The 17 Best Washable Rugs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

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Our top pick is the Tumble Tabor Washable Rug

<p>People / Kristin Kempa</p>

People / Kristin Kempa

Regardless of your flooring type, area rugs can make a space come to life, as they add tons of gorgeous texture and design, plus a cozy touch. The only problem is that rugs are a pain to clean. Traditionally, rugs require professional cleaning to keep in tip-top shape, which can be costly and time-consuming. As a result, many — especially those with young kids or pets — might opt to forgo a rug in the name of a stain-free floor. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Thanks to washable rugs (a.k.a. rugs you can throw in the washing machine), you can indulge in a nice rug without the stress of a mess.

“Washable rugs are so great because it opens doors to busy families looking to have a beautiful home even though they have children and pets in a space,” says Jennifer Lynn, a design expert and CEO of Jennifer Lynn Interiors. “All too often, clients will say they cannot have something because their children are young; [washable rugs] are a perfect opportunity to educate on the best materials to support having rambunctious families and a comfortable and gorgeous home you can relax in,” she adds.

In addition to not worrying about destroying your dream rug, washable rugs make keeping a clean home a tad bit easier, as most can go in a washing machine and require little to no effort when cleaning. Being able to wash rugs more regularly can not only make your home look cleaner — especially if it’s prone to stains — but feel cleaner, too. Plus, you can finally add a chic rug under your kitchen table without the headache of tidying it.

Whether you’re looking for washable area rugs, runners, or the perfect mat for pets, you’re in the right space. Our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of washable rugs ranging in size, style, and purpose, then took them into the lab to get a better idea of their performance. We used brushes to test for snagging and shedding, wine and coffee for spills and stains, and soil for dirt and debris to get a better idea of how well washable rugs can perform. After extensive testing, we landed on these top 17 picks for the best washable rugs.

Best Overall: Tumble Tabor Washable Rug & Cushioned Rug Pad

Buy at Tumbleliving.com

Pros

  • The woven design is highly durable and doesn’t snag when brushed.

  • It’s easy to clean spills (including wine and coffee stains) and vacuum up dirt.

  • The rug comes with a cushioned rug pad for added comfort and security.

Cons

  • It’s not available in round or square shapes.

After testing several washable rugs for durability, we found that the Tumble Tabor Washable Rug is the best washable rug overall. This rug is constructed from a washable polyester material with a low pile — so it’s great for high-traffic areas of the home — and comes in several popular sizes ranging from a smaller 3x5 size to a larger 9x12 size. And, while it’s not the cheapest option on our list, the price range is fair for a high-quality, durable, and washable rug option.

When testing the rug in our lab, we found that it didn’t snag when brushed, and cleaning up wine and coffee stains was a total breeze. We were particularly impressed with how easy it was to soak up spills with just a paper towel and, once we applied a cleaning solution to the spill, the rug looked good as new. In addition to its washable technology, the rug also comes with a rug pad that helps keep it in place, providing additional cushioned comfort for your soles.

Price at time of publish: From $99 

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 3x5, 5x7, 2.5x10, 2.5x7, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12 feet | Pile: Low

Best Budget: Threshold Vintage Distressed Rug

Buy at Target.com

Pros

  • The washable rug is ultra-grippy without the addition of a rug pad.

  • The rug is highly durable and doesn’t snag when brushed or clawed.

  • Despite a budget-friendly price tag, the rug features a high-quality design.

Cons

  • Stains are a little tougher to remove by spot cleaning alone. We recommend giving this rug a thorough wash if you spill dark liquids on it.

When it comes to high-quality rugs on a budget, Target is one of our go-to places to shop — and the Threshold Vintage Distressed Rug did not disappoint. This washable rug features a vintage-inspired design with intentional distressing and a gorgeous neutral pattern throughout. It’s constructed from nylon and olefin with a latex backing and features a grippy back that keeps it in place without the additional need for a rug pad or rug tape.

