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How to Clean Pet Stains From a Jute Rug

S.R. Becker
Dogs and cats can leave stains on natural rugs.

Jute rugs have a reputation for being easy to clean, which makes them ideal for high-traffic areas. Regular vacuuming is usually all it takes to keep a jute rug clean, but pet stains present a challenge. Jute doesn't handle moisture well, so if a dog or cat urinates on the rug, you might think you have to throw the rug out. However, if you catch the pet accident quickly enough, you have a better chance of getting the stain out.

Step 1

Blot the stain immediately with a clean white cloth or paper towel. Use as many towels as you need until you can absorb no more moisture from the rug. If the stain is solid and dried, scrape away as much as you can with a disposable plastic knife.

Step 2

Vacuum the rug thoroughly or take it outdoors and shake it well, especially if the animal vomited food on the rug and you didn't catch it in time. Shaking and vacuuming remove particles you might not see.

Step 3

Pour white vinegar or enzyme cleaner, sold in spray bottles in pet stores, into a spray bottle and spritz the stain, then blot immediately. Repeat this step until none of the pet stain remains.

Step 4

Lay the rug outside on a clean surface to dry in the sun, which may help remove stains and odors.

Tip

If the pet stain is large, the rug is not colorfast, or you don't want to get the rug wet, hire a carpet-cleaning service that does dry extraction carpet cleaning.

Warning

Always test cleaners on an inconspicuous area of the rug before spraying them on the front.