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The Spruce / Zackary Angeline
Washable rugs take your average decorative rug to new heights, making it super easy to keep your space clean and stylish at the same time. They can add color, warmth, and visual interest to rooms, small and large, while also protecting your flooring. Best of all, when life–and common messes–happen, they’re a breeze to get clean. Surprisingly, they're also often more affordable than their non-washable counterparts.
The makeup of a washable rug does differ from your typical professional- or spot-clean-only alternatives. "Most washable rugs are made with synthetic materials, although you can find higher-priced rugs made from cotton and wool," says laundry and dry-cleaning expert Rechelle Balanzat of Juliette Cleaners. As a result, they can feel slightly different and offer different levels of durability. As washable rugs become increasingly popular, the selection of options is growing to include a variety of different materials and types.
We researched and tested standout washable rug options, narrowing them down to the most versatile, stylish, low-maintenance designs. Our favorites were those rugs that offered comfort underfoot, unique styling for a variety of different interior design aesthetics, and easy care across the board, in addition to simple washing instructions.
Best Overall
Ruggable Kamran Coral Rug
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Ruggable
Resistant to stains and moisture damage
Timeless Persian-inspired design
Nine colors available
Wide selection of rug sizes and shapes
Hard to vacuum
Ruggable is a reliable maker of attractive, easy-to-clean area rugs, and the Kamran Coral Rug is no exception. It's made of polyester and features a polyurethane coating to ensure resistance to staining and moisture damage. The rug itself is pretty thin—that's part of what makes it machine-washable—but it comes with your choice of a standard rug pad or a cushioned medium-pile pad for some extra plushness underfoot.
The Kamran Coral Rug flaunts a timeless Persian-inspired design reminiscent of traditional Heriz rugs. It's slightly faded for a vintage look and comes in your choice of nine colorways. There are also seven rectangular sizes available, ranging from 2 x 3 to 9 x 12 feet, in addition to runners and round rugs in various sizes to choose from. We love the wide selection of options, a detail that allows this rug to work in any home and any size space.
One thing to note, however, is this rug is tricky to vacuum. Since it's on the thinner side, even regular suction power sucks the fabric up pretty easily, so it can get stuck. Still, you can shake it out occasionally and, of course, wash it right in your washing machine as needed. While this isn't the most affordable washable rug we found, the price is very reasonable for a high-quality, mid-size rug.
Price at time of publish: $219 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 11 sizes available | Material: Polyester, polyurethane
Best Budget
ReaLife Distressed Boho Machine Washable Rug
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Walmart
Charming time-worn aesthetic
15 colors available
Made with recycled fibers
Grippy rubberized backing
Very thin
No extra-large sizes
On a budget? Check out the ReaLife Distressed Boho Rug. It comes in 15 colors, each with a bohemian-inspired, time-worn aesthetic that'll add a touch of character to your space without overwhelming it. While there aren't any extra-large options, there are six sizes available, ranging from long runners to rugs big enough for a mid-sized living room, den, or bedroom.
We love that this affordable and washable area rug is made of recycled polyester, which makes it an eco-minded pick. It’s also able to prevent movement and shifting, thanks to a non-slip rubberized backing. It's pretty thin, though, so you might consider getting a rug pad for a bit more plushness underfoot. When it needs freshening up, you can toss it in your washing machine and even dry it in your dryer using low or no heat. All things considered, around $100 is a steal.
Price at time of publish: $113 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 6 sizes available | Material: Recycled polyester, rubber
Best Large
Hauteloom Cabacungan Washable Area Rug
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Amazon
Good for living rooms and great rooms
Traditional look with intricate patterns
Easy to machine-wash or spot-clean
Requires oversized washer
Slightly unusual rug sizing
If you need a bigger washable rug for a bigger space, go with the Hauteloom Cabacungan Area Rug. It comes in four sizes, the largest being 9.25 x 12 feet, so it should work for most living rooms, family rooms, great rooms, and large bedrooms. The sizing is slightly larger than typical rug sizing, too; for example, you can opt for a 5-foot-3-inch x 7-foot rug rather than a standard 5 x 7 foot. Featuring traditional designs with intricate patterns, this rug comes in six colorways ranging from navy to gray to beige. You’ll easily be able to cover more square footage without having to sacrifice color or style in a rug.