Aside from its lower-end price tag, we were most impressed by this washable Target rug for its durability and high-quality design. The rug never snagged with the brush test, and it was easy to vacuum dirt up for a clean surface. Stains are a little tough to remove by just spot cleaning, though, so we recommend giving this rug a thorough wash if you happen to spill dark liquids on top.

Price at time of publish: From $30

Material: Nylon, olefin, latex | Size Options: 2.4x7, 2.6x3.10, 5x7, 7x10, 10x12 feet | Pile: Low

Best Wool: AllModern Machine Washable Hand-Woven Wool Area Rug

Buy at Wayfair.com

Buy at Allmodern.com

Pros

  • The rug is crafted from 100 percent wool, giving it a more eco-friendly construction.

  • It’s technically a medium-high pile, but it’s on the shorter side so it’s still great for high-traffic areas.

  • It’s easy to clean, and most spills are removed by blotting with a paper towel.

Cons

  • When brushed, we noticed some slight snagging.

If you’re looking for the best washable wool rug, consider the AllModern Machine-Washable Hand-Woven Wool/Ivory Charcoal Rug. This washable rug is made from 100 percent wool and features a flatweave design with a medium to high pile. Despite its height, the rug is durable enough to use in high-traffic areas, so it’s a great choice for those who love the plush texture of a high-pile rug but need something durable enough for high-traffic areas.

When conducting the brush test, we found that it snags slightly, so it might not be the best option for those with dogs or cats. However, it held up well with the spill test and we found that all you need is a paper towel to effectively blot away coffee and wine spills.

Price at time of publish: From $128

Material: Wool | Size Options: 2x8, 3x5, 4x6, 5x8, 6x9 feet | Pile: Medium

Related: The 13 Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Stain Resistant: Better Homes & Gardens Abstract Machine Washable Area Rug

Buy at Walmart.com

Pros

  • Coffee and wine spills sit on top of the rug without soaking in, so it’s a great stain-resistant option.

  • The rug doesn’t snag when brushed, so it’s a great choice for pet owners.

  • It doesn’t come with a rug pad or backing, but it still stays in place.

Cons

  • The rug is on the thinner side, so you might want to purchase a rug pad separately if using it on hardwood or tile floors.

For the best stain-resistant washable rug, consider the Better Homes & Gardens Abstract Machine-Washable Rug. The rug is constructed from a durable polyester material with a low-pile texture and comes in two sizes and a runner option as well. After spilling wine and coffee on this rug, we noticed that the spills never soaked in and instead sat right on top of the surface of the rug, making cleanup super easy. Additionally, the rug doesn’t snag or shed when brushed, so it’s a great option for pet owners, too.

Although the rug is thin and doesn’t come with a rug pad or backing, we still found that it stays in place well, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping on top of hardwood or tile flooring (but you might want to purchase a pad for extra comfort).

Price at time of publish: From $34.98

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x7, 5x7, 7.2x9.10 feet | Pile: Low

Best Indoor/Outdoor: Iohouze Boho Area Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • With its durability and washable technology, the rug is excellent for utility purposes.

  • When combed with a brush, it doesn’t snag or shed.

  • It costs less than $20 for a 3x5 rug.

Cons

  • The rug doesn’t have an anti-slip backing so we recommend purchasing one separately if you want a little more security.

With its durable cotton construction, the Iohouze Indoor/Outdoor Washable Rug is our top pick for the best indoor/outdoor option. This budget-friendly option comes in a 3x5 size for less than $20 and features a low-pile texture that makes it ideal for high-traffic areas. Additionally, it doesn’t snag or shed when brushed and you can easily blot away spills without any leftover residue.

While the rug itself is durable and makes for a great utility option, it doesn’t have an anti-slip backing so we recommend purchasing one separately if you want a little more security for high-traffic areas. Additionally, the corners tend to curl up after unpacking, so the use of rug tape is required to flatten it out.

