How To Waterproof a Rug? [Procedure, Time & Cost]
Rug plays an important role in decorating your patio space. If you like to keep your rug attractive for an extended period, it is essential to waterproof your rug through any waterproofing methods.
Subjecting your rug to waterproofing treatments not only makes your rug resistant to mold and moisture but also saves money. Though the outdoor rugs have some resistance against sun and moisture, constant usage can easily cause a worn-out appearance for your rug.
So, it is mandatory to treat your rug (irrespective of the material, such as natural and synthetic fibers) with waterproofing sealant or sprays.
How To Waterproof a Rug?
In this article, I will share four easy and effective methods to waterproof your rug on your own.
- Scotchgard fabric protector spray method
- Rust-oleum water-repelling method
- Otter wax method
- Sealing rug using Waterproofed Fabric
1. How to Waterproof a Rug Using Scotchgard Fabric Spray Method?
Scotchgard Fabric spray method is one of the best methods to waterproof your rug since the heavy-duty variant works well on outdoor materials.
The spray contains chemical ingredients such as silicone, petroleum, and propane and it can be used on tents, canvas, outerwear, patio furniture and boats.
Scotchgard is an eco-friendly spray since it does not contain chlorofluorocarbon that acts against the ozone layer. It can be used on regular clothing and shoes as well.
This fabric protector spray can protect the surfaces from absorbing moisture, dirt and spills.
The spray can bring a new look to your rug as it prevents the settling of moisture. It also provides water and oil-based stain protection for your rug and prevents mold and bacteria.
By performing this method, you can extend the lifespan of your rug by creating protection against wear and tear.
Required Items
- Scotchgard fabric protector spray
- Sheets/paper
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Prepare
- Place sheets on the floor to prepare the workspace.
- Wear masks since the aerosol fabric spray has a strong odor.
- Always make sure the rug is clean from dirt and dust.
- Do a patch test on the rug since some rugs may change colors when it is coated with spray.
2. Waterproof rug using a Fabric spray
- Coat the top portion of the rug using the Scotchgard fabric protector spray.
- Don’t overdo the coating, and ensure you place the spray 6 inches away from the rug while waterproofing.
- Let the rug get dry for 15-20 minutes.
- Then give a second coating of fabric protector spray on the rug.
3. Dry
- Let the rug gets dry for 1-2 hours.
- Once it is completely dry, the spray turns out odorless, and you can do a waterproof test on your fancy rug.
Precautions
- Always prefer outdoor space to perform this method, since the aerosol spray has a strong odor.
- Although the fabric spray is nontoxic, keep the spray out of children’s reach.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 10-15 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 2 hours.
The total processing time is around 2 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost of required items:
- Scotchgard fabric protector spray – $10
The overall cost for this method will be around $10.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield, 13.5 Ounces, Repels Water, Ideal for Couches, Pillows, Furniture, Shoes and More, Long Lasting Protection | Check Price On Amazon |
2. Waterproof a Rug using Rust-oleum water-repelling method
Rust-oleum protects your rug from abrasion, dulling and fading. The anti-rust properties of the spray can protect your rug from rust and corrosion.
The spray has less drying time and results in an attractive finish of the product. And the spray can be used on any type of surface.
Rug sprayed with Rust-oleum can have a longer life, and it is best for outdoor and indoor usage. The water-repelling nature of the spray creates a barrier to moisture absorption and prevents mildew on the surface.
There are various color options available in the spray, and you can choose according to your rug color.
Required materials
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Prepare
- Place sheets on the floor to prepare the workspace.
- Wear masks since the Rust-oleum water-repelling spray has a strong odor.
- Always make sure the rug is clean from dirt and dust.
2. Waterproof rug using a Fabric spray
- Coat the top portion of the rug using the Rust-oleum water-repelling spray.
- Give a thin coating of spray on the rug.
- Let the rug get dry for 15-20 minutes.
- Then give a second coating of water-repelling spray on the rug.
3. Dry
- Let the rug gets dry for 1-2 hours.
- Once it is completely dry, the spray turns out odorless, and your rug will get ready for your patio.
