How to Clean and Store Outdoor Rugs for Winter: Step-by-Step Guide

 



It's time to give your camping and outdoor rugs the care they need as the year comes to an end. Deep cleaning and appropriate winter storage are essential if you want your rug to look (and smell) brand new come springtime. A quick shake won't do.  

 
Our rugs at Green Decore are made to withstand the weather, but like any other home essential, they can be made to last longer with careful seasonal maintenance. This is your comprehensive guide to caring for your rug during the off-season, covering cleaning, storage, and mould prevention. 

Why Post-Season Rug Care is Essential 

Outdoor rugs are constantly exposed to: 

  • Sunlight and UV rays 

  • Dirt and foot traffic 

  • Moisture from rain or morning dew 

Even though our rugs are UV-protected and weather-resistant, prolonged exposure without proper maintenance can lead to fading, fibre damage, or mildew. Taking time to deep clean and store them properly can extend their lifespan by years. 

Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean Outdoor & Camping Rugs 

1. Shake Off Dust and Debris 

Start by shaking the rug or beating it over a fence to release trapped dirt—especially important for camping rugs used on sand or soil. 

2. Vacuum Both Sides 

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove finer particles, especially around corners and edges. 

3. Wash with Mild Soap 

Mix warm water with a mild detergent. Use a soft-bristle brush and gently scrub in circles. Our polypropylene straw rugs handle this well—they’re quick-drying and non-absorbent. 

4. Rinse Well 

Use a garden hose to rinse both sides thoroughly. Ensure all soap is removed to avoid future grime buildup. 

 

Say Goodbye to Mould and Mildew 

Moisture is your biggest enemy in rug storage. Even mould-resistant rugs can develop mildew if they’re put away while damp. Here’s how to prevent it: 

  • Air-dry thoroughly in sunlight before storing 

  • Spray vinegar and water (1:1) to disinfect and prevent odour 

  • Avoid folding when damp hang rugs if possible 

Sunlight helps kill bacteria and keeps your rug fresh naturally. 

 

Storing Rugs: Folding or Rolling? 

Folding is ideal for rugs with built-in fold lines or pouches perfect for camping rugs. 
Rolling is great for larger rugs, helping avoid deep creases. 

Whichever method you choose, make sure your rug is clean and bone dry. 

 

Safe & Effective Rug Cleaning Products 

You don’t need fancy cleaners—just the right approach: 

  • Mild dish soap + water – for regular cleaning 

  • White vinegar – natural odour control and disinfectant 

  • Baking soda paste – for tougher stains 

  • Soft cloth or brush – avoid abrasives 

⚠️ Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals—these can damage fibres and fade colours. 

 

Where & How to Store Rugs for Winter 

  • Pick a dry, sheltered space – closets, under beds, or storage trunks work great 

  • Wrap rugs in cotton fabric or old sheets—never in airtight plastic 

  • Add moisture absorbers like silica gel packets 

  • Store flat or upright, avoiding heavy weight on top 

 

Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Outdoor Rugs 

  • Rotate rugs throughout the season to prevent uneven wear 

  • Clean spills immediately 

  • Avoid stacking heavy furniture on top when stored 

 

Special Note for Camping Rugs 

Our Green Decore camping rugs often include handy features like: 

  • Stakes and loops – remove and store neatly 

  • Compact fold lines – easy to pack away 

  • Portable packaging – perfect for campervans, cars, or backpacks 

Be sure to spot-clean food spills and fold along original seams before storing. 

 

FAQs: Rug Cleaning & Storage 

Q1: How can I tell if my rug is dry enough? 
Touch the underside. If it feels even slightly damp, leave it out longer. 

Q2: What if it smells musty after storage? 
Sprinkle baking soda, leave for an hour, vacuum, then sun-dry for a full day. 

Q3: Can I store rugs outside under a cover? 
Not recommended. Moisture still seeps in and affects material quality. 

Q4: Is pressure washing safe? 
No. Use a gentle hose spray instead to avoid fibre damage. 

Q5: Can I stack multiple rugs for storage? 
Yes—just place cloth layers in between to allow air circulation and prevent colour transfer. 

 

Related Reads from Green Decore: 

 

Final Thoughts 

A little off-season maintenance makes a big difference. Your Green Decore rug will remain vibrant, fresh, and prepared for patio parties, beach vacations, or glamping weekends come springtime with the right cleaning regimen, mold prevention, and clever storage.  
 
Save time and money by investing in care now! 🌿 

 

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Decorate Your Home with Yellow Rugs?

Image
  When it comes to home decor, choosing the right colo u rs can make a significant impact on the overall ambi e n ce of your living space. One shade t hat's often overlooked but can add a sunny and vibrant touch to your home is yellow. Yellow rugs are an excellent choice for those looking to infuse warmth and energy into their interior design. In this blog, we'll explore how to decorate your home with yellow rugs, providing you with inspiration for various rooms and outdoor spaces. Decorating with Yellow Living Room Rugs The living room is often the heart of the home, where family and friends gather to relax and sociali s e . Decorating with yellow living room rugs create s a welcoming and cheerful atmosphere. Here are some ideas:   Cent re of Attention : Place a large yellow rug in the cent re of your living room to serve as a focal point. This will instantly brighten up the space and create a co s y atmosphere. Contrast with Neutrals : Pair a yellow rug with neutr...
Read more

The Subtle Elegance of Beige Rugs: Why Should You Consider Them?

Image
In the world of interior design, where trends come and go, certain elements stand the test of time. Beige rugs , with their understated charm and versatile appeal, fall squarely into this category. While beige may be seen by some as a safe or neutral choice, it's precisely this subtlety that lends itself to creating a canvas of elegance within y our living spaces. In this blog, we will unravel the exquisite allure of beige rugs and uncover why they deserve a prime spot in y our interior design j our ney.   An Introduction to Beige Rugs : Beige, often synonymous with tranquility and neutrality, is a col o u r that can effortlessly blend into a myriad of design aesthetics. Beige rugs, with their soft and inviting tones, provide a foundation that allows you to build a space that is both sophisticated and welcoming. These rugs serve as a backdrop for y our creativity, inviting you to experiment with various furnishings, col o u r s , and textures. Why You Should Consider Beige ...
Read more

7 Bedroom Rug Ideas to Recreate in Your Home

Image
When it comes to designing and decorating our bedrooms, we often focus on the larger elements such as furniture, wall colour and lighting. However, there's one often-overlooked element that can significantly enhance the co s iness and aesthetic appeal of your bedroom rugs .    Bedroom rug s not only add warmth and comfort underfoot but also provide an opportunity to infuse your personal style into the space. From colours to patterns to si z es, these rug s can transform the ambi e nce of your sanctuary. Washable Bedroom Rugs Before we dive into the inspiring world of bed side rug ideas, let's take a moment to highlight the practicality of washable bedroom carpet . With the bedroom being a sanctuary of relaxation, it's crucial to have rugs that are easy to clean and maintain . Washable rugs are a game-changer in this regard, as they offer the perfect blend of style and functionality. These rugs are designed to withstand spills, stains and foot traffic, ensuring t...
Read more