How to Clean & Care for a Jute Rug
Jute rugs bring a natural warmth and timeless character to any space, but they do require special attention to keep them looking their best. If you’re wondering how to clean a jute rug without causing damage, this guide will help. As a highly absorbent natural fibre, jute needs careful handling to maintain its strength and beauty. At Nkuku, we specialise in sustainable, handcrafted
homeware that celebrates natural materials, and our expert tips will show you how to care for your jute rug so it lasts for many years. Discover more from our rugs, furniture, and homeware collections to complete your home
with thoughtful, timeless design.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin cleaning, gather a few simple supplies that will make the process easier and more effective. With these basic tools at hand, you’ll have everything you need for everyday jute rug care.
Dry cloth: Essential for blotting up any spills quickly and safely. Because jute fibres absorb moisture so readily, a dry cloth allows you to soak up liquid without oversaturating and damaging the rug.
Baking soda: A natural solution for lifting odours and light marks. Sprinkle it over affected areas, let it absorb, then vacuum away to refresh your rug without harsh chemicals.
Vacuum: Regular vacuuming keeps everyday dust and dirt at bay. Use suction only and avoid the beater bar to protect the fibres while still keeping the rug clean.
Vinegar/water solution: For stubborn stains, a gentle 50/50 mix of vinegar and water offers a safe way to dab at marks. It cleans effectively without introducing excessive moisture.
Understanding Jute: Why it Needs Special Care
Juteis a natural fibre that comes from the stalks of the jute plant, making it both biodegradable and sustainable. This eco-friendly quality is one of the reasons jute rugs are so popular in homes that value natural materials. However, the very properties that make jute beautiful also make it vulnerable. Jute is highly absorbent, which means that when it comes into contact with water, it soaks it up quickly. This makes it susceptible to moisture damage, mould, and discolouration if not treated correctly. Sunlight can also affect the appearance of jute rugs, as prolonged exposure may lead to fading. These natural sensitivities mean that while jute is an environmentally kind choice, it requires extra steps to ensure it lasts as long as possible in your home.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning a Jute Rug
Caring for a jute rug successfully means knowing what to avoid. The most important rule is to keep water to a minimum. Never soak your rug, as this can cause shrinking, discolouration, or mould growth due to its absorbent fibres. Steam cleaning or carpet shampooing is also unsuitable, as both methods introduce excessive moisture and may cause fibres to break down. Harsh chemicals such as bleach should not be used, as they weaken the natural fibres and can lead to fraying. Even vacuuming requires care: always switch off the beater bar to prevent the fibres from being pulled or agitated. If you notice a loose fibre, resist the urge to pull at it. Instead, trim it carefully with scissors to avoid damaging the weave.
How to Clean Spills and Stains from a Jute Rug
Spills and stains are bound to happen, but they don’t have to mean the end of your rug. Taking action quickly and treating stains according to their type is the most effective way to keep your rug looking fresh. Different types of stains require slightly different approaches:
Sprinkle baking soda generously over the affected area. Allow it to sit and absorb the
unwanted smell or mark, then vacuum it away thoroughly. This method refreshes
the rug without introducing moisture.
Act quickly. Blot the area immediately with a dry cloth to remove as much moisture
as possible. Once the excess has been absorbed, prepare a 50/50 solution of
water and vinegar. Dab gently onto the stain, taking care not to oversaturate
the fibres. Always use gentle dabbing rather than rubbing to avoid spreading
the stain.
Apply corn starch or talcum powder directly onto the spill. Let it sit so it can draw out the oils, then vacuum away once the powder has absorbed the residue. This
method helps tackle stubborn oily spots without water.
What to do About Jute Rugs Shedding
Shedding is a normal part of owning a jute rug, particularly when it is new. While this can seem frustrating, it is part of the natural process and can be managed with the right care. Vacuuming regularly is the best way to stay on top of shedding, but make sure to use suction only and avoid the beater bar. It’s also helpful to vacuum beneath the rug, as fibres and dust tend to collect underneath over time. Adding a rug pad is another simple step that reduces friction, protects the fibres, and extends the life of your rug. Rotating your rug regularly also helps balance wear and tear, ensuring that areas exposed to footsteps or sunlight don’t wear out faster than others.