More to the point, we love that Hauteloom’s rugs are super easy to clean. You can wash yours in a standard washing machine, but bear in mind the larger sizes will require an oversized drum—7 to 9 cubic feet should suffice. You can tumble-dry it as well, as long as it fits in your dryer. If not, you can hang it up to air-dry. This synthetic rug can also be spot-cleaned as needed.
Price at time of publish: $319 for 5 foot 3 inch x 7 foot
Dimensions: 9.25 x 12 feet, 8 x 10 feet, 6.5 x 9 feet, 5.25 x 7 feet | Material: Polyester
Best Small
Moynesa Ultra-Thin Washable Vintage Area Rug
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Amazon
Reinforced edges
Non-slip backing
Multiple size and shape options
Durable for high-traffic areas
Not plush
Not dryer-friendly
If you need something for a doorway, mudroom, reading nook, bathroom, or another small area, we recommend the Moynesa Ultra-Thin Area Rug. Attractive and built for longevity, this rug comes in 13 sizes, the smallest including door mats and various runners, most of which are available for under $50. And the slightly faded medallion motifs are available in six colors ranging from bold hues to neutrals.
Made of 100 percent polyester and featuring a tight, flat weave, this rug is designed to hold up in high-traffic areas and resist shedding with heavy everyday use. We love the durability-enhancing details in its construction, like reinforced overlock edges and the non-shedding recycled fibers that stay strong. As the name suggests, however, it's very thin. While this is part of what makes it machine-washable, you might consider getting a thick rug pad to place underneath for a plusher feel. Also, this rug isn't dryer-friendly, but you can air-dry it after washing it.
Price at time of publish: $75 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 13 sizes available | Material: Polyester
Best for Living Rooms
NuLoom Brielle Machine Washable Vintage Medallion Area Rug
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Amazon
Wide variety of sizes and shapes
Grippy non-slip backing
Spill- and stain-resistant
Not dryer-friendly
For living rooms, we suggest the NuLoom Brielle Rug. It comes in a whopping 15 sizes, the largest being 9 x 12 feet. In addition to rectangular designs, you can choose from squares, circles, and runners, which means there’s a choice for just about every living room and style preference. This washable area rug is woven from polyester and features a grippy backing to prevent it from sliding around. Plus, we love that the durable weave is specifically made to withstand heavy foot traffic in busy areas, and it's even resistant to spills and stains.
When it needs freshening up, you can machine-wash the Brielle Rug on a cold cycle. While tumble-drying isn't recommended, you can line-dry it or lay it flat, then use a low-heat iron to smooth out any creases or ripples. For a plusher feel underfoot, pair this rug with a thick cushioned rug pad.
Price at time of publish: $140 for a 5 x 8 foot
Dimensions: 15 sizes available | Material: Polyester
Best for Dining Rooms
Ruggable Gradasi Sumac Rug
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Ruggable
Tasteful, versatile design
Moisture- and stain-resistant
Fits in standard washer and dryer
May require carpet tape
Looking for something to place under your dining table? You won’t have to worry about spills, dropped food, or dirty feet if you opt for the Gradasi Sumac Rug from Ruggable. We like that this rug comes in three neutral colors, each featuring an ombre design against a versatile beige background that’s perfect for adding visual interest to your dining room without drawing too much attention. And there are seven sizes available, so you'll definitely find something that fits under your table.
