpet simply looks better and is more inviting. Dirty, matted outdoor carpeting is an eyesore.
- Safety – Debris and moisture trapped in an outdoor carpet can make it slippery and hazardous to walk on. Cleaning improves traction.
Supplies Needed to Clean Outdoor Carpet
Cleaning outdoor carpet requires having the right supplies on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Broom or vacuum – A stiff-bristled broom, vacuum, or outdoor vacuum is needed to remove loose dirt and debris from the top of the carpet.
- Garden hose – Use a garden hose with a pressure nozzle to rinse and flush the carpet.
- Cleaning solution – Look for cleaners made specifically for outdoor carpet. They contain enzymes and detergents to break down stains and odors.
- Scrub brush – For stubborn stains, use a stiff scrub brush to work in cleaning solution.
- Wet/dry shop vac – This specialty vac easily sucks up excess water when cleaning is complete.
- Degreaser – For oil stains, apply a carpet degreaser before the cleaning solution.
- Baking soda – Helpful for absorbing odors and some stains. Sprinkle on and let sit before vacuuming.
- White vinegar – Mixed with water, vinegar helps remove bacteria and brighten carpet fibers.
- Face mask – Wearing a mask limits inhaling dust and dirt shaken loose from the carpet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Outdoor Carpet
Once you’ve gathered the proper supplies, follow these steps to thoroughly clean outdoor carpet:
1. Remove Debris and Loose Dirt
- Use a stiff broom or vacuum designed for outdoor use to remove all leaves, sticks, accumulated dirt and debris from the top of the carpet.
- Run a vacuum over entire carpet, going back and forth in different directions.
- Remove cushions or movable carpet sections to sweep and vacuum underneath base.
- This prevents embedded debris from grinding down into the carpet backing as you clean.
2. Mix Cleaning Solution
- Mix an outdoor carpet detergent with warm water according to label directions in a bucket.
- For really dirty spots, pre-treat with a carpet degreaser. Let sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
- For pet urine stains and odors, mix in an enzyme cleaner.
3. Apply Cleaning Mixture
- Use a spray nozzle on your garden hose to thoroughly rinse and wet entire carpet.
- Apply mixed cleaning solution liberally over dampened carpet using a spray bottle.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Don’t let cleaning solution dry on carpet.
- Use a stiff scrub brush to work solution into heavily soiled areas and stains.
4. Rinse Away Cleaning Solution
- Rinse carpet thoroughly with garden hose, flushing away cleaning solution and loosened dirt.
- Avoid spraying directly at seams to limit delamination.
- Use a shop vac to suck up excess water and speed drying time.
5. Allow Carpet to Dry
- When moisture no longer squishes from carpet with applied foot pressure, laying is complete.
- Allow carpet to completely air dry before replacing cushions or walking on it.
- Drying time depends on humidity, sun exposure, and thickness of carpet pile.
- You may need to periodically flip the carpet over to dry the underside.
- Running a fan over the carpet can also speed drying time.
Tips for Cleaning Different Outdoor Carpet Materials
Outdoor carpeting comes in several different pile materials, each requiring a slightly different approach:
Polypropylene
This synthetic fiber is stain resistant and durable. Clean with a carpet shampoo solution. Avoid excessive heat when drying, which can melt the fibers.
Olefin
Also a synthetic, olefin has good fade resistance. Use a carpet cleaner safe for synthetic blends. Do not use excessive heat to dry.
Polyester
Polyester carpets are budget-friendly but less stain resistant. Pre-treat any stains before shampooing. Limit heat exposure when drying.
Wool
Natural wool is stain resistant but may shrink if oversaturated. Use a wool-safe cleaner and allow to fully air dry. Do not apply heat.
Nylon
Nylon offers the best durability and stain protection. Clean with a standard outdoor carpet shampoo. Limit direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Rubber-backed
Clean as usual but avoid soaking the latex backing, which can lead to delamination. Take extra care when rinsing.
Best Practices for Outdoor Carpet Care and Maintenance
Regular, thorough cleaning is key to keeping outdoor carpets looking their best. Here are some extra maintenance tips:
- Vacuum weekly to prevent dirt from becoming embedded.
