How to Clean and Care for Your Picnic Rug: A Step-by-Step Guide

When the sun is shining and the outdoors beckon, nothing is more warming and pleasing than spreading your picnic rug and enjoying a good meal among greenery under the gleaming blue sky.

Although picnicking can give you a moment to reflect on yourself and have a great time with your family or friends, it can also give you a headache with spills, stains, and general wear and tear on your picnic rug. 

Do you wonder how to clean a picnic rug or picnic blanket so that you can extend the life of your comfortable picnic rug? Then, this guide can take you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your picnic rugs and blankets yourself. 

How to Clean and Dry a Picnic Rug?

Cleaning your picnic rugs and blankets is one of the crucial steps in maintaining them for an extended life. Follow these steps to make the 'how to clean a picnic rug' process easier. 

• Shake it out

After outdoor use, it is more likely that your picnic rugs might be holding dirt, crumbs, and debris. So, give it a good and hard shake so that it at least gets free from some of the dust. Doing so can prevent your blankets and rugs from absorbing dirt particles into the fabric. 

• Spot and Clean Stains

If there are any strains or spills, you must tackle them promptly. You can use an eco-friendly stain remover or mix mild soap with water to remove marks. Only pat the stain and avoid rubbing it to stop it from spreading further. 

• Machine Washable 

Check the care label of your rugs to know if they can go into washing machines. Put them on a gentle cycle with cold water if they can go. Use mild detergents and refrain from using bleach or other chemicals. 

• Hand Wash 

If your picnic rug is not machine washable, you can wash it with your hands in a bathtub or large basin. Fill it with cold water, add a pinch of mild detergent, and gently mix them. Later, rinse your rugs, leaving no water on them. 

• Air Dry

Using a tumble dryer for picnic accessories can damage the fabric and waterproof coating, while exposing the washed materials to the sun can cause fading. Instead, hang it outdoors in the shade, spreading the whole rug to dry naturally. 

Likewise, you can make the 'how to clean a picnic blanket' process effective by including other materials, such as cushion covers and tote bags.

How to Fold Picnic Rugs and Blankets?

Folding clothes is like solving a puzzle where each piece fits perfectly into place. Proper folding will help you store it better and prevent creases and damage. Here's how you can do it:

• Flat Surface 

Find a flat, clean surface that supports spreading and folding the picnic rugs. A table or the floor can work better, including a semi-smooth bed. 

• Shake and Brush 

Before folding, shake your rugs and blankets to remove any remaining dust or debris. You can use a smooth and soft brush to sweep off dirt from the accessories. 

• Fold in Havles 

Start by folding the rug in half and ensuring both the top and bottom edges align perfectly lengthwise. Also, clear any wrinkles with a soft touch as you go. 

• Fold in Thirds 

Then, fold the half-folded rugs in thirds by maintaining a consistent width, which appears in a rectangle shape. 

• Roll and Store

Once folded in thirds, you can roll it from one end to the other and use straps or ties to maintain the consistency of the roll. You can also use blowers to blow out the air while protecting rugs from the elements with plastic bags. 

Why do Picnic Rugs have a Seam?

Many picnic blankets and rugs have a seam running like a line in the middle, and there are several benefits to it. Some of them are:

• Durability:The seam provides supplemental strength, making your rug robust against wear and tear. It extends the life of your picnic blanket.
• Folding Convenience:Since the line mostly runs in the middle, the seam provides a natural fold line. It makes it easier for you to fold the rug neatly and perfectly.
• Design Versatility:Adding more patterns and designs to your rug makes it look more attractive and creative. 

Why Storing Damp Rugs is Not the Best Idea?

One common mistake most picnic lovers make is storing their rugs and blankets while they are damp. Here is why you should not do it:

• Mold

A damp blanket or rug is like a loaf of bread stored longer. Dampness can lead to the growth of mold, which can damage the fabric and cause an unpleasant smell.

• Stains

Due to the lack of sources to dry, moisture also causes stains. It can worsen when mold sets in, and it can be challenging to remove them later. 

• Odor

As mold grows and stains set in, the smell of the blanket starts to change slowly. They develop a musty odor, which is unpleasant for your next picnic outing.

Always store your picnic blankets and rugs only when they are dry to prevent these issues. 

How to Remove Stains from Picnic Blankets Immediately?

Some stains need your attention immediately to be removed, while others can go away even after a while. Here is how you can remove stains from your picnic blanket on the spot:

• Food stains

Start by removing solid debris from the fabric and gently blotting away any liquids with a cloth or paper towel. Then, use soap and water to clean the stain and let it air dry naturally.

• Beverage Stains 

Grab a clean cloth or paper towel and blot the area if you spill wine, coffee, or juice. Then, rinse it with a mixture of mild detergent and water.

• Grease Stains 

Remove the excess grease with a knife and sprinkle baking soda to absorb the oil. After a few minutes, remove the powder and treat it with a mild detergent solution.

How to Find the Perfect Picnic Blanket for You?

The right picnic blanket can improve your outdoor experience. Here are some factors to consider when choosing one for you:

1. Size: Understand how many people will be using the blanket. 
2. Material type: Choose the material based on the area you picnic in. The common ones are fleece, waterproof, and traditional picnic rug materials like cotton and polyester.
3. Design and pattern: Picnic blankets come in several designs and colors. Choose the rug or blanket that better suits your taste. 
4. Portability: Choose a blanket that is easy to fold, carry, and store. Some even come with handles. 
5. Durability: Check the quality of the fabric and stitches to use it long-term. 
6. Additionals: Some picnic blankets have built-in pockets, straps, or tote bags. 

To care for your picnic blanket, keep it away from sharp objects, inspect the seams regularly, store it properly, and use a carry bag to take it to picnic sites.

Conclusion

Choosing the best picnic rug is essential to having a better picnic day. A well-cared-for picnic rug can be your trusted companion for outdoor adventures, providing comfort and style. However, the real problem lies in dealing with its maintenance. With the right measures like those mentioned above, you will not only tackle situations like ‘how to clean a picnic rug’ and ‘how to clean a picnic blanket’ but also keep your picnic rug clean and stain-free. 

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