Why do rugs smell bad?
Your nose can detect about a trillion different scents–and not all of them are fun to smell. As much as we would like to avoid bad smells, they do happen around the house. It’s easy to blame a stinky sock or a load of dishes in the sink, but sometimes foul smells come from right under your feet.
Common Causes of Rug Odor
Here are a few common causes of rug odor, plus advice on how to combat the funk.
Pets
No matter how cute and cuddly your pet is, they can be one of the big reasons why your rug smells musty. For starters, their hair can carry odor. Too much shedding or rolling around on your rug and it’s bound to put up a stink.
Pets are also prone to accidents. Pet urine and vomit can throw a rug’s aroma out of whack. They easily seep into fibers, and the bacteria can linger after cleaning, causing more smelly issues. Even if you have a rug that is pet friendly, it’s good to check this common cause of rug smell.
Moisture
No matter how hard you try, your rugs will get damp from time to time. Left wet for too long, you’ll have a smelly situation on your hands. Prolonged exposure to moisture can give rugs a musty smell caused by mold or mildew. Even if you have a spotless home, a rug that is not kept in a dry place will be susceptible to an unpleasant musk.
Smoke
If you’ve ever been to a bonfire, you know that smoke loves to soak into fabric. If your rug has been in a house with someone who smokes cigarettes, that smell has likely been absorbed into its fibers. The same goes for a rug that has been in a house fire or other smokey situations. No matter the source, smoke is a sure fire way to make a rug smell pretty bad.
Fresh as a Daisy
While rug smells are annoying, you don’t have to let them stink up the place. Here are some ways to clean a smelly rug.
Initial Steps to Freshen Up Your Rug
Vacuum.
Before you do anything, give your rug a good vacuum. Ensure it is free of debris that could be causing the odor, especially where pets are concerned. Vacuuming regularly can help reduce the buildup of hair and dirt, which can contribute to bad smells.
Fresh air.
Get your rug outside! Time in the sun can dry out the rug, while UV rays combat bacteria and mildew. Exposing the rug to open air can also help clear out musty smellsbad smells. You can place your rug on a tarp or hang it over a fence to let it catch the breeze. Just be sure to flip it after a couple hours to expose both sides.
Natural Odor Absorbers
Charcoal.
It’s not just for barbeques. Charcoal is also known for its power to absorb odor. Place additive-free charcoal briquettes in pantyhose and then arrange them on your rug. Next, roll up the rug, wrap it in a plastic bag, and let the charcoal do its work. This method is particularly effective for rugs with persistent smells.
Host Dry Carpet Cleaner.
Another option for absorbing odor is The Host Dry Carpet Cleaner. It's 100% plant-based and Green Seal Certified, so it meets industrial and institutional standards. So you can have a cleaner smelling carpet without the environmental harm. Try sprinkling it over your rug. Let that sit for a couple days to give it enough time to reduce the smell.
Cleaning Solutions.
There are both natural and chemical treatments you can use to clean your rug.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile and natural deodorizer. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over your rug and let it sit for several hours, or overnight if possible. Vacuum up the baking soda to reveal a fresher-smelling rug.
White Vinegar and Water Solution
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution on the smelly areas of your rug, being careful not to saturate it. Allow the rug to air dry completely to ensure no excess moisture is left behind, which can cause further odors.
Hydrogen Peroxide
For tough odors and stains, hydrogen peroxide can be a powerful solution. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and apply it to the affected areas. Test this solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t bleach the rug fibers.
Professional Cleaning
If the smell persists, it might be time to call the professionals. Professional carpet cleaners have the tools and expertise to deep clean your rug, removing odors and stains that household methods can’t tackle.
Machine Washable Rugs
Laundry.
If your rug is machine washable, there is no reason not to try throwing it in the wash. Be sure to follow any directions given on washing your rug and have an open, ventilated place for it to dry. Make sure the rug is completely dry before placing it back in your room to prevent any musty smells from developing.
Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Rug
Regular Cleaning
Regularly cleaning your rug can prevent the buildup of odors. Vacuum at least once a week, and more frequently in high-traffic areas or homes with pets.
Managing Moisture
Keep your rugs dry. If a spill occurs, clean it up immediately and ensure the rug dries completely. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas to reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Storage Tips
If you need to store your rug, make sure it is clean and completely dry. Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent any musty smells from developing.
Walking On (Fresh) Air
No matter the type of rug you own, now you have a better idea of why your rug might smell bad and how to fix the stinky problem. Want to start with something fresh under your feet? Check out our huge selection of custom rugs.