- Immediately rinse food and drink spills to prevent staining. Blot with a towel.
- Spot clean messes like oil, grease and pet accidents with a targeted cleaner.
- During snowy winters, frequently remove snow buildup to prevent matting and mold.
- Every few months, deep clean the entire carpet using the steps outlined above.
- For high traffic areas, consider occasional restorative cleaning by a professional service.
- Fluff and smooth the carpet pile with your fingers after cleaning is complete.
- Replace outdoor carpet cushions and pads every few years when they become packed down.
- Consider reapplying acrylic latex backing every 2-3 years to reinforce seams and prevent delamination.
Solutions for Common Outdoor Carpet Cleaning Issues
Problem: Pet urine or oil stains keep reappearing after cleaning.
Solution: Re-treat those areas with an enzyme cleaner or degreaser before rinsing. This will help fully break down the organic compounds in tough stains.
Problem: Musty odors return quickly after cleaning.
Solution: Treat odor sources with an enzymatic cleaner. Then deodorize by sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming up.
Problem: Carpet is prone to mold and mildew growth.
Solution: Allow carpet to dry fully between cleanings. Treat problem areas with vinegar and thoroughly rinse. Improve drainage if carpeting stays damp.
Problem: Cleaning solution foams up excessively.
Solution: Avoid overapplying detergent. Rinse with vinegar solution to eliminate soap residue. Switch to a low-foam cleaner for outdoor carpets.
Problem: Carpet color looks faded.
Solution: Limit sunlight exposure by moving or covering carpet when not in use. Restore vibrancy with carpet dye.
When to Call a Professional for Outdoor Carpet Cleaning
With the right methods, cleaning outdoor carpet yourself is very doable. In some cases, however, calling in the pros can be beneficial:
- For older, heavily soiled carpeting, a deep professional clean can bring it back to life.
- Professional equipment offers more thorough cleaning of grease, oil stains and ground-in dirt.
- Professional extractors thoroughly rinse away cleaning solutions so they don’t attract more dirt.
- Professionals can spot clean just high traffic areas for cost savings versus overall cleaning.
- They have equipment to quickly dry carpet to prevent mold issues.
- Professionals can examine seam integrity and re-adhere areas coming loose.
- If a pet urine odor problem is out of control, a pro has the right chemicals to fully remove all traces.
- They can restore sun-faded areas with dye and rejuvenate matted pile with grooming tools.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Outdoor Carpets on Concrete
Can I use my household carpet cleaner on outdoor carpeting?
No, most standard carpet cleaners are not formulated for outdoor carpet fabrics and more abrasive outdoor stains. Harsh chemical residues can be left behind, making the carpet re-soil more quickly.
What is the best way to dry an outdoor carpet?
After cleaning, use a wet/dry shop vacuum to extract excess moisture. Then allow the carpet to completely air dry. Direct sunlight and airflow will speed drying time. Flipping the carpet over halfway through allows both sides to dry.
How often should outdoor carpeting be deep cleaned?
Plan to deep clean the entire outdoor carpet at least two times per year. During high traffic seasons or times with lots of rain or snow, quarterly cleanings are better. Always clean stains and spills right away.
Will cleaning remove the latex backing on outdoor carpets?
Avoid directing high pressure spraying at the latex-reinforced seams. Limit soaking time of cleaning solutions. Take care when rinsing not to over-saturate seams. The latex backing should remain intact if proper cleaning precautions are taken.
What is the best way to clean outdoor carpet on stairs?
Use a hand scrub brush and small amounts of cleaning solution applied only to the treads. Rinse stairs carefully. To limit water being absorbed into wood framing under stair carpets, dry quickly with fans.
Conclusion
Cleaning an outdoor carpet installed on a concrete surface provides unique challenges compared to indoor carpeting. With the proper methods and right cleaners, outdoor carpeting can maintain its beauty despite the harsh outdoor elements. Pay special attention to thoroughly rinsing away cleaning solutions and allowing proper drying time when tackling outdoor carpet cleaning projects. Consistent maintenance goes a long way to preserving your investment in outdoor carpeting.