Price at time of publish: $17.99

Material: Cotton | Size Options: 3x5 feet | Pile: Low

Related: The 8 Best Indoor/Outdoor Rugs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best for Kids: Lahome Washable Area Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • Wine and coffee spills bead to the surface of this rug, making it easy to blot clean.

  • It’s designed with a non-skid backing so it doesn’t slip on hardwood and tile flooring.

  • The rug doesn’t shed or snag when brushed (though the texture changes slightly).

Cons

  • Despite its anti-slip backing, the surface material feels silky soft and could feel slippery when walking with socks on.

The best washable rug for kids is the Lahome Washable Rug. Available in area, runner, and round shapes, this low-pile washable rug is constructed from a durable polyester material and features a non-skid backing that keeps it in place on hardwood and tile floors.

We were most impressed with this rug during the spill test as the coffee and wine bead to the surface instead of absorbing into the rug, so it was easy to blot away with a paper towel. The rug has an anti-slip backing but it’s worth noting that the surface isn’t anti-slip as it has a silky texture that could feel slippery when wearing socks or slippers on top.

Price at time of publish: From $23.99

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x3, 2x4, 2x6, 2x7, 2x8, 2x10, 3 (round), 3x5, 4 (round), 4x6, 5 (round) 5x7, 6 (round), 6x9, 8x10 feet | Pile: Low

Related: The 10 Best Anti-Fatigue Mats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Reversible: Lorena Canals Reversible Washable Area Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Pros

  • The rug features a reversible design so you get two rugs in one.

  • Wine and coffee stains don’t soak through this washable rug, making it easy to blot away spills.

  • Despite its short pile, the rug feels ultra-plush and cushioned.

Cons

  • It didn’t hold up during our brush test, so it’s not ideal for cat and dog owners.

The Lorena Canals Reversible Washable Rug is our top pick for this category because it features a reversible design and holds up well against stains and spills. Constructed from cotton, this rug features a short yet ultra-plush and cushioned pile and a subtle striped design.

When we poured coffee and wine on the rug, we noticed that the liquids sat on top of the rug instead of absorbing into the cotton fibers, so it was super easy to blot spills away with a paper towel. Although the rug held up with the spill test, the same can’t be said for the brush test. When brushing the rug, it snagged and shed quite a bit, so it’s not the most ideal for those with cats and dogs.

Price at time of publish: From $159 

Material: Cotton | Size Options: 2.7x4.7, 4x5.3, 5.7x7.10 feet | Pile: Short

Best for Pets: Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Sinclair Machine Washable Area Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Wayfair.com

Pros

  • Liquid spills sit on the surface of the rug without absorbing, so it’s easy to clean out urine stains.

  • When brushed, it didn’t snag or shed, making it a durable choice for pet owners.

  • The rug features a super soft surface, making it a comfortable option for high-traffic lounge areas such as the living room.

Cons

  • Vacuuming dirt was a little trickier with this rug and took a few passes with a vacuum to fully clean.

When shopping for the best rug for pets, you want something that can withstand wear and tear caused by claws as well as accidents, hairballs, and more. Our top pick for this category is the Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Sinclair Machine-Washable Rug because, in addition to its chic style, it’s highly durable and easy to clean. When testing for spills, we noticed that liquid sits on top of the carpet without absorbing, making it easy to blot away stains. And, when brushed, the rug doesn’t shed or snag.

With its super soft, plush surface, it’s an excellent option for high-traffic lounge areas such as the living room or bedroom. And, although you have to pass a vacuum over it a few times to get dirt and crumbs up, the rug is easy to fully clean and durable enough for daily interaction.

Price at time of publish: From $36.78

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2.3x3x9, 3.6x5.6, 5x7, 7.6x9.6, 8.6x11.6, 2x5, 2.3x7.6, 2.3x9.6, 2.3x11.6, 1x6 feet | Pile: Low

Related: The 7 Best Pet Cameras of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Cotton: Revival Bootcut Washable Rug

Buy at Revivalrugs.com

Pros

  • It’s constructed from recycled cotton, giving it an eco-friendly edge.

