How to wash a rug in a washing machine: a guide

BY LOUISE, RUG EXPERT AT RUGVISTA | PUBLISHED: 24/05/2024
4 MIN READ

Knowing how to wash a rug in a washing machine is essential for homes with kids, pets, and, well, people. Accidents happen, and they may happen on your rug. Luckily, restoring your machine washable rug to its former glory doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following our step-by-step guide on how to machine wash your rug, the mess will be sorted in no time.

Can rugs be washed in a washing machine?

Yes, rugs that are specifically labelled as machine washable can be safely cleaned in a washing machine. Double-check the label of your rug to check the wash and care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

A stylish machine washable rug might just be the life hack we’ve been waiting for. They bring colourful designs and beautiful patterns to your floors and, if an accident happens, you just toss the rug into the washing machine! But before rushing the procedure, there are a few steps to ensure you machine wash your rug in the best possible way. The life of your rug can be prolonged through regular maintenance, treating spots and stains as they occur, and following the care instructions. Not only does that mean you get to enjoy it for longer, but you’re doing your bit to shrink the total textile-related environmental impact. Win-win for your pocket and the planet.

How to wash a rug in a washing machine in six easy steps

Before washing a rug in a washing machine, always start by checking the label to find the wash and care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This is where you can, for instance, find out if there’s a recommended washing temperature for your rug. Also, check that your rug can physically fit inside your washing machine to prevent an overload that might damage both your rug and your machine. Follow our step-by-step guide below on how to machine wash your rug.

1. Shake it off

Start by removing any dirt from your rug. Give it a gentle shake outside, or hoover it thoroughly to prevent any loose debris from building up in the washing machine, as this can cause unnecessary wear and tear to your rug.

2. Load your machine

Place your rug in the machine and ensure it spins evenly with enough room to circulate. You can use a front-loaded or a top-loaded machine or a washer-dryer combo. Make sure not to overload it; check the specifications for your machine, as load capacities differ between models.

3. Add the detergent

When washing a rug in a washing machine, go for a mild detergent. For a regular machine, up to a tablespoon of detergent is enough. Never use bleach or fabric softener, as this may damage the rug fibres. Also, ditching fabric softener means fewer nasty chemicals get washed down the drain, giving Mother Nature a well-deserved break. If you’re concerned about the detergent, mix a small amount with water and dab on an inconspicuous spot of the rug to ensure it doesn’t affect its colour.

4. Select a delicate cycle

Select a gentle washing cycle that uses cold water. Hot water might cause the rug fibres to shrink, which can lead to permanent damage. Speaking of heat, make sure to skip any drying cycles if you have a combined washer and dryer.

5. Hang to dry

Unload the rug when washing is done. Now, it’s time to let it hang to dry. Be careful; a wet rug can be heavy, so make sure to hang it somewhere stable. Cover your floor with towels under the hanging rug to avoid water damage.

6. Place your rug

When your rug is completely dry, it’s time to place it in the room again. Move any furniture out of the way, make sure the rug lays flat where you want it, and put back the furniture.

What rugs are machine washable?

Your safest bet when looking for a washable rug is to choose a synthetic rug. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and exposure to water won’t damage the rug fibres. There are also thin cotton rugs that are machine washable if you’re looking for a non-synthetic option. Keep in mind that there’s a difference between a and a machine washable rug. Washable rugs can handle water but may not be suitable for the washing machine. Instead, a garden hose or a damp cloth might do the trick.

And what rugs are not machine washable?

In general, products made from natural fibres such as silk rugs, wool rugs, and jute rugs are not machine washable, and in some cases not washable at all. Does that mean that all hope’s gone if an accident happens? Not at all; there’s still a lot you can do to care for your rug to make sure you get to enjoy its beauty for a long time, even if it’s not machine washable.