How to Wash a Rug in the Washing Machine: A Complete Guide
Mar 31st 2023
We all know how important rugs are to your home, right? Rugs can easily add a touch of elegance and comfort to any space they’re placed in. Though we all also know how easy it is for them to get dirty. Rugs accumulate dirt and dust over time, and depending on the material, the pattern, and the pile height, cleaning them can be a hassle. This is where washable rugs come in! While cleaning your washable rug regularly is essential to maintain its beauty and durability, it’s easier than ever. While other rugs require professional cleaning services or some heavy-duty elbow grease, there are many rugs that can be cleaned in only a few steps, by tossing them into the washing machine!
Keep reading for a step-by-step guide for washable rugs, and how to go about washing them at home. It really is as easy as it seems, you’ll see!
Why Wash Rugs in a Washing Machine?
Washing your rug in a washing machine is a cost-effective and convenient way to clean it. It saves you the hassle of hand washing or taking your rug to a professional cleaner. You’ll be able to get rid of any dirt and debris without ever leaving your home, in as little as a few hours!
Types of Rugs Suitable for Washing Machines
Not all rugs can be washed in a washing machine, so you have to make sure you only try to machine-wash rugs that can be successfully washed in that way. Generally, small and lightweight rugs, including cotton, synthetic and wool, are suitable for washing machines. Large and heavy rugs or delicate antique rugs are not suitable for washing machines. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to only put rugs into a washing machine that are specifically labeled as machine washable, to avoid causing any damage or fading to the rug by accident. Smaller accent rugs and mats might be the exception to this rule, but wash at your own risk! In this post, we’ll only be talking about those rugs that are specifically labeled and tested as being machine washable.
Preparing Your Rug for Washing
Before washing your rug in the washing machine:
- Ensure it is free from loose dirt and dust.
- Shake it outdoors or use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris.
- If your rug has stains, pre-treat them before washing them using a stain remover or a mixture of water and vinegar, or by using a gentle detergent.
- Test your detergent or mixture on a small and inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the rug or cause any of the color to fade. If it doesn’t, you’re good to move on to the next step! If it does, you can repeat the process again with a different detergent, or you can try a different method for washing your rug.
Selecting the Right Detergent
Using the right detergent is crucial when washing a rug in a washing machine. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as they have the capability to possibly damage the rug's fibers. Instead, use a mild detergent suitable for the rug's material. Read the detergent label to ensure it is safe for use in a washing machine before getting started, and again, you can always play it safe and test a small patch of the rug to ensure you won’t run into any difficulties when washing.
Setting the Washing Machine
Select the delicate or gentle cycle when washing your rug in a machine, even if the rug’s label doesn’t specifically say to do this. This cycle is designed to handle delicate fabrics and can help prevent damage to your rug. While rugs aren’t typically what you’d think of as “delicate,” they do have intricate threading that could become damaged, unravel, or lose its shape if washed too vigorously. Also, be sure to use cold water to prevent any color bleeding or shrinkage. Avoid overcrowding the washing machine by washing one rug at a time.
Drying Your Rug
After washing your rug, it is important to take proper precautions to avoid damaging its fibers during drying. It is strongly advised to avoid using a dryer as the heat can harm the rug's delicate fibers – it might be faster, but it won’t be worth it in the long run. Instead, opt for a gentler approach by air drying your rug outdoors or on a clean, flat surface indoors if weather doesn’t permit.
Tips for Maintaining Your Rug
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your rug looking clean and new. Vacuum your rug regularly in between washings to remove loose dirt and dust. Avoid placing overly heavy furniture on your rug, as it can cause dents and damage to the fibers. Additionally, rotate your rug periodically to prevent uneven wear and fading from either furniture or extensive foot traffic.
FAQs
Q: Can I put a rug in the washing machine?
A: You can wash certain rugs with a washing machine, including cotton, synthetic and wool. However, large and heavy rugs may not be suitable for machine washing. Be sure to check your rug’s label before attempting to wash, and only wash in your washing machine if the label specifies that it’s safe.
Q: How do I prepare my rug for washing?
A: Before washing your rug:
- Remove loose dirt and debris by shaking it outdoors or vacuuming it.
- Pre-treat any stains using a stain remover or a mixture of water and vinegar.
- Test the stain remover or mixture on a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the rug.
Q: What detergent should I use to wash my rug in a washing machine?
A: Use a mild detergent that is suitable for the rug's material. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as they can damage the rug's fibers. Read the detergent label to ensure it is safe for use in a washing machine, and safe for use on rugs.
Q: Can I wash large or heavy rugs in a washing machine?
A: No, large and heavy rugs are not suitable for washing machines. They require professional cleaning or hand washing – again, this takes more work, but it will safe you a headache in the future… and keep you from having to buy a new rug altogether – and possibly a new washing machine, too!
Q: Can I dry my rug in a dryer?
A: Drying your rug in a dryer is not recommended, as the heat can damage the rug's fibers. Instead, hang your rug outdoors or lay it flat on a clean surface to air dry. Same as above… don’t risk causing damage to both your rug and to your dryer, and just let your rug air dry.
Q: Can you wash a runner rug in the washer?
A: It may be possible to wash a runner rug in a washing machine. But it is essential to check the care label, size, construction, and material of the rug before doing so. When in doubt, opt for hand washing or professional cleaning to avoid damaging the rug.
Shop Washable Rugs at Decorsify Today!
At Decorsify.com, we not only offer tips on how to wash a rug in the washing machine, but also provide an extensive range of affordable rugs that can transform your living space. We aim to make luxury accessible to everyone by providing high-quality rugs at lower prices. Decorsify’s online store offers spill-proof and allergen-friendly rugs for families with kids and pets. These rugs are designed to repel spills and stains, making them easy to clean and maintain. They are also hypoallergenic, which means they are free from materials that can cause allergies or asthma.
Washing your rug in a washing machine is a convenient and cost-effective way to keep it clean and well-maintained. However, it is important to ensure that your rug is suitable for machine washing and to follow the proper steps to avoid damage. Regular maintenance, such as vacuuming and rotating your rug, can help prolong its lifespan and maintain its beauty. If you’re in the market for a rug that you’re sure can be machine-washed, check out our listings of washable rugs on our website. Happy shopping!
If you liked these tips and are interested in learning other tricks to keep your home in tip-top shape, check out our other posts!
A How-To Guide for Machine-Washing Your Washable Rug