How to Clean a Washable Rug (Without Ruining It)

Washable rugs are great until someone throws one in the dryer on high heat and wonders why it came out the wrong size. Here is the actual process.

Most machine washable rugs are designed for a front-loading washer. Top-loading machines with a center agitator can twist and stretch the fibers, so if that is the only machine you have, hand washing or spot cleaning is the safer route.

Step by Step

1. Shake the rug outside or vacuum both sides first to remove loose dirt. Skipping this step is the most common reason a rug comes out of the wash still looking dingy.
2. Roll the rug and place it in the washer. Most sizes up to 5' x 7' fit in a standard front-loader. Larger rugs may need a commercial-size machine or a bathtub hand wash instead.
3. Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Hot water can set stains and break down the latex backing some washable rugs have.
4. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener. Both can damage the fibers or strip the rug's stain-resistant coating over time.
5. Air dry. Lay the rug flat outside or over a drying rack. Avoid the dryer unless the product page specifically says it is dryer safe, and even then, use low heat only.

What Ruins a Washable Rug Fastest

Heat is the main enemy. High heat from a dryer or hot water wash can shrink the backing faster than the fibers, which leaves you with a warped, uneven rug. The second most common issue is overloading the washer, which does not let the rug actually get clean and puts unnecessary strain on the machine.

Common Mistakes

People assume washable means machine washable in any machine, any setting. Always check the specific care instructions on the product page before the first wash, since backing material and pile height can change what is safe.