Precautions
- Always prefer outdoor space to perform this method, since the Rust-oleum spray has a strong odor.
- Take proper precautions by wearing masks while performing the waterproofing method.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 10-15 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 2 hours.
The total processing time is around 2 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost of required items:
- Rust-oleum water repellant spray – $17
The overall cost for this method will be around $17.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Rust-Oleum Online Fabric Store NeverWet Boot & Shoe Water Repellent | Check Price On Amazon |
3. How to Waterproof a Rug using Otter Wax?
If you are looking for a quick and easy method to waterproof your rug, the otter wax method is for you.
Otter wax is made of high-quality beeswax completely based on plant-based wax and oils. So if you prefer a paraffin-free and silicone-free ingredient, otter wax is the ideal one for waterproofing your rug.
The otter wax comes in the bar, and you can choose the size according to the surface area of the waterproofing product. This wax can be used to waterproof any untreated fabrics and clothing ranging from jackets, hats, bags and tents.
Otter wax can penetrate the rug fabric by rubbing. And it seals the rug by forming a protective layer. Also, this wax is made up of all-natural ingredients; it blends easily with natural fibers.
Required materials
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Prepare the workspace
- Place the rug on the floor or the bench lined with sheets. You can get the otter wax which comes in a bar.
2. Rub otter wax on the rug
- Rub the otter wax on the top side of the rug thoroughly without leaving an inch.
- Blow hot air on your rug using a hairdryer so that the wax gets to blend with your rug.
- You can also apply the otter wax on the bottom side of the rug to make it extra waterproof.
3. Dry
- Once you are done with the rubbing, set the rug to dry for a couple of days.
- The ideal waterproofed rug gets ready for use after drying.
Precautions
- Follow this method in open space to avoid the waxy smell indoors. Also, you can set the rug to dry in your garage to get rid of strong odor.
Time
The preparation and application process can take up to 1 hour, and it also depends on the size of the rug. And the drying process will take 24-72 hours before use.
Total processing time: 3 days
Cost
Approximate cost of required items:
- Otter wax – $20
- Blow dryer – $40
The overall cost for this method will be around $60.
4. Sealing rug using Waterproofed Fabric
The above methods can help you to seal or waterproof the top layer of the rug. So if you are likely to seal the bottom area of the rug, you can achieve it using this method.
Benefits of using waterproof clothing:
- Waterproofed fabric is not only resistant to water but also from dirt, oils as well. So it can protect your rug from moisture and it can also keep your rug clean.
- You need not worry about spilling on the floor since the waterproofed fabric won’t absorb the liquid.
- This method is cost and time effective and it can protect the rug from damp floors.
- By using waterproofed clothing, you can enjoy easy maintenance since the dirt and water won’t get attached to the surface and get tossed away from the material.
- Waterproof clothing attached can extend the rug life and make the rug look as new as ever.
Required Items
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Prepare the waterproofed fabric
- Cut the waterproofed clothing according to the size of the rug using scissors.
2. Seal the rug
- Stick the fabric on the bottom side of the rug using carpet tapes.
3. Final step
- You can use grip pads under the rug to make it anti-slippery.
- Now, the perfectly waterproofed rug is ready for your patio use.
Precautions
- You need to seal the entire rug using any waterproofing spray to get complete protection.
Time
The entire process takes a minimum time of 20-30 minutes.
The total processing time is around 30 minutes.
Cost
Approximate cost of required items:
- Carpet Tape- $9
- Waterproofed Fabric – $10
- Anti-slip adhesive pad – $20
The overall cost for this method will be around $40.
Final Words:
Indeed rug adds beauty to your outdoor space, so maintaining the rug is crucial to enhance its look.
Damp conditions can cause bacterial growth on the rug and even cause staining on the floor. This not only makes the rug unappealing but also leads to unhygienic space.
Apart from waterproofing, you should take measures, such as disinfecting the rug, dusting the rugs regularly. Also, ensure you store the rugs in the closed storage area during the offseason. Always clean off the spills immediately.
