What to Look for in a Machine-Washable Rug
A machine-washable rug is the best blend of style and functionality. With a rug you can easily pop into a washing machine, you don’t need to worry about constant foot traffic, spillages, or the hazards that come from mixing soft furnishings and children.
This guide gives you all the information you need to choose the right machine-washable rug for your home. Browse our full range of machine-washable rugs, all of which come with free UK delivery.
What Are the Best Materials for Machine-Washable Rugs?
There are a few different materials available for rugs that are machine-washable. Generally, you’ll want to steer away from natural materials like wool or sisal and more towards synthetic.
Nylon
Nylon is one of the most budget-friendly washable materials for a rug. Though it’s not as strong and long-lasting as polypropylene, it’s still a durable material. If you want a washable rug for an area that doesn’t get much foot traffic, nylon is a great choice.
How to Wash a Nylon Rug
To wash a nylon rug, use cold water and a gentle cycle. Don’t put it in the dryer as this risks damaging it; air-dry instead.
Cotton
Though cotton is a natural fibre, it is actually machine-washable. This makes it a very popular choice for rugs, being both practical and soft. If your cotton rug is quite worn out, you can easily replace it as the material is cheap. But if you just want to wash it, you can.
How to Wash a Cotton Rug
Machine washable cotton rugs need a low temperature as higher temperatures will cause the fibres to shrink. For this reason, you should also air-dry your cotton rug and not put it in the dryer.
Polypropylene
If you’re looking for an extremely practical rug that’s still soft and cosy, polypropylene is your best bet. This rug material is great for areas that will get a lot of footfall. As polypropylene is water and stain resistant, it’s also a fantastic choice if you’re looking for machine-washable kitchen rugs or machine-washable bathroom rugs.
How to Wash a Polypropylene Rug
As a more durable fibre, you can even wash a polypropylene rug outside with a garden hose and dish detergent. If you choose to put it in the washing machine, use cold water. Don’t expose your polypropylene rug to high temperatures as it can melt. Air dry out of direct sunlight to avoid colours fading.
Polyester
Polyester is another material that’s great for a lower budget. As with other synthetic materials, it is machine-washable.
How to Wash a Polyester Rug
You should wash polyester rugs on their own, as you risk colours running if put with another load. Use a gentle detergent and a slow cycle with water no higher than 30°C for best results.
What Rug Materials Are NOT Machine-Washable?
Natural fibres generally do not fare well in washing machines. In particular, you should not machine wash the following:
- Wool
- Viscose
- Silk
When in doubt, be sure to check the label on your rug which should have a symbol if it’s washable. Be sure to look at our tips for cleaning a wool rug at home if yours is in need of some care.
Our Top Picks for Machine-Washable Rugs
We are one of the UK’s top online retailers of rugs with a stock of 1,000s of rugs in a diverse range of styles, sizes, and designs. Most of the options below come in multiple measurements, so if you’re looking for large machine-washable rugs or machine-washable runner rugs, just look at the individual product pages.
And while you browse, remember all rugs come with free UK delivery as a standard.
Machine Washable Area Rugs
My Rug
The My Rug collection from Origins offers 14 colour options made with recycled polypropylene. As well as being stain-resistant and durable, the 10mm pile means this range is a wonderful option if you’re looking for machine-washable shag rugs.
Buddy Rugs
Similarly, the Buddy Rugs collection also by Origins has a super-soft pile, making it ideal as a machine-washable bedroom rug. Coming in a range of sizes, the Buddy Rug range also has good options for machine-washable round rugs.
Washable Gel-Back Rug
For more patterns and colours, browse the Washable Gel-Back Rug range by Serdim Rugs. The backing makes these a great machine-washable non-slip rug option. With modern geometric patterns and tons of shades to choose from, these rugs are fun and functional.
Machine-Washable Children’s Rugs
Placement Rugs
A machine-washable nursery rug is essential for ensuring a long-lasting piece that isn’t damaged by spillages and rough-and-tumble! We’ve got a brilliant assortment of bright colours, cool designs, and quirky characters, like the Placement Rugs range from Kit For Kids.
Traditional Machine-Washable Rugs
Tabriz
If you’re looking for a machine washable Moroccan rug or machine-washable Persian rug, the Tabriz range from Think Rugs should satisfy with their ornate designs. The high-quality polyester material means they’re easy to clean and very durable, combining beauty and practicality in one.
Machine-Washable Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs will transform your patio or outside area and make the space completely your own. We stock hundreds of garden rugs that you can easily keep clean for a put-together patio space.
Find the Perfect Rug With Free UK Delivery
Our rugs are all delivered directly to your door free of charge, with many even available for next-day delivery. Whatever style or size of rug you’re looking for, you’ll find it on Rugs Direct. Browse by room, colour, and more to find the perfect one for your home.
And if you’re interested in more information and advice, like how to wash a white rug, check out our blog.