A clean area rug makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.
Vacuum the top surface thoroughly, then flip the rug and vacuum the back. This dislodges dirt trapped deep in the fibers.
Take the rug outside and shake it vigorously or hang it over a railing and beat it with a broom handle to remove embedded dust.
Spray Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner on stains, let sit for 5 minutes, and blot with a white cloth.
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum. For a deeper clean, scrub with soapy water and rinse with a garden hose.
Lay the rug flat outdoors in a shaded area. Flip it halfway through drying. Ensure it's completely dry before bringing inside.