  • The rug comes in small entryway sizes as well as large area rug sizes.

  • It’s easy to clean up spills with just a paper towel and cleaning solution, though you can also throw it in the washing machine for a deep clean.

Cons

  • Since it’s made from recycled cotton and has a more braided design, the rug isn’t plush and the texture isn’t consistent.

  • It didn’t hold up with our brush test and snagged and frayed quite a bit.

The Revival Bootcut Washable Rug is our top pick for the best cotton rug. This rug features a flat weave texture and is constructed from 100 percent recycled cotton, giving it a more eco-friendly edge. The low-pile rug comes in lots of sizes, too, including smaller entryway options and large area rug sizes. Since it’s made from recycled cotton and has more of a braided texture, the rug frays quite a bit when brushed, so it might not be ideal for cats and dogs, depending on where it’s used. That being said, it holds up against stains and liquid is easy to blot away with a paper towel and some cleaning solution. Plus, it’s machine washable so you can give it a deep clean as needed, too.

Price at time of publish: From $99 

Material: Recycled cotton | Size Options: 2x3, 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6x9, 8x10 feet | Pile: Low

Best Pattern: Ruggable Gradasi Premium Rug

Buy at Ruggable.com

Pros

  • The rug features a modern design that pairs well with just about any decor.

  • It doesn’t shed or snag, even when brushed and vacuumed.

  • The rug comes in lots of different sizes and shapes, so it’s easy to find an option that works with your specific needs.

Cons

  • Stains are a little trickier to remove and don’t come up completely with just blotting alone. Instead, we recommend using a carpet cleaner or rinsing in a washing machine for a deeper clean.

Finding a rug with a chic pattern that won’t clash with your home decor isn’t always easy. But, we love the subtle and timeless striped detailing on this Ruggable rug. In addition to its stylish design, the rug is also highly functional and a great option for those with pets or kids as it’s easy to clean and doesn’t snag or shed. Plus, it comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find an option that works for your specific needs and space.

Albeit easy to clean, it’s worth noting that removing stains and spills with blotting alone isn’t as effective as some of the other options on our list. Instead, we recommend using a carpet cleaner or rinsing the rug in a washing machine for a deep clean.

Price at time of publish: From $149

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x3, 2.5x7, 2.5x10, 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6 (round), 6x9, 8 (round), 8x10, 9x12 feet| Pile: Medium and low

Related: The 11 Best Robot Vacuums of 2023 That Will Do All of the Hard Work for You

Best Vintage Look: Ruggable Kamran Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Ruggable.com

Pros

  • The rug features a vintage-inspired Persian design and comes in several different colors, including more neutral tones.

  • You can choose between medium and low pile, depending on the area you wish to use it on.

  • Liquid doesn’t soak through the rug, so it’s easy to blot away spills and clean up potential stains.

Cons

  • It’s a little thick, so opening a door over it can be a little tricky, especially when this rug is placed on top of the carpet.

Vintage rugs are notoriously tricky to clean — but not this vintage-inspired Ruggable rug. The Kamran Rug features a subtle Persian design and comes in a variety of colors (including neutral tones) so you can find an option that works best for your aesthetic. Available in medium and low pile, the rug boasts a thicker consistency that looks and feels luxurious while remaining highly functional.

The rug might be machine washable, but you don’t need to throw it in the wash to get stains out. When testing, we found that liquid spills don’t absorb easily into the fiber, making it easy to blot away spills and protect against potential stains.

Price at time of publish: From $89

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x3, 2.5x7, 2.5x10, 2.5x12, 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6 (round), 6x9, 8 (round), 8x10, 9x12, 10x14 feet | Pile: Medium and low

Best Non-Slip: Ruggable Shag Rug

Buy at Ruggable.com

Pros

  • The rug features a detachable non-slip pad designed with Cling Effect™ technology.

  • It comes in a variety of sizes, including runner options.

