Can You Really Wash an Area Rug in the Washing Machine?
The short answer is yes β but only if your rug is designed for it. Not every rug can survive a spin cycle. Heavy wool rugs, oversized rugs, and rugs with delicate hand-knotted construction should never go in a home washer. But machine washable area rugs β like the ones in our RugKnots washable collection β are specifically engineered to be cleaned in a standard washing machine, emerging fresh, bright, and damage-free every single time.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we walk you through exactly how to wash an area rug safely at home, step by step.
"At RugKnots, we've been importing and selling hand-knotted rugs since 1987. The right rug doesn't just tie a room togetherβit sets the foundation for how you live in that space."
Before You Start: Check These 3 Things
Before tossing your rug in the washer, confirm three things. First, check the care label β look for the machine-wash symbol. Second, check the size β most front-load washers can handle rugs up to 5x8 ft. For larger rugs, use a commercial washer at a laundromat. Third, check the backing β rugs with rubber or latex backing should be washed on a gentle cycle only to prevent cracking.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash an Area Rug in a Washing Machine
Step 1 β Shake and vacuum first. Take the rug outside and give it a good shake to remove loose dirt, crumbs, and pet hair. Vacuum both sides to pull out embedded debris before washing.
Step 2 β Pre-treat stains. For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of mild stain remover or dish soap directly to the spot and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before washing.
Step 3 β Load the rug loosely. Fold or roll the rug and place it in the drum. Do not pack the drum too tightly β the rug needs room to move freely for a thorough clean.
Step 4 β Select the right settings. Use cold or warm water on a gentle or delicate cycle. Avoid hot water, which can shrink fibers and fade colors. Use a small amount of mild, color-safe liquid detergent β never powder detergent, which can leave residue.
Step 5 β Extra rinse cycle. Run an extra rinse cycle to make sure all detergent is fully flushed out. Detergent residue left in rug fibers can make them stiff and dull over time.
Step 6 β Drying. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry flat on a clean surface. Never hang a wet rug by one end β this can distort its shape. Make sure the rug is completely dry before placing it back on the floor to prevent mildew.
How Often Should You Wash Your Area Rug?
For most households, washing your area rug every 3 to 6 months is sufficient. In homes with pets, young children, or heavy foot traffic, washing every 4 to 8 weeks is reasonable. In between washes, vacuum regularly and spot-clean spills immediately.
Why RugKnots Washable Rugs Make This Easy
Our washable rugs are built with machine washing in mind from the start. Color-fast dyes, flexible synthetic fibers, and durable backing means they come out of the wash looking as good as new β wash after wash. Browse our full collection of machine washable area rugs and make laundry day the easiest part of your week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these rugs durable?
Yes, they are designed for durability and long-lasting wear, especially in high-traffic areas.
How do I clean this type of rug?
Regular vacuuming without a beater bar is recommended. For specific spills, spot clean immediately with mild soap and water.
Do I need a rug pad?
Yes, we always recommend a high-quality rug pad to prevent slipping, add cushioning, and extend the life of your rug.
Are they safe for pets and kids?
Absolutely. The materials are safe, and the construction is designed to withstand active households.
Can these rugs be used outdoors?
Unless specifically marked as an indoor/outdoor rug, we recommend keeping them indoors to prevent weather damage.
Related Buying Guides
About RugKnots
RugKnots is a family-owned rug company based in Hagerstown, Maryland. Founded in 2010, we've spent over 14 years helping homeowners and designers find the right rug β from hand-knotted Persian heirlooms to durable machine-made everyday pieces. We hand-inspect every order before it ships, offer free U.S. shipping, and back every purchase with our 30-day return guarantee.
This article was written by our editorial team and reviewed for accuracy. Our writers work directly with our buyers and customer-experience team, who handle thousands of rug questions every year. If you have a question this article didn't answer, reach out β a real human will get back to you within one business day.
){kind=link}