To clean a large area rug at home, vacuum both sides, spot-clean stains, then deep clean based on the rug type — a washable rug goes in the machine or a laundromat, while a large synthetic rug can be hosed down outside with mild soap. Rinse well and dry flat. The size makes it awkward, not impossible.
Step by step
- Vacuum both sides to lift loose dirt and grit.
- Spot clean stains with mild soap and water, blotting from the outside in.
- Deep clean by the method that suits your rug (below).
- Rinse until the water runs clear.
- Dry flat or over a rail until completely dry.
Deep-cleaning method by rug type
| Rug type | Best method |
|---|---|
| Machine washable | Home machine or laundromat, cold gentle |
| Large synthetic | Hose down outside with mild soap |
| Wool | Cool water only, never soak or steam |
| Antique / delicate | Professional cleaning |
For wool specifically, follow how to clean a wool area rug. For general technique, see how to wash an area rug, and for spills, removing stains from washable rugs.
The easiest large rug to clean
A big rug is far easier to live with when it is washable. A large low-pile machine washable rug in an 8x10 or larger folds down and goes in a laundromat machine, no professional cleaning needed. Not sure on size? See our area rug sizes guide, and read whether machine washable rugs are worth it.
Written by the Arconiz team. We work directly with Turkish manufacturers, no middleman. We test what we sell.