  • The rug is ultra-soft and plush, making it a great option for adding cozy vibes to the bedroom or a reading nook.

Cons

  • The rug features a shag style, and its high pile makes it a little less functional for high-traffic areas.

After testing several options, we found that the best non-slip rug is the Ruggable Shag Rug. This washable rug features a detachable non-slip pad designed with Cling Effect™ technology so it doesn’t lose its stickiness and stays put on hardwood and tile floors. In addition to its non-slip backing, the rug features a soft shag surface, making it a great option for the bedroom or a cozy reading nook setup.

Since it is a more high pile, the rug isn’t as ideal for high-traffic areas as it can start to look flat over time. The thicker surface also makes it harder to open and close doors over it, so keep that in mind, too. With that said, the rug comes in lots of different sizes and shapes, so you can find one that feels more custom to your needs.

Price at time of publish: From $129

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x3, 2.5x7, 2.5x10, 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6x9 feet | Pile: High

Best for Kitchens: Rugs.com Washable Eco Plaid Indoor/Outdoor Rug

Buy at Rugs.com

Pros

  • We love that the texture has a rougher look but is super soft on your soles.

  • The rug is available in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose one that works best with your kitchen and dining needs.

Cons

  • Spills absorb into the surface of this rug but are easily removed in a washing machine.

Washable rugs are a must-have for kitchens, and this one from Rugs.com is our top pick for kitchen and dining areas. Available in 11 different sizes, the Washable Eco Plaid Indoor/Outdoor Rug features a low pile and is constructed from recycled plastic water bottles for a sustainable touch. While the texture appears rough, we love how soft it feels on the soles of your feet. We also love the subtle striped pattern which helps add some personality to your space without being too overpowering.

When testing this rug for spills, we noticed that the material is a little more absorbent than others on our list. However, the rug is super easy to clean in a washing machine, so you don’t have to worry about scrubbing out stains.

Price at time of publish: From $39

Material: Recycled plastic water bottles | Size Options: 2.2x3, 4x6, 5.3x8, 6x9, 7x10, 7.10x10, 9x12, 10x14, 2x6, 2x8, 2.7x10 feet | Pile: Low

Best for Living Rooms: Safavieh Easy Care Dilara Cross Area Rug

Buy at Walmart.com

Pros

  • Spills and stains are easy to blot out of the rug and, if needed, you can rinse it in a washing machine for a deep clean.

  • The rug features a timeless modern design that blends well with lots of home decor styles.

Cons

  • The rug snagged easily during our brush test.

When shopping for living room rugs, a low-pile and washable option is always appreciated since it’s such a high-traffic area. After testing several options, we found that the Safavieh Easy-Care Dilara Cross Rug is the best washable rug for this space because it comes in lots of different sizes — including a large 6x9 area rug size — and has a low-pile design. Plus, spills are easy to blot out of the rug and, if needed, you can always throw the rug in a washing machine for a deeper clean. The rug also features a timeless modern design that blends well with lots of home aesthetics and has a more neutral pattern so you don’t have to worry about it clashing with your decor.

Price at time of publish: From $27.19

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2x3, 2.3x4, 2.3x6, 2.3x8, 3.5, 4x6, 5x8, 6x9 feet | Pile: Low

Related: The 14 Best Leather Sofas of 2023, According to Design Experts

Best for Bathrooms: Uphome Pom Pom Round Floral Rug

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • This rug comes in a round shape that fits perfectly in bathrooms.

  • The material isn’t very absorbent, making it a good option for areas with more moisture.

Cons

  • The rug is not available in rectangle, square, or runner styles.

With its round design and durable material, the Uphome Round Rug is the best choice for bathrooms. When testing this rug out for spills, we noticed that it’s not very absorbent, so it’s ideal for areas with a little more moisture. Additionally, the rug is highly durable and doesn’t snag or shed, so it can withstand regular wear and tear. And, since it’s machine washable, you can always ensure it remains hygienic when used in the bathroom.

