A Rug Weavers washable rug being loaded into a washing machine

Washable rug care

From first spill to fresh floor.

Everyday care starts with regular vacuuming and calm spot treatment. When a full wash is needed, temperature, drum space and drying method matter most.

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The complete method

How to wash your rug.

Check the sewn label first. Smaller rugs suit many domestic machines; room-size rugs generally need commercial capacity.

  1. 01

    Vacuum first

    Lift loose grit with low suction and no aggressive beater bar.

  2. 02

    Blot the spill

    Use cool water and a clean cloth. Blot gently—never scrub the fibres.

  3. 03

    Wash at 30°C

    Load loosely, wash alone on a gentle cycle, and use mild liquid detergent.

  4. 04

    Keep it gentle

    No bleach or fabric softener; both can alter colour and reduce grip.

  5. 05

    Air dry flat

    Reshape while damp and let it dry fully before returning it to the floor.

  6. 06

    Match the dry weight

    Fold loosely and use a machine whose stated capacity is at least the rug's dry weight.

Always check the sewn care label and your machine instructions. Wash the rug alone and never exceed the machine's stated dry-load capacity.

The three things to avoid

Heat: use a gentle 30°C cycle. Fabric softener: it can leave residue and reduce grip. An overfilled drum: the rug needs room to move and rinse properly.

Vacuuming removes the grit that wears fibres down; washing is for the marks vacuuming cannot lift. If in doubt, use a commercial launderette and show them the care label.

Read more care advice