Crafted from polyester with the brand's signature polyurethane protectant, this rug is conveniently resistant to stains and moisture damage—so you won't have to worry about spilling drinks (yes, even that hard-to-clean red wine!) Most sizes fit in a standard washing machine and can be tumble-dried on low heat or laid flat to air-dry. The only thing to note is the thin weave may bunch up when placed underneath furniture, but this can easily be corrected with carpet tape.
Price at time of publish: $219 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 11 sizes available | Material: Polyester, polyurethane
Best for Kids' Rooms
Lorena Canals Grey Stars Washable Rug
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Amazon
Handcrafted by artisans
Eco-friendly and non-toxic
Thick, soft, and plush
Only one size/color
Pricey for the size
If you're shopping for a child's bedroom, we recommend the Lorena Canals Stars Rug. Though it only comes in one color, the gray background with white stars is gender-neutral, endlessly versatile, and suitable for most kids' spaces. This rug is handcrafted from 97 percent recycled cotton and 3 percent poly fibers. We particularly like how much plusher and softer the fibers of this washable rug are, which helps provide a cozy place for kids to play and relax. And as an added perk, it's not only eco-friendly but also ISO-certified as non-toxic and safe for children.
The Stars Rug has a slightly higher pile than most washable rugs, offering more cushioning and warmth underfoot. You can machine-wash it on a delicate cycle with warm or cold water and tumble-dry it on low heat. Upwards of $200 is somewhat steep for a kids' rug, especially considering the small size. But in the end, we think it's warranted based on the rug’s overall quality and easy-care nature.
Price at time of publish: $215 for a 5 foot 3 inch x 4 foot
Dimensions: 5.25 x 4 feet feet | Material: Cotton, poly fibers
Best for Bathrooms
Adiva Rugs Machine Washable Area Rug
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Amazon
Made of recycled materials
OEKO-TEX certified
Spill- and stain-resistant
Non-slip backing may rub off
For bathrooms, we suggest the Machine Washable Area Rug from Adiva Rugs. This highly durable and easy-to-clean pick comes in 12 sizes, including several small sizes and multiple runners, perfect for placing in front of a vanity or next to a tub. The eco-friendly design is made of a blend of recycled polyester and cotton, and it's OEKO-TEX certified to ensure it's free of upwards of 100 potentially harmful chemicals. Plus, this rug is woven to be durable enough to survive everything from wet feet to spills and stains (and even messy kids and pets prone to splashing!)
This rug has a non-slip backing to prevent it from sliding around, a detail that’s key for any bathroom pick. However, this backing may rub off over time, so you might consider getting a grippy rubber pad to place underneath. It's super easy to clean—just toss it in your washing machine, then tumble-dry it without heat. With its affordable price, we think this is a great deal for such a well-made rug.
Price at time of publish: $75 for a 4 x 6 foot
Dimensions: 12 sizes available | Material: Recycled polyester, cotton
Best Patterned
World Market Iman Black And Ivory Persian Style Washable Area Rug
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Striking yet versatile
Suitable for high-traffic areas
Low-maintenance
Relatively thin
Only one colorway
Our favorite patterned option comes from World Market. This black and white Persian-style area rug features medallions and geometric shapes, but despite the intricate detailing, the design is still undeniably versatile. Though it only comes in one colorway, the black and ivory offer a beautiful contrast that'll complement modern, traditional, boho, and eclectic decor schemes alike.
This low-maintenance rug is made of polyester. While it's very thin, you can count on the durable weave to hold up in high-traffic areas. It's machine-washable in a standard-size washer and can be tumble-dried or laid flat to air dry. You can also easily blot up spills and even vacuum it as needed on a low setting. For under $150, we think this patterned area rug is an excellent value.