We love the round shape for bathrooms, however, it’s important to note that this washable rug is not available in square, rectangle, or runner shapes so its design isn’t as versatile as some of the other options on our list.

Price at time of publish: From $20.99

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2, 3, 4, 5.3 feet | Pile: Low

Related: The 13 Best Bath Towels of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Plush: West Elm Waterfall Washable Rug

Buy at Westelm.com

Pros

  • Despite its low-pile construction, the rug is dense and feels ultra-plush.

  • When brushed, the rug doesn’t shed or snag.

  • The rug features a non-slip backing that feels secure on a variety of surfaces.

Cons

  • Its design might be a little too bold for some preferences.

For a low-pile rug, the West Elm Waterfall Washable Rug features the softest surface. This plush rug is constructed from durable recycled polyester and features a bold and colorful modern design that anchors a dining table, couch, bed, or desk.

Aside from its plush texture, the rug also features a non-slip backing so it stays put on hardwood and tile surfaces. When testing for spills, we found it easy to blot up about 60 percent with a paper towel, so rinsing it in a washing machine is ideal.

Price at time of publish: From $79

Material: Recycled polyester | Size Options: 2.5x7, 3x5, 5x8, 6x9, 8x10 feet | Pile: Low

Best Textured: World Market Iman Washable Area Rug

Buy at Worldmarket.com

Pros

  • The rug features a low-pile design with the softest texture.

  • You can easily remove spills by blotting with a paper towel.

Cons

  • Its design might be too busy for some styles.

Texture is important to consider in a rug and, if you want something super soft, the World Market Iman Black and Ivory Persian-Style Washable Rug is our top recommendation. Despite its low-pile style, this rug feels super soft on the soles, so it’s a great option for high-traffic areas that require a cozy rug. Additionally, the rug is easy to clean and spills can be blotted away with a paper towel or a quick rinse in the washing machine.

Price at time of publish: From $69.99 

Material: Polyester | Size Options: 2.6x8, 3x5, 5x7, 7.6x9.6, 2.2x3.7 feet | Pile: Low

Things to Consider Before Buying a Washable Rug

Pile

Pile is one of the most important things to consider with any rug, as this can make or break its functionality. For high-traffic areas, low pile — and, in some cases, medium pile — tend to work best as you don’t have to worry about the plush material flattening and looking worn. Low-pile options are also great for rooms where a door needs to open and close on top. These types of rugs are also good for kitchens and dining areas as it’s easier to lift away crumbs from low-pile vs. high-pile rugs.

High-pile rugs tend to be a little cozier and might work best for bedrooms or reading nooks where you don’t see as much traffic. These rugs typically have a shaggier style and feel ultra-plush to the touch.

Material

When shopping for rugs you can wash, one of the key factors to consider is material. “Washable rugs require materials that are stain-resistant to prevent stains from setting in when messes are made,” says Rob Vera, the Chief Product Officer at Ruggable. He recommends materials such as polyester fabrics and polyurethane linings, which are “durable enough to withstand the day-to-day foot traffic and the wear and tear of regular washing while preventing any spills from reaching your floor.”

Lynn also says to be mindful of materials. “The materials you select will first and foremost determine if it can go in the washer,” she explains, noting that synthetic materials tend to be more durable than cotton and chenille materials.

Size

Tied with material for the most important factor, size is another important thing to think about when purchasing a rug, be it washable or not. Choosing the right-size rug for your space can make or break decor, so thinking about how big or small of a rug you need is a must. If you aren’t sure what size rug you need, use painter’s tape and measure out the outline of the rug. This will give you a better visual of what size will look best.

Washer and Dryer Setup

If you’re considering a washable rug, Vera says to examine your washer and dryer setup. “Most washable rugs are made for standard washers, however, larger sizes or higher pile heights may require equipment with a larger drum size,” he explains, adding that this information can be found on a company’s website.

