What Not to Do When Cleaning Jute Rugs
With jute rugs, water is ok only in very small does. Completly soaking the jut rug in water may lead to even further damage or discoloring of the rug. Jute rugs can turn brown when they are wet.
Steam cleaning, washing, and shampooing these rugs are not recommended.
When using water for spot treating, do not twist or wring the wet fabric. Jute fiber should be handled gently.
Quickly drying is very important anytime water is used in treating. This is to avoid water setting in and staining and to prevent discoloration.
Regular Cleaning
We always recommend regular cleaning with Jute rugs.
Regular cleaning is important for jute rugs because it removes dust, dirt, and grit that accumulate on the jute fibers over time. Regular cleaning also helps remove dirt that has settled into the rug.
This mainly involves regular vacuuming of your jute rug. Unless you’re treating stains, this should be most of the regular maintenance you will need to provide.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is an effective method for cleaning your jute rug after a spill takes place. Here’s how:
- Firmly press into your rug with a clean paper towel right after the spill happens, working from outside of the spill in to avoid spreading. Continue blotting, do not rub — until there is no more moisture transferred to the towel.
- Let dry. Moisture and Jute rugs do not play well together. Reduce drying time by using a hairdryer, fan, or dehumidifier.
- The stain should disappear. If it doesn’t, try cleaning with mild soap on a dampened cloth.
Keep reading for specific instructions on certain substances.
Solutions You'll Need for Spot Cleaning
The instructions above will usually work with just water. However, for tougher stains, you can consider some basic homemade cleaning solutions.
Detergent solution: 1 tsp. laundry detergent (without bleach) dissolved into 1 cup lukewarm water
Vinegar solution: ¼ cup white vinegar mixed with ¼ cup water
- Ammonia Solution: Mix one tablespoon of clear household ammonia with ½ cup of lukewarm water.
- Commercial Dry Cleaning Solvent: For tough stains, you may need more than the first two options listed above. A safe dry cleaning solvent we recommend comes from Fabric Farms and is for use with fabrics with manufacturer cleaning code S only. For use on dry-clean-only fabrics and natural fibers.
- Dry Cleaning Powder: For a dry cleaning powder, we recommend HOST
Wine Stains

We’ve all been there. Spilled wine is bound to happen at some point.
When this happens, use a detergent solution. Then use the vinegar solution, then the detergent solution a second time. Lastly, use plain water, blotting between each step. Let dry.
Blood Stains
For blood stains on your jute rug, use a dry cleaning solvent.
Lipstick Stains
For Lipstick stains, use a dry cleaning solvent, then detergent solution, followed by plain water. Be sure to blot between each step.
Chocolate Stains

For chocolate stains, use a detergent solution, then the ammonia solution. Then use a vinegar solution, followed by the detergent solution a second time. Lastly, use plain water. Be sure to blot between each step.
Pet/Urine Stains

For pet stains, use a detergent solution. Then use a vinegar solution, followed by a detergent solution a second time. Lastly, use plain water. Be sure to blot between each step.
Cooking Oil Stains
For cooking oil stains, use a dry cleaning solvent, then the detergent solution, followed by plain water. Be sure to blot between each step.
Gum
To treat gum, place an ice cube inside a plastic bag and rub it over the gum. The plastic bag helps with the melting ice. Rub the ice over the gum until the gum hardens. The frozen gum is easier to remove since the process causes the molecules to contract and relax its bond to the carpet.
Consutling a Professional Cleaning Service
When all else fails, you may be left with the only available option to seek help from a professional on those stubon stains. Be sure to find a professional cleaner that has experience with natural fiber rugs or that specializes in cleaning natural fiber rugs. Typically, these professionals have technicians that are trained to use the most effective techniques and they often have access to the best tools in the cleaning industry.
Preventative Care
There are preventative measures you can take for your natural fiber rug to protect them and to give them a longer life.
- If your rug does not have a rug pad, consider adding one. This can help against wear and tear.
- Consider using a Stain Guard. Stain guards can help repel water, resist liquid spills and reduce soiling. We recommend Force Field Fabric Protector.
We hope these suggestions help you with how to clean your jute rug against any type of substance. Again, be careful with water. No shampooing, wash machine or steam cleaning. And when possible, always try to consult a professional when needed.