The Best Editor-Tested Washable Rugs You Can Buy Right Now

Rugs are one of the biggest home decor investments you can make, and not only because they make the room look nice. They also protect our floors and take the brunt of our messes. Whether it’s in a runner in a high-traffic hallway or a covering underneath the kitchen table, they end up taking beatings from shoe tracks, kid-induced spills, pet accidents, and everything else. While spot cleaning is the quickest method for tackling a stain, a washing machine can take care of many things that cleaning solutions can’t. Which is why you’ll want the best washable rugs.

But what makes a rug washable? We’re paying close attention to rugs that can be gathered into the machine’s drum and possibly even be machine-dried afterward, looking like new in a matter of hours. Essentially, the best washable rugs will combine the durability of an outdoor rug with the attractiveness and comfort of an indoor rug. To leave nothing up to chance for you, we went ahead and tested a wide variety of styles and brands, making sure they held up. Keep reading to find out which ones impressed us the most.

Break out the measuring tape! Types of rugs are first classified by size and shape: runners, area rugs, doormats, etc. When it comes to runners for hallways or kitchens, 2.5′ x 7′ is the most conventional size. With area rugs, 5’x 8′ through 9′ x 12′ is standard, though the former can more easily fit into compact washers and dryers. First, decide where you want your washable rug to go, then narrow down your material options.

It’s important to keep in mind that the larger your rug’s size, the more space it’ll take up in your washing machine. Take stock of your machine’s size to make sure using your washable rug to its fullest potential is feasible. If your rug is 6′ x 9′ or larger, you may need to utilize a 60-pound washing machine, like the ones found at laundromats or wash-and-folds. Home washing machines usually handle around 20 to 25 pounds.

Sometimes, a rug that’s crafted from a single material source — 100% long-staple cotton, for example — can be measured in GSM, or grams per square meter. This measurement is used to determine the fabric’s weight, and a higher GSM means a fluffier, thicker, and higher pile fabric.

A rug’s KPSI, or knots per square inch, can determine its value as a hand-knotted textile. The more knots per square inch, the longer a rug takes to make, and the more expensive it will be. If you’re able to take a good, up-close look at a rug, you can see just how much time and effort went into it by examining a single square inch of its surface.

The style of your rug can determine its thickness and density, which in turn, affects its ability to clean and dry well, especially in a washing machine.

• Shag: Looped and raised long-fiber yarn gives this rug type its characteristically “shaggy” and plush surface. It’s comfortable for walking and sitting on and offers a high lift off the ground.
• Rag: These rugs are quite literally crafted from rags, usually of denim or cotton, so they have a unique weave and look and are some of the most durable washable cotton rugs.
• Flat weave: Crafted without the use of knots, flat weave rugs are woven with vertical and horizontal threads that create intricate designs and a thin profile. The lack of bulk makes them easier to move for machine washing.
• Hand knotted: These rugs aren’t mass-produced, so they’re usually of higher value and come at a higher price. They also can come in intricate designs, but the texture of the weave can be seen and felt more than in flat weave rugs.
• Hand-tufted: Tufted rugs, while still more valuable than mass-produced rugs, don’t involve the intricate process of hand-knotting. Threads are punched directly onto a rug base, creating a higher, fluffier profile and the possibility for more irregular, modern designs.
• Machine-made: Possibly the most reliable option when it comes to machine washability, these rugs are usually made of synthetic materials. While a machine-made rug isn’t synonymous with cheap (again, pay attention to the KPSI), they do cost less to make.
• Faux hide: Faux hide rugs are made of synthetic fibers designed to mimic the look of natural hair and fur, so these rugs give you the benefit of a plush fleece feel or smooth hide finish without the delicate nature of real animal hides.

Tip: You can tell a rug is machine made if its fringe is sewn or glued on, the edges have visible surging, or the back of the rug is completely uniform. Handmade rugs are usually crafted in one piece and their backstitching isn’t completely perfect.