Price at time of publish: $120 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 7.5 x 9.5 feet, 5 x 7 feet, 3 x 5 feet, 2.5 x 8 feet | Material: Polyester
Best Medium-Pile
Revival Shell Washable Rug
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Revival
Neutral colors and aesthetic
Thick and plush like wool
OEKO-TEX certified
Larger sizes aren't machine-washable
Not dryer-friendly
Revival’s Shell Washable Rug is thicker than most washable floor coverings, and we love the softness and thickness of this medium-pile option. It's roughly half an inch thick—substantially thicker than most picks on our list, which are usually closer to an eighth of an inch. This area rug is loomed from recycled polyester and boasts OEKO-TEX certification for chemical safety in its materials. Though it's a synthetic material, the plush weave is reminiscent of wool.
It comes in three neutral colors (olive, beige, and charcoal) and nine sizes. While it's billed as a machine-washable product, the brand notes that the largest sizes (9 x 12 feet and above) should only be spot-cleaned or dry-cleaned as needed. And none of the sizes are dryer-friendly—you'll want to line-dry your rug or lay it flat.
Price at time of publish: $249 for a 5-foot-3-inch x 7 foot-10 inch size
Dimensions: 9 sizes available | Material: Recycled polyester
Best High-Pile
Rugs USA Ivory Moonglade Washable Striped Area Rug
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Rugs USA
Ultra-thick and plush wool
Resists odor, bacteria, and mildew
Stands up to heavy foot traffic
Pricey
Requires extra-large washer
For something thicker and made with more “traditional” rug fibers, consider the Moonglade Rug from Rugs USA. The high-pile design is 1 inch thick, which is nearly eight times as thick as most washable options. It's supremely plush and soft underfoot with a warm, cozy feel. This rug is crafted from 100 percent wool, a renewable material with natural resistance to odor, bacteria, and mildew growth. And while most wool rugs aren’t able to be tossed in the washing machine, the Moonglade Rug is perfectly safe to wash right at home–making it a breeze to care for when life and dirt happen.
The durable design is made to withstand heavy foot traffic in busy areas, even in homes with kids and pets. One thing to note is that due to the thickness, this rug calls for an extra-large washing machine. Also, it's quite a bit pricier than most washable area rugs but not outlandish for a high-quality wool rug, in general. All things considered, we think the price is warranted.
Price at time of publish: $663 for a 5 x 8 foot size
Dimensions: 6 x 9 feet, 5 x 8 feet, 4 x 6 feet, 3 x 5 feet | Material: Wool
Best Neutral
Tumble Tabor Natural/Ash Washable Rug & Cushioned Rug Pad
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Tumble
Light colors with subtle pattern
Spill-proof and low-maintenance
Cushioned rug pad included
Not very thick
If you're partial to neutral or very lightly patterned designs, we suggest Tumble's Tabor Rug. It features a very subtle—almost unnoticeable—geometric pattern within an ivory and cool taupe colorway. We appreciate that it's not completely solid and definitely not boring, and it won't distract from the rest of your home decor. This exceptionally versatile piece is made of 100 percent polyester and features a spill-proof surface, which makes it a great choice for living rooms, dining rooms, and even kitchens. All sizes are conveniently machine-washable and dryer-friendly.
While this washable rug is pretty thin, it does come with a cushioned, non-slip rug pad, which adds a bit of plushness underfoot. Plus, we love how simple it is to keep even the light color of this rug clean; thanks to its waterproof and hypoallergenic nature, it won’t leave you frustrated with pet hair, spills, stains, or dirt.
Price at time of publish: $179 for a 5 x 7 foot
Dimensions: 8 x 10 feet, 6 x 9 feet, 5 x 7 feet, 3 x 5 feet, 2.5 x 7 feet | Material: Polyester
Best Wool
Lorena Canals Almond Valley Woolable Rug
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Amazon
Yarn-dyed wool fibers
Resists bacteria, mold, and odors
Rug pad included
May shed at first
Only one size/color
Interested in a wool area rug? We love this one from Lorena Canals. The Almond Valley Rug is carefully handwoven from 100 percent yarn-dyed wool. Since sheep hydes regrow quickly, it's considered a renewable material. Not only that, but wool is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and odors, plus it helps insulate your home. And while you might not think of wool as a hypoallergenic choice, this soft and fluffy washable rug is actually allergy friendly.
