Why Every Room Needs a Washable Rug

Stain-resistant and lightweight, washable rugs are very low maintenance. They have many benefits:

• Kid- and pet-friendly, washable rugs make dealing with the inevitable accidents, dirt, stains and odors of everyday living much more convenient.
• Washable rugs keep their looks and don’t shed or fade when cleaned.
• Over a year’s time, an area rug can accumulate a lot of dirt and dust. Washable rugs can be cleaned often, making them an ideal choice for those with allergies.
• You don't have to sacrifice beauty for easy upkeep. Almost any style of area rug is available in a washable option, from traditional weaves to modern designs.

Most washable rugs are made of synthetic fibers. Nylon, polypropylene and other synthetic fibers can be woven in most every design and texture. Synthetic fibers stand up to high traffic, so they make for more durable area rugs. Washable rugs made of synthetic fibers tend to keep their shape. Polypropylene washable rugs are known to resist fading and retain their vibrant colors longer.

Some rugs made from natural materials such as cotton or chenille can also be washed. These types of rugs are usually thicker and softer. However, cotton rugs can shed when washed, while chenille rugs are more durable.

Rugs made to be machine washable will have a label that says it is safe to wash them in a machine. You can use most any type of washing machine to clean your washable rug. Here are a few general things to keep in mind when cleaning and drying machine washable rugs.

• Review your washer’s weight limit and see if the rug fits inside the washer. Like any load, the rug should move freely around while going through each cycle. It may be helpful to add some towels to balance the load. Depending on your washing machine's size and the rug's weight, you may need to use a commercial washing machine at a laundromat.
• While rubber-backed rugs are machine washable, avoid washing them too often or they'll tear.
• Wash the rug on the delicate or gentle cycle in plain cold water. Avoid bleaches, detergents and fabric softeners. Pre-treat any stains with mild dish soap. Place your rug in the machine reverse side up.
• You can dry a washable rug in a dryer on low, rather than high heat. Make sure your dryer is large enough to allow the rug to move. It may be best, however, to let the rug air dry. Washable rugs made from synthetic fibers can melt under heat. This is also true of washable rugs with a no-slip or rubber backing.

Tip: Make sure to check your specific rug’s label and follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning and drying.

Washable rugs are usually thinner than other types of area rugs. Some brands of washable rugs come with their own pad, while others do not. Adding a rug pad will provide more comfort and dampens sound. It also prevents the rug from sliding around. Choose a pad that is between 1/4-1/2-inch thick for best results, although an 1/8-inch thickness may be preferable.

There are several types of rug pads to choose from. There are pads made to go under rugs that are on wood, tile and other hard surfaces. If you’re using your washable rug over carpet, use a rug pad that's designed to keep it in place.

A washable rug can be a welcome addition to most any room in your home. They work especially well in areas where a lot of dirt is tracked in, like entryways or mudrooms. It also makes perfect sense to use a washable rug in rooms where spills or accidents are bound to happen, such as dining rooms and kitchens.

If the backyard or patio is off your den or family room, it’s an ideal space for a washable rug. You can also use a washable rug in bathrooms and other areas where cleanliness is important. Children’s bedrooms and places where pets hang out call for a washable rug. On the stylish side, a washable rug can make maintaining a clean white or neutral look in a room much easier.

Providing proper care of your washable rug will help it last. Washable rugs can be cleaned often. However, they will look better longer if you only machine wash them once or twice a year.

• In between cleanings, sprinkle plain baking soda over the rug and vacuum to get rid of odors. Blot tough stains with a mix of dish soap and cold water. Dry with a cotton cloth.
• After machine washing, make sure to allow your rug to dry thoroughly. A damp rug can lead to mold or mildew problems.
• Sometimes thin or lightweight washable rugs can curl at the edges after washing. Use a steamer to press them flat.