When it comes to washable rugs, the weave and materials are particularly important. We’ve broken down the more prevalent materials used to make washable rugs lighter in weight and easily washable.

Keep in mind that shopping for a washable rug will present you with materials you may not recognize or have been told to run away from (hi, polyester!). These rugs are built for wear and tear, so their materials will reflect what they’re designed to do. That said, you’re not sacrificing feel or look for functionality with any of our winners.

• Cotton: Cotton and cotton rag rugs are easy to maintain, usually rather lightweight, and soft. Since cotton is a natural fiber, it may not last as long through years of washes the way synthetic fibers do.
• Polypropylene or olefin: One of the more environmentally friendly plastics, polypropylene (known generically as olefin) is recyclable and widely used — you probably have multiple items in your home now with the main fiber being polypropylene. It’s designed to look like sisal and other natural rug fibers, so you get the look of a natural rug with added durability and resilience.
• Wool: While wool rugs can be washable, they take a very long time to dry and it’s advised that you don’t use laundry detergent, as it can leave residue on the rugs’ natural fibers and cause changes in texture and discoloration.
• Viscose or rayon: Not ideal materials for washable rugs, viscose and rayon have a beautiful shine but don’t hold dye well, so soaking or machine washing isn’t advised. Even spilled water can leave a permanent stain.
• Polyester: This synthetic material is budget-friendly, stain- and fade-resistant, can be very soft to the touch, and is totally machine washable. A little gentle detergent on the cold cycle and your polyester rug will be good as new.

Ensuring that your rug is non-toxic, especially if you have pets or kids, is a non-negotiable. We looked for washable rugs and brands with as many certifications as possible, whether they are environmentally or socially conscious (or both). Here are the ones most worth noting when it comes to rug shopping in general, a few of which you’ll see in our list.

• Craftmark certified: Indicates a genuine Indian-handmade craft product was produced in a socially-responsible manner.
• Fair Trade certified: Products are created in safe working conditions and contribute to the sustainable livelihoods of the farmers, craftspeople, and communities that create them.
• GOTS certified: Products align with the Global Organic Textile Standard, which defines the worldwide recognized requirements for organic textiles.
• GOLS certified: Products align with the Global Organic Latex Standard, which defines the worldwide recognized requirements for organic latex material.
• GoodWeave certified: Indicates a textile is made by home-based workers rather than children in areas where child labor is predominant.
• Greenguard certified: Identifies home products and materials that have low chemical emissions.
• Greenguard Gold certified: Identifies home products and materials approved via stricter qualifications, including limiting VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
• Green America certified: Certifies a brand’s commitment to social and environmental good via responsible practices, consistent improvement, and benefitting workers and communities in every facet of their company.
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified: Products are free of harmful synthetics and dyes.

We tested washable rugs across a range of materials, sizes, and brands to determine our winners. Our picks span a variety of sizes and colors, so keep in mind that if we tested a runner in red, you’ll likely find it available as a 5′ x 7′ area rug in other hues and patterns as well. Our criteria are:

• Texture: How does the rug feel when walking on it? Is it soft? Is the texture suited for high-traffic areas like entryways or low-traffic areas like bedrooms? Does it have a high or low pile?
• Stain resistance: How easily are spot stains removed? Does the rug’s material absorb or repel spills? Do stains show easily?
• Washability: How easy is it to transport the rug to and from a washing machine? Does it fit? At what temperature can it be washed? Did the texture change after washing? Were stains removed?

Cozey launched its first-ever washable rug collection in 2023, and it’s already made a splash here at Apartment Therapy. What started as three classic rug designs has since expanded to nearly a dozen in modern, abstract, and trendy styles.

