How to Clean a Jute Rug

Jute fiber is one of the best materials around for anyone looking for an eco-friendly floor covering. Jute carpets are soft, durable and easy to maintain. They are also fully biodegradable and recyclable. Regular cleaning and the proper environment will help your jute rug keep its unique feel and vibrant appearance.

What are the best environments to keep my rug in good condition?

Natural jute rugs are absorbent and can be affected by moisture. Natural fibers shrink and expand slightly with changes in humidity; too much exposure may cause the rug to change its shape and ruin the material. It is best to keep jute carpets and rugs away from high moisture areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and basements. The ideal match for a jute rug is a dry, airy room, and in a low-traffic area where it won’t be susceptible to stains and spills.

Mold and mildew are byproducts of moisture. Prevention by keeping your Jute rugs in a dry environment is the best natural remedy. If you do notice mold and mildew beginning to accumulate and you’re able to take your area rug outside, use a broom to sweep loose the mold and mildew, then vacuum the residue. Let the rug air out in the sun as long as possible before taking it back inside and repeat over a few days.. If mold and mildew persists, contact a professional cleaner.

What do I do if I spill something on my rug?

It’s best to get to work on spills as quickly as possible to avoid staining. Commercial cleaning solutions can cause further staining. Instead, start by soaking up any excess liquid with a dry white cloth. Blot the stain with a dabbing motion; rubbing will grind the stain into the fabric. For stains like red wine or tomato sauce use a cloth moistened with club soda and give the area time to dry, using a hair dryer or fan if needed. Use a mixture of one cup of vinegar and one cup of warm water on stains from soda or fruit juice. If the stain persists, use a cloth moistened with a mild soap.

Is discoloration normal for a Jute rug?

It is normal for any natural fiber floor covering to go through a subtle color change over time. There are ways to lessen the effects of age. Regular vacuuming will keep dirt and dust from collecting, and will also invigorate the fibers. Exposure to mold and mildew can also cause a color change. As previously mentioned, keep your rug in a dry room like a bedroom or den. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also affect a rug’s color. Routinely rotate your rug if it’s in an area that gets sunlight for an extended period.

How often do I need to vacuum a Jute rug?

A strong-brush suctioned vacuum is the most effective tool to help maintain the beauty and longevity of your jute area rug or carpet. Dirt and dust tends to sit loosely in natural fiber rugs. Vacuuming a few times a week will do the trick. Run the vacuum around the rug in several different directions to make sure all the dirt is removed.

Also keep moisture in mind: Never steam clean or wet-shampoo jute rugs. Instead, use a low moisture dry cleaning alternative.

The beauty of natural fiber rugs like jute is that a little maintenance can go a long way. There is no need for chemicals or special cleaning methods. Normal care like routine vacuuming, and placing it in a safe, dry environment is enough to keep your jute carpet looking healthy.

 

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