Jute Rug Care 101: How to Clean a Jute Rug with Ease

If you’re lucky enough to own a jute rug, you’re already familiar with the beautiful charm and earthy elegance they bring to any room. However, like any floor covering, they need a little TLC to stay in top shape. In this blog post, I’ll delve into the art of jute rug care and walk you through the steps on how to clean jute rugs effectively.

Jute rug cleaning does not need to be a mystery with this step-by-step guide!

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I held off on buying a jute rug for the longest because of hearsay…

This hearsay told me that jute rugs needed special care and were high-maintenance floor coverings.

Half true! Jute rugs do need special care but I don’t consider them to be high-maintenance.

But I love the look of woven jute and really wanted one of these natural material rugs for the high-traffic areas in our mud room and kitchen.

I started with a jute rug runner and discovered that, while there are important preventative measures, a jute rug is not that difficult to clean!

Why Jute Rugs Need Special Care

Jute area rugs are made from the natural fibers of the jute plant, which is primarily grown in the Indian subcontinent.

While these rugs are known for their strength and sustainability, they do require some special attention when it comes to cleaning. Here’s why:

1. Absorbency: Jute is a highly absorbent material, which means it can easily soak up spills and stains. However, it also means you need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid over-wetting.
2. Natural Texture: The coarse, natural fibre texture of jute rugs can trap dirt and debris more effectively than smoother rug materials. This is great for daily wear but requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.
3. Sensitivity to Moisture: Jute is sensitive to moisture and can discolor (it will turn brown!) or possibly shrink if exposed to excessive dampness. Hence, the cleaning process must avoid over-saturation.

How to Clean a Jute Rug

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of how to clean a jute rug while preserving its beauty and longevity.

Supplies You’ll Need

Before we start cleaning, gather these essential materials:

1. Vacuum Cleaner with a Brush Attachment: This will help remove surface dirt and debris.
2. Baking Soda or Dry Cleaning Powder: This will keep your rug smelling fresh.
3. Mild Dish Soap: Choose a gentle, natural dish soap without harsh chemicals.
4. White Vinegar: It’s an excellent natural cleaner and deodorizer.
5. Clean, Dry Towels: You’ll need these for blotting and drying.
6. Soft Bristle Brush or Sponge: For gently scrubbing stains.
7. A Spray Bottle: To mix your cleaning solution.

Regular Vacuuming

Start by vacuuming your jute rug on a regular basis to remove loose dirt and dust. Use the brush attachment to ensure you get deep into the fibers. Vacuuming should be part of your routine jute rug care to prevent dirt from grinding into the fibers.

To keep your rug at its freshest, sprinkle the rug with baking soda or dry shampoo before you vacuum. This is a really good idea for pet owners who are worried about furry friend scents!

Tip: If I find that I don’t have time to vacuum the rug, I make sure to take it outside and at least give it a good shake to get rid of dirt and dust.

Blotting Spills Immediately

Jute rugs are notorious for their absorbency, so it’s crucial to address a wet spill promptly. If you spill something on your rug, blot it gently with a dry, clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.

Mixing the Cleaning Solution

For general cleaning, mix a solution of 1 teaspoon of mild dish soap with a cup of warm clean water. Avoid using too much soap, as it can leave a residue on the rug.

Spot Cleaning Method

For stains or heavily soiled areas, lightly dampen a clean, white cloth or sponge with the mild detergent dish soap. Blot the stained area gently, moving from the outside of the stain toward the center. Avoid excessive scrubbing, which can damage the fibers.

Rinsing

After spot cleaning, rinse the affected area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Make sure you don’t soak the rug as excess moisture is an invitation for mildew! Just a light dampening will do. 

Vinegar Solution for Odor Removal

If your jute rug has an odor issue, create a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water in your spray bottle. Lightly mist the rug’s surface, being careful not to saturate it. The vinegar will help neutralize odors. Allow it to air dry.

Drying and Brushing

After cleaning or spot treating, allow your jute rug to air dry thoroughly. Hang it outside if possible, or position it in a well-ventilated area with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause fading.

Tip: If your rug gets too wet, you can use a hair dryer or fan to speed up the drying process. Once your rug is completely dry, use a soft brush to gently fluff the fibers. This will help restore its natural texture and appearance.

Preventative Tips for Jute Rug Care

Now that you know how to clean a jute rug, regular maintenance is important! Let’s discuss some preventative measures to keep your rug looking its best:

1. Use a Rug Pad: Placing a rug pad beneath your jute rug can help prevent slipping and add a layer of protection from dirt and moisture.
2. Rotate Your Rug: Periodically rotate your jute rug to ensure even wear and fading from sunlight exposure.
3. Shoes Off, Please: Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes before stepping onto the jute rug to reduce dirt and debris accumulation.
4. Regular Vacuuming: As mentioned earlier, regular vacuuming is your best defense against dirt and dust buildup.
5. Avoid Moisture: Keep your jute rug away from damp or humid areas to prevent mold and mildew growth.
6. Treat Stains Promptly: Address spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting into the fibers.

​FAQ’s

Q: What Happens If My Jute Rug Gets Wet?

If your jute rug gets a bit soggy, you will want to take quick action. If your rug gets too wet, the rug could lose its shape and end with a rather wonky shape. Plus, there’s a chance that mold or mildew could set in. And, let’s be honest, a damp jute rug doesn’t exactly smell great. However, with a bit of TLC, like gentle blotting and proper drying, you can get your jute rug back to its stylish, natural self in no time.

Q: How do you get dog urine out of a jute rug?

Dealing with a pup’s little “accidents” on your jute rug? No worries!

First, grab a clean cloth, and gently blot up as much of the urine as possible. Avoid rubbing, as that can push it deeper into the fibers.

Next, mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, and give the affected area a good spritz. Let it sit for a few minutes and then gently blot again with a clean cloth or paper towel.

If there’s still a faint odor, sprinkle a little baking soda over the area, let it sit for a bit, and then vacuum it up. Your jute rug will be back to smelling fresh in no time, and your furry friend will thank you for your quick cleanup skills!

Q: How do you clean a discolored jute rug?

If your beloved jute rug has started to show signs of discoloration, you can revive its natural beauty! Begin by mixing a solution of gentle dish soap and lukewarm water. Using a soft cloth or sponge, lightly blot the discolored areas with this mixture, being careful not to oversaturate the rug. Then, rinse with a clean, damp cloth and gently blot again to remove any residue.

For stubborn discoloration, you can try a mixture of white vinegar and water in a 1:2 ratio. Again, blot the affected areas, rinse, and blot once more to ensure no soap or vinegar is left behind.

Finally, let your jute rug air dry completely, preferably outdoors with good ventilation, ensuring it’s completely moisture-free before putting it back in its place. With a little TLC, your discolored jute rug can return to its former, vibrant self.

A Jute Rug DIY

Want to give your jute rug a fun DIY makeover? Try painting your jute rug!

This is a fun DIY project that will give your rug a trendy checkerboard design as well as increase its versatility. (You can just flip it back over when you want a solid rug!)

Jute Rug Joy

Cleaning jute rugs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right materials, a gentle touch, and a little know-how, you can keep your jute rug looking beautiful and in good condition for a long time.

Remember that prevention is key, so establish a routine of regular vacuuming and prompt stain removal. Your jute rug will continue to grace your home with its natural elegance and rustic charm. 

Cheers!

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