How To Clean Jute Rugs

30 January 2017
 Categories: , Blog


If you have a stained or dirty jute rug, some DIY cleaning can make it look new again. Sometimes, jute is called hessian or burlap, and they may be mixed with synthetic fibers to make them stronger.

Jute is soft and durable, but it often stains or discolors easily. These rugs cannot be shampooed or steam cleaned. Here are tips to clean a jute rug.

Prepare to Work 

For this task, you need:

  • work gloves
  • bucket
  • white rags or white paper towels
  • vacuum
  • mild liquid detergent
  • white vinegar (optional)
  • club soda (optional)
  • baking soda
  • fan or hair dryer
  • vacuum cleaner
  • dry cleaning powder
  • jute sealer

Vacuum the rug to remove as much debris as possible, moving in various directions to get the most dirt. Never use a beater bar on jute. Move the rug away from heavy foot traffic, if possible.

Dry Spills

Spot test cleaners in a hidden area before you apply them,.Try to clean the rug on a breezy, sunny day, since this type of rug needs to dry quickly. Moisture that remains in the rug could damage and weaken it.

For large spills, use a fan or hair dryer to dry up as much of the liquid as possible.

Blot small spills with a white cloth or paper towel. Don't rub or you may spread the stain. You may need to blot the back of the rug if the spill is deep in the rug.

Clean the Spills

Let thick spills (peanut butter, vomit, ketchup, etc) dry, then scrape the stain with a butter knife or spatula. Use club soda to neutralize acidic spills.

Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent in cool water. A mild detergent is commonly used to wash delicates. Don't use hot water, since it causes shrinkage. Dip the rag or paper towel in the mixture, and avoid getting it too wet. Blot the stain

For pet urine, combine equal parts of white vinegar and water. Dip the rag or paper towel in the mixture, and blot the stain.

For deep cleaning, buy a dry cleaning kit. Test it first on a hidden area.

Deodorize and Seal

To combat odors, sprinkle baking soda over the rug. Let the baking soda stand overnight, and vacuum the next morning. A jute sealer will protect the rug against stains.

To keep your jute rug looking good, vacuum regularly and flip it over periodically. If you don't trust your skill or the stains still remain, hire a professional cleaning service.


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