Commerce coordinator Mila Hoang picked out the diamond-decked Chloe Washable Rug and thought “the final result was beautiful,” with its neutral shades taking inspiration from nature. Standing out even more is its innovative construction, which involves a two-part system. One is the cushioned. modular non-slip pad that can be configured to your preference — Mila says she “easily put [it] together within minutes” — and the gorgeous top layer. Together, the rug feels softer underfoot and it extends its life, minimizing wear.

It’s even more kid- and pet-friendly because it’s lightweight enough to fit into the washing machine without a struggle. The top layer is the machine-safe piece, and Mila adds that “the rug itself felt sturdy and it was easy to put it in the washer to remove all previous food stains.” To return it to its unmarked state, all you have to do is wash it on a gentle and cold cycle and hang it to dry or tumble dry on low.

Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a washable floor covering that’s available in a variety of styles; those looking for an area rug for a living room or bedroom.

Specifications:

• Low pile
• Available in 5 sizes and 2 colors
• Includes modular non-slip rug pad
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low or hang dry
• 5-year limited warranty

Straight out of a collaboration between Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines and Loloi, the Sinclair Machine-Washable Rug features a power-loomed polyester blend that uses over 50% recycled materials. Soft and durable, the rug is suitable for busy areas of the home, such as the living room, entryway, and hallways, due to its machine-washable make. The antique-inspired rug showcases intricate floral motifs and slight fading for a lived-in feel that doesn’t overwhelm the space it’s in.

“I’m usually a fan of super fluffy rugs, but I was impressed with how soft this was despite being low pile,” said AT’s former commerce assistant editor, Morgan. “Its vintage style and feel, combined with the low pile and easy washability, make it perfect for high-traffic areas.”

Another aspect that makes it ideal for areas that see a lot of walking is how well it holds up after machine washing. It’s fairly thin, so it folds compactly to fit inside the drum. “It felt (and looked) just as amazing after tossing it in the washer as it did out of the box,” Morgan says in her review. She draped it over her stairs’ bannister to dry, and after about a day, it was completely back to normal.

The 5′ x 7′ rug will normally cost you $189, but you can grab yours on sale for $107 right now!

Read our full review of the Magnolia Home Sinclair Rug.

Who It’s Best For: Those who aren’t looking to break the bank for a durable and design-forward rug.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester
• Low pile: 0.25″ thick
• Available in 10 sizes
• Stain-resistant, fade-resistant, water-resistant
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; hang or lay flat to dry

Ruggable has made a name for itself in the washable rug game, and for good reason — they are long-lasting and offer a huge variety of unique designs. The Iris Apfel Birds of a Feather rug found its home in shopping editor Britt’s home, with its bold pattern of tropical birds that feels glamorous and retro. It’s depicted in a warm color palette of pinks, oranges, yellows, and blues.

“I adore this rug! It’s so lively and colorful, and it makes a great addition to my dining area (although I could see it placed anywhere in my apartment),” Britt confirms. She can also attest to the brand’s dependability when it comes to how sturdy its rugs are. In fact, Britt says: “I’ve used a number of Ruggable rugs in different rooms and they’ve always held up really well — this one is no exception!”

With Ruggable rugs, you’re able to detach the interchangeable rug cover from the rug pad, which makes laundering so much easier while also preserving its grip. This one is also water- and stain-resistant, so ideally you won’t have to put it in the machine very often.

Read our full review of Ruggable’s washable rugs.

Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer to wash their rugs often; those who prioritize design and want a wide variety to choose from.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester
• Available in low and medium piles: 6-18mm thick
• Available in 3 shapes, 3 colors, and 13 sizes
• Stain-resistant and water-resistant
• Machine wash cold with delicate detergent on gentle cycle; tumble dry low (line drying recommended)
• Interchangeable with other Ruggable designs of the same size

Revival Rugs‘ bestselling Gambit Washable Rug is a mildew-resistant floor covering made from 100% recycled polyester. It features a stylish checkerboard design that’s available in five different colors and a range of sizes from runners to extra-large styles. Like other collections from Revival Rugs, this cushioned, medium-pile rug is soft and durable. It’s also OEKO-TEX certified to ensure it’s free from harmful chemicals and dyes.

