Washable Rugs: Are They Worth It?

Ten years ago, the idea of putting a rug in the washing machine would have raised eyebrows. Today, washable rugs are one of the most-asked-about categories we sell, and for good reason. They solve a very real problem: the fear of the first spill. But are they right for every room, and every household? Here is our honest assessment.

What a washable rug actually is

Most washable rugs are made from synthetic fibres, usually polyester, with the design printed or woven into a relatively thin, flexible pile. They are built on a lightweight, often non-slip backing so that the whole rug can bend and tumble in a drum without being damaged. That construction is the secret to their practicality, and also the source of their limitations.

Where they shine

Kitchens and dining rooms. Food, wine and coffee are the enemies of a traditional rug. A washable rug turns a disaster into a laundry job. We cover this in more depth in our guide to kitchen rugs that actually work.

Homes with pets and young children. Muddy paws, accidents and art projects are part of family life. Being able to wash a rug properly, rather than simply spot-clean it, is a genuine relief. Our guide to rugs for pets and children explores this further.

Rented homes and holiday lets. Where a rug will see a lot of different feet, easy laundering keeps it fresh between occupants.

Where they fall short

A washable rug will never have the depth, weight or warmth of a hand-woven wool rug. The pile is lower, the hand feel is lighter and, over many years, a printed design will not age with the same grace as natural fibre. They are also practical rather than heirloom pieces: think of them as rugs for living hard, not for passing down.

Size is the other consideration. Smaller rugs fit comfortably in a domestic machine, but larger sizes can exceed the capacity of a home drum. For those, a launderette's large-capacity machine or a professional cleaner is the sensible route.

How to wash one properly

• Always follow the care label first; it overrides any general advice.
• Shake or vacuum the rug before washing to remove grit.
• Use a cool, gentle cycle and a mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
• Air dry flat or over a clothes airer. High heat can damage the backing, so tumble drying is best avoided unless the label says otherwise.
• Make sure the rug is completely dry before putting it back down.

Do washable rugs look cheap?

Not any more. The best modern washable ranges carry sophisticated designs and colourways that sit comfortably in a considered interior. Our Lux Washable collection, for instance, uses tonal, softly distressed patterns that read as vintage-inspired rather than utilitarian. The key is choosing a design with some movement in it: busier, layered patterns hide everyday wear far better than flat, pale colours.

Our verdict

A washable rug is not a replacement for a fine wool rug in a drawing room or bedroom. But in the rooms where life happens at its messiest, it is often the wisest choice you can make. Many of our customers now own both: a beautiful wool rug where they relax, and a washable rug where they cook, eat and play.

A decorator's note

Treat a washable rug like any other rug when it comes to sizing and placement. A generous washable rug under a kitchen table will always look better than a small mat, and a quality underlay will stop it creeping on hard floors.