Style 

When adding a rug to your space, you also want it to look good, of course. When purchasing a rug, consider rug styles and your aesthetic. “There are gorgeous styles available, ranging from traditional to vintage-inspired to contemporary,” says Lynn. “Infuse your space with what works with your decor and furnishings — you’ll be so much happier with the end result,” she adds.

Speaking of style, if your washable rug is a bigger investment, consider a more neutral style that can be easily accessorized with a variety of different furnishings and decor. This will extend the design lifespan a bit more, allowing you to make updates here and there without having to get a whole new rug each time.

<p>People / Henry Wortock</p>

People / Henry Wortock

How We Tested

  • Inspection and Setup: To find the best washable rugs, we tested 28 different options in our PEOPLE Tested lab, conducting several experiments to see how well the rugs hold up against wear and tear. We began our test by first inspecting the rugs out of the packaging to get an idea of their overall quality and what they look like before rinsing. During this inspection, we made note of the texture, design, and thickness of the rug. We also looked for any indication of low-quality construction such as loose threads and tested the rugs for non-slip capabilities by pushing them along the floor.

  • Care and Maintenance: Next, we considered how well the rugs held up against the toughest spills and stains. We reached for one tablespoon of coffee and wine and poured it onto the rugs to simulate a spill situation. After that, we let the spills sit for 10 minutes and monitored if and how the spills transformed into stains. We then used a paper towel to blot away the spill and a cleaning solution to finish up the cleaning process. To get an idea of snagging and shedding, we used a pet brush to aggressively claw at a section of the rug and made note of how this impacted the rug and, as a result, whether or not it could withstand the effects of pet claws. After testing against spills and pets, we also made note of how the rugs take to dirt by spilling soil on top of their surfaces and using a vacuum to remove the debris.

  • Overall Durability: Throughout the experimentation, we took thorough notes on the rugs’ durability. We then compiled all of our notes together and compared each experiment to get an idea of the overall testing experience. From there, we narrowed it down to the 17 best washable rugs that you see here.

<p>People / Dera Burreson</p>

People / Dera Burreson

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of rugs are machine washable?

“Typically, smaller rugs with a tight weave can be washed in a home machine,” says Wayne Edelman, the CEO of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice. “There are also rugs with detachable backing that can be washed,” he adds. Additionally, Lynn says rugs made from cotton and synthetics like polypropylene, polyester, chenille, and nylon are washable. “Wool is a natural material that is easy to clean but not so easy to dry,” she adds. Whether your rug is machine washable or not, Edelman recommends always referring to the rug’s label and manufacturer’s recommended care instructions to ensure proper care and prevent any unwanted distortion due to washing.

Do you put washable rugs in the dryer?

“Most washable rugs can go in the dryer on a low tumble drying cycle or even an air-dry cycle,” says Lynn. With that said, she says to watch out for rugs with a rubber backing, as those are best air-dried on a drying rack. She also recommends staying clear of any high heat as it could cause shrinkage or curled corners. If curled corners do occur, she says to “use a steam mop or steam iron with a towel in between to smooth it out.”

What color carpet hides dirt best?

While darker colors tend to hide dirt, Lynn says this is somewhat of a myth. “If choosing the correct materials, color doesn’t matter,” she explains. “When your focus is to find a washable rug, you will look at the materials that support your goal,” she adds, noting how the color fibers in a washable rug will be stain resistant. “This is why, in a family and pet-friendly home, a washable rug opens the door to opulence, as you are not tied down to a certain color and you can revel in the style and aesthetic you love,” Lynn adds.

<p>People / Dera Burreson</p>

People / Dera Burreson

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When researching the best washable rugs, Jessie spoke with Jennifer Lynn, a design expert and CEO of Jennifer Lynn Interiors, Rob Vera, the Chief Product Officer at Ruggable, and Wayne Edelman, the CEO of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice for expert insights and advice on washable rugs. From there, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s notes, carefully considering the rugs’ functionality as well as design details like material, pile, and sizes available. After consulting with experts and reviewing the testing experiences, she created this list of the best washable rugs.



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