“When I unboxed it and laid it out, I said, out loud, ‘There’s no way you can wash this…'” said AT’s former commerce SEO editor, Sarah, in her review. “It felt too much like a traditional rug to believe it could actually sustain a run in the washer! However, thanks to an accident with a glass of cranberry juice, I was able to put its washability to the test. And wouldn’t you know, not only was it a breeze to wash, but it left no stain behind!”

Normally $289 for a 5’3″ x 7’10”, the Revival Rug is currently on sale for $173 — that’s 40% off!

Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer something plush yet lightweight; those who prefer to sit on the floor.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester
• Medium pile: roughly 0.5″ (12mm) thick
• Available in 5 colors and 4 sizes
• Machine wash with delicate detergent on gentle cycle; tumble dry low or no heat (line dry recommended)
• OEKO-TEX certified

Rugs USA’s Ivana Cloud Rug offers a subtle checkered look and an ultra-soft plush texture. It’s made of 100% polyester, and the high-pile shag is designed to make you feel, as its name suggests, like you’re walking on a cloud. Available in a range of sizes and six colors — ranging from neutral off-white to light pink — this fluffy rug is designed with style and comfort in mind.

“This rug is so soft, I’ve actually started sitting on the floor of my bedroom regularly,” Morgan said in her review. “It’s a little slippery with socks on, but the buttery soft feel makes up for it. The checkerboard pattern is a subtle touch that adds a nice amount of visual interest, despite its lack of pattern.”

Morgan goes on to describe the rug’s maintenance in her review: “There was one occasion when I spilled a bit of juice in one spot, and it lifted off easily with a paper towel, leaving behind hardly any evidence of a spill on the beige material,” she writes, adding that she’s only spot-cleaned her rug. “It’s thick enough that I couldn’t squeeze the 7’6″x9’6″ version into my laundromat’s washing machine, but I’m sure I wouldn’t have had a problem with the 5’x8′ or anything smaller.”

Shoppers that went with smaller sizes praise how well it held up after a turn in the machine, though. “I washed and line dried this rug and was so happy with how it turned out,” says one review. “No smell, just soft fresh rug.”

While a 5’x8′ size is normally $199, you can grab yours for $169 right now (and use code SAVINGS20 for an extra discount).

Who It’s Best For: Those who like a very plush rug that’ll instantly up the coziness of a room.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester
• High pile: 0.85″ thick
• Available in 14 colors, 5 shapes, and 6 sizes
• Stain-resistant
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry without heat (line drying recommended)
• OEKO-TEX certified

The Shopping Team at Apartment Therapy Media has one mission: to help you make smart and informed purchases. We know how hard online shopping can be — it’s literally our job! From trying to decipher confusing marketing lingo to sorting through scores of fake paid reviews in search of some truth, online shopping can be overwhelming. We’re dedicated to doing the hard work for you by reviewing these products firsthand and delivering all the information you need, both good and bad.

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As experts in the home and design space, we put products to the test right where they matter: at home. Whether it’s the gadget on everyone’s wish list or the coolest-looking design finds, we bring these products into our personal spaces and test them for weeks and even months at a time to see how well they live up to their claims. Do those sheets still feel silky smooth after a couple of washes? Does that mattress remain firm or soften up too soon? Are those bath towels really quick drying or do they need an extra spin in the machine? We’ll let you know. 

Within each of our reviews, we also break down the different ways that we critique products. In some cases, we’re testing products head-to-head on things like price, ease of use, and durability. In others, we’re comparing new products to personal favorites or ones we’ve tested in the past. No matter what, we’ll always break down the ins and outs of a product. At the end of the day, we’re consumers too, so we’ll provide you with all the information we’d want — and then some.

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