This rug might shed loose fibers a little at first, but this is normal for wool and will diminish after vacuuming it a few times. You can also machine-wash it as needed on a gentle cycle with cold water. While the price is a bit steep for a washable rug, it’s not necessarily out of line for wool rugs. And this one comes with an anti-slip rug pad, which makes it a pretty great value overall. We wish it came in more colors, but otherwise, we have no complaints.
Price at time of publish: $575
Dimensions: 5.5 x 8 feet | Material: Wool
If you ask us, the best washable rug is the Ruggable Kamran Coral Rug. Available in nine colors, it features a timeless, versatile Persian-inspired design and is made to resist stains and moisture damage. For those on a budget, we recommend the charming, time-worn ReaLife Distressed Boho Machine Washable Rug, which has a grippy rubberized backing. And folks who prefer wool should go with the Lorena Canals Almond Valley Washable Wool Rug.
What to Consider When Buying a Washable Rug
Size
The first thing to think about when buying a washable rug is the size. You'll want to carefully measure your space and check the dimensions before ordering anything to ensure it'll fit. "Make sure the measurements are the right size to fit in your washing machine," Balanzat adds.
Some rugs are only available in one size. However, many come in a wide array of sizes and shapes, like the NuLoom Brielle Machine Washable Vintage Medallion Area Rug, which is available in 15 sizes and four shapes.
Material
"The most popular material for machine-washable rugs is polyester," says Balanzat, adding that the durable fabric stands up to the agitation and spin cycle of a washing machine. "Polyester is a budget-friendly option but has the perks of a higher-end rug with its soft touch."
If you want something plusher, warmer, and even more durable, you might consider a wool rug, like the Lorena Canals Almond Valley Washable Wool Rug. There are also cotton designs, like the Lorena Canals Grey Stars Washable Rug.
Pattern and Style
Washable rugs come in various styles. There are patterned options like the World Market Black and Ivory Persian Style Washable Area Rug and traditional Persion-inspired designs, like the Ruggable Kamran Coral Rug. Many rugs also come in numerous colors and shapes, including rectangular, square, round, and runner, so you'll definitely find something that works with your space.
Care and Maintenance
Easy-to-wash rugs can be cleaned in a washing machine, usually with cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. That said, many require extra-large drums and may not be dryer-friendly, as with the Moynesa Ultra-Thin Washable Vintage Area Rug.
"Double-check the fine print before buying," says Balanzat. "Some rugs are advertised as washable but are not able to be cleaned in a washing machine."
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What rugs are machine-washable?
Machine-washable rugs are generally relatively thin and small enough to fit in a standard machine. In most cases, this type of rug is made of polyester, though you'll also find cotton and wool options. Some (but not all) can be dried in a dryer.
"Before drying, make sure your machine is set to low heat or an 'air only' cycle," says Balanzat. "This will ensure your rug lasts as long as possible while looking vibrant and fresh." If it's not dryer-friendly, you can hang it up or lay it flat to dry.
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Can I vacuum a washable rug?
Most washable rugs can be vacuumed. However, since they're typically on the thinner side, high suction power can be too strong, potentially sucking up the material and getting it caught. Your best bet is to use low suction power without a beater brush.
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How often should you wash rugs?
Generally speaking, you should wash a rug about once a year—whether in a washing machine, with a carpet cleaner, by taking it to a dry cleaner, or by hiring a professional. In between washes, vacuuming your rug regularly and shaking it out periodically will help it stay clean and free of dust and debris.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance writer and product tester specializing in home goods and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed laundry and dry-cleaning expert Rechelle Balanzat of Juliette Cleaners, who offered insight into the benefits and care requirements of washable rugs. After considering dozens of options from various brands, she narrowed it down to the most durable, low-maintenance, visually appealing designs. Theresa has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. You can read more of her articles on Travel + Leisure, People, and Byrdie.