Ruggable Rug Wash & Care Guide

Start Here: What Type of Ruggable Rug Do You Have?

Ruggable rugs come in two main systems:

• 2-Piece Rug System: Includes a removable Rug Cover and a separate, interchangeable Rug Pad (available in either our Standard or Cushioned option). Only the Rug Cover goes in the washing machine.

• All-in-One Rug: A single rug with a built-in nonslip backing. The entire rug is machine-wasable. An optional All-in-One Cushioned Pad may be used underneath.

How to Wash an All-in-One Rug

Use these steps for Plush, Tufted, and Performance Weave rugs.

Note: For small spills, you may not need a full wash. See our Spot Cleaning Guide for quick cleanup instructions.

1. Pick up the entire rug from the floor.

2. Place it in the washing machine with the design side facing out.

3. Machine-wash in cold water on the delicate cycle.

4. Use a mild, non-bleach detergent.

5. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.

6. Tumble dry thoroughly on low heat. Avoid high heat.

Because All-in-One rugs have a built-in nonslip backing, they must be completely dry before going back on the floor. If your rug slides after washing, it may still be damp. Place it back in the dryer for another partial cycle on low heat.

Larger Sizes: Some larger sizes are too bulky for standard home appliances and require commercial laundromat washers. Verify your home machine capacity using our Washing Machine Size Guide.

All-in-One Drying Guide

Use these minimum drying cycles as a starting point:

• One dryer cycle (~45–60 minutes) on low heat: 2x3, 3x5, 4x6, and all runners

• Two dryer cycles (~90–120 minutes) on low heat: 5x7 and 6' Round

• Three dryer cycles (~135–180 minutes) on low heat: 6x9, 8x10, and 8' Round

Tip: For rugs that need more than one cycle, remove the rug after the first cycle, adjust any damp areas, and place it back in the dryer.

Before putting the rug back on the floor, press your hand into the center and along the edges to confirm it's dry all the way through. A rug that goes back down while still damp can develop odors or affect the floor underneath.

Prefer to air dry? Lay the rug flat on a clean surface or drape it over a railing or drying rack. It's the gentlest option and eliminates any shrinkage risk entirely. Plan for several hours depending on rug size and humidity.

All-in-One Care Tips by Style

Tufted Rugs

Wavy edges after washing are normal. The rug should relax and lay flat within 12–24 hours. Vacuuming can help speed this up.

Plush Rugs

After drying, vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment to help re-fluff the texture..

Performance Weave Rugs

Performance Weave is naturally stain-resistant and easy to spot-clean, so it may not need frequent machine washing.

How to Wash a 2-Piece Rug System

Use these steps for Flatwoven, Re-Jute, Outdoor Rug Covers.

Note: For small spills, you may not need a full wash. See our Spot Cleaning Guide for quick cleanup instructions.

1. Remove the Rug Cover from the Rug Pad.

2. Place the Rug Cover in the washing machine with the design side facing out.

3. Machine-wash in cold water on the delicate cycle.

4. Use a mild, non-bleach detergent.

5. Do not use bleach.

6. Do not use fabric softener on Flatwoven or Outdoor Rug Covers.

7. Tumble dry on low heat or hang to air-dry. Avoid high heat.

Important: Never machine-wash the separate Rug Pad.

Larger Sizes: Some larger sizes are too bulky for standard home appliances and require commercial laundromat washers. Verify your home machine capacity using our Washing Machine Size Guide.

2-Piece Care Tips by Style

Flatwoven Rugs

Tumble dry on low heat or hang to air-dry. To help neutralize pet odors, add ½ cup of white vinegar to your detergent.

Re-Jute Rugs

Tumble dry on low heat or hang to air-dry. Avoid high heat.

Outdoor Rugs

Sweep or blow away leaves, dust, and dirt before washing. Do not use metal rakes or sharp tools on the rug fibers. Tumble dry on low heat or hang to air-dry. Update your outdoor living space by switching your rug with the seasons, then store it for next time to keep it looking like new.

How to Vacuum Your Ruggable Rug

Vacuuming helps keep your rug clean between washes. To avoid lifting the Rug Cover or damaging the edges, please use the recommended settings for your specific vacuum type below

• Upright, Stick, & Canister Vacuums: Use low suction/low power. If available, choose a high carpet or high pile setting.

  • Attachments: Use soft, flexible bristles or beater bars with soft bristles. Avoid stiff rotating brush bars, which can damage threaded edges and corners

  • Best Technique: Use a standard push-and-pull motion. If the rug lifts or separates from the Rug Pad, switch to a push-only motion: push the vacuum away from you, lift it completely off the rug, and reset. Always avoid vacuuming directly over the corners.

• Carpet/Floor Sweepers (Non-Electric): Use a traditional push-and-pull motion.

• Robot Vacuums: We advise against the use of autonomous robot vacuums, as they can cause fraying or damage to the edges and corners of your rug.

How to Clean Your Rug Pad

Rug Pads do not need a full wash, but occasional cleaning helps keep your rug system fresh and secure. Follow these simple steps to clean spills, remove dust, and let the pad dry fully before placing it back on the floor.

• For wet messes, spot-clean with mild soap and water using a cloth or towel.

• For dry messes, sweep or vacuum on low suction to remove dust and dirt.

• Let the pad air-dry completely before placing it back on the floor or putting your rug on top.

• Make sure hard floors are fully dry before replacing a Rug Pad.

• Do not machine-wash, tumble-dry, bleach, or submerge any Rug Pad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What detergents should I use to wash the Rug Cover?

We recommend using a mild, non-bleach detergent for all Rug Covers.

Can I use bleach on my Ruggable rug?

No. Bleach may cause colors to fade. Use a mild, non-bleach detergent instead.

Can I use fabric softener?

Do not use fabric softener on Flatwoven or Outdoor Rug Covers. For All-in-One rugs, avoid fabric softener and follow the care instructions for your rug style.

Can I put my Ruggable rug in the dryer?

Yes, many Ruggable rugs can be tumble-dried on low heat. For detailed information on 

Why is my All-in-One rug sliding after washing?

If your All-in-One rug slides after washing, it may still be damp. Place it back in the dryer for another partial cycle on low heat and make sure it is fully dry before putting it back on the floor.

Do I need to wash the whole rug for small spills?

Not always. For small spills, spot cleaning may be enough. See our Spot Cleaning Guide for full instructions.

What should I do if my rug has a stubborn stain?

Pre-treat the stain before washing. For detailed stain-removal steps, see our Spot Cleaning Guide.

Can I wash large Ruggable rugs at home?

Some larger rugs may need a commercial-sized washer or dryer. Check the Washing Machine Size Guide before washing oversized rugs at home.

Can I buy just a Rug Cover if I already own a Rug Pad?

Yes. If you already own a compatible Ruggable Rug Pad, you can purchase individual Rug Covers separately.

Having an extra Rug Cover can be helpful on laundry day, especially after spills, pet messes, or tougher stains that require a deeper wash. It also lets you keep your rug system in use while one cover is being cleaned, or replace the cover without purchasing a full new Rug System.

Can I buy just a Rug Pad?

Yes. Rug Pads are available for individual purchase if you need to replace an existing pad, restore your rug system’s grip, or upgrade your setup for added comfort.

When purchasing a new Rug Pad, make sure it matches the exact size and system type of your current rug. For example, an 8'x10' Rug Cover should be paired with an 8'x10' Rug Pad.

Please note: Standard 2-Piece Rug Covers are not compatible with All-in-One Cushioned Pads.