White rugs add just the right accent to most rooms, but keeping them clean can be a difficult chore. Discover our steps for keeping your white rug clean and stain-free, as well as tips and tricks for keeping it looking its best in between cleanings.
Understanding the Fabric
White rugs aren’t a one-size-fits-all situation, especially when it comes to cleaning.
- Whether your white rug is made from delicate natural fibers like wool or something a bit more resilient like synthetic materials, understanding its fabric is your key to long-lasting beauty.
- Before diving into any cleaning, always check the manufacturer’s label.
- Some rug materials might require a gentle touch, while others are more tolerant of a deep scrub. White wool, for instance, loves a good gentle cleaning, while white synthetics and other rugs might handle steam cleaning like a champ.
How to Clean a White Rug
What You’ll Need:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Mild laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled brush
- Natural carpet stain remover
- Microfiber cloth
- Optional: Steam cleaner for deep stains
Steps:
- Take your white rug outside and give it a good shake to remove dust, dirt, and other debris.
- Slowly vacuum the white rug to coax out all the dirt from its fibers. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas, and don’t forget to flip the rug over and vacuum the underside. If your white rug has excessive pet or human hair, go over the white rug with a lint roller or a brush.
- For treating spills or stains, a mixture of water and a gentle detergent can work wonders on white rugs. Just make sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the detergent won’t cause any discoloration on white fabric. Apply the solution with a soft brush to the white rug fabric and work it into the stain with gentle circular motions. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and blot dry.
- If the stain persists, apply a natural stain remover to the white fabric, and let it sit anywhere between 15 minutes to up to an hour. Alternatively, you can also clean the white rug with a mixture of white vinegar and water. Follow up with some baking soda to absorb any remaining moisture and odor—just sprinkle it on, let it sit, and then vacuum it up.
Pro tip: For feces and pet stains on white rugs, use a natural pet stain and odor remover, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Apply it to the stain to loosen it from the fibers.
- Disinfect the rug using a light spray of white vinegar across the surface of the rug followed by a good airing out.
- When it’s time for a deeper clean for your white rug, consider steam cleaning. Steam cleaning not only lifts deep-seated dirt from white fabrics but also disinfects naturally, thanks to the heat. Just be sure your rug can handle the moisture and heat—again, check the label before proceeding.
Pro tip: For those days when a quick clean is all you have time for, focus on spot cleaning and vacuuming to extend the life of your white rug.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
Speaking of natural solutions for rugs, there’s a lot you can do with what’s already in your pantry.
- Baking soda and white vinegar: Combine the two for a powerhouse for rug odor removal,
- Baking soda and water: Apply, let it sit on the rug, and then vacuum away once dry.
- Lemon and salt: Create a mixture of lemon juice and salt on the white rug fabric. Sprinkle it onto the rug stain to break up odors.
Maintenance Tips
Now that your white rug’s sparkling clean, let’s keep it that way.
- Regular rug vacuuming white fabrics is a must. Not only does it keep dirt from settling deep into the fibers, but it also fluffs them up, helping your white rug maintain that fresh, just-bought look.
- Rotate your white rug every few months to ensure even wear, and if possible, keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. And, of course, address spills and stains on white fabrics immediately.
- If you have pets or babies, you’re likely hyper-aware of the products you use. Stick to environmentally-friendly cleaners, and steer clear of anything with harsh chemicals.
