There’s nothing worse than spilling red wine on your favorite piece of home decor – unless it’s a washable rug, of course.
While a good rug can transform any space in your home (texture, aesthetic, and comfort), accidents happen and when they happen to your not-so-inexpensive, bohemian flooring, they can be tortuously hard to clean up — not to mention stressful.
Traditionally, rugs need to be professionally cleaned when stains occur, which gets expensive and time-consuming. Because of this, many with kids or fur babies opt for machine-washable rugs.
As a mom of a toddler, I know firsthand how washable rugs give parents or those who struggle to keep spills at bay peace of mind so they can enjoy a fabulous carpet without the stress. All you need to do is throw your rug into the washing machine and carefully read through the brand’s recommendations for further care. Not only will this make your home look cleaner, but it will also remove germs that may collect on your rug over time.
- Best Washable Rug Overall: Mina Modern Stripes Reversible Machine Washable Area Rug
- Best Washable Entryway Rug: Ruggable Palazzo Soft Black Re-Jute Rug
- Best Washable Dining Rug: Hokku Designs Machine Washable Indoor/Outdoor Kitchen Mat
- Best Non-Wrinkle Washable Rug: Ruggable Radiant Rug in PANTONE
- Best Washable Bathroom Rug: Parachute Organic Mosaic Tub Mat
It’s important to consider durable, washable materials as well as high-quality construction when choosing a washable rug for inside or outside your home. Cotton, polyester, and polypropylene are typically easier-to-clean substances than wool or silk rugs, and will likely withstand washing.
To guide you in the right direction, The Post has rigorously tested some of the best washable rugs from the trendiest decor destinations like Wayfair, and more. We’ve washed, dried, spot-cleaned, and lived alongside these rugs to bring you the final verdict on the best ones out there.
Below, find the best washable rugs for every space — inside and out!
Best Washable Rug Overall: Mina Modern Stripes Reversible Machine Washable Area Rug
Pros:
- Very soft to the touch
- Four color options
- Lightweight, flexible, rolls up easily
- Four color options
Cons:
- More of a jagged, frayed edge is not for everyone
Wayfair has some of the best brands for washable, spill-proof rugs, and there’s no shortage of chic choices to select from. The living room category is filled with styles that suit a variety of aesthetics, including ultra-modern pieces like the Mina Modern Stripes rug, which features an intriguing geometric pattern that brings light and energy to any space. Not to mention, it’s reversible!
New York Post Review: “This swanky rug has racked up more compliments than any other piece of furniture or decor in my home,” stated Salemann. “The two-toned, zen design flatters a variety of spaces, whether you’re going for an artsy vibe or a more relaxed bohemian look. I also love the slightly distressed edge details. It makes it look more natural and less factory-printed than some other washable rugs I’ve seen. My favorite part is the fact that it’s reversible, so you can switch up the style if you want something different. In terms of the wash and care, I’ve noticed that the short fibers spot clean super easily. My toddler loves to leave a trail of crumbs wherever she goes, and this is one of the easiest rug to tidy up.”
Size options: 6 | Material: Cotton, Polyester | Shapes: Geometric | Color options: 10
Best Washable Area Rug: Lahome Modern Rainbow Easy Jute Rug
Pros:
- Lower price point
- The vibrant design adds a cheerful touch to any space
- Jute material is durable and eco-friendly
Cons:
- Jute rugs may have a rougher texture
Brighten your space with the Lahome Modern Rainbow Easy Jute Rug without breaking the bank. Its vibrant colors and durable construction make it the perfect budget-friendly option for adding a pop of personality to any room. Select from a handful of styles and sizes for the perfect match.
Size options: 11 | Material: Polyester | Shapes: Geometric | Color options: 10
Best Washable Entryway Rug: Ruggable Palazzo Soft Black Re-Jute Rug
Pros:
- Eye-catching design
- Doesn’t prick your feet like some jute rugs
- Wrinkles seem to flatten out on their own
Cons:
- The runner could be tricky to fold into a washer
Looking for something washable and eye-catching? The Palazzo does both. The Soft Black Re-Jute Rug from Ruggable is a marvelous choice for anyone wanting to add natural texture to their space, according to our Updates Editor, Holly J Coley. It’s available in four different shades and five different sizes.
New York Post Review: “I loved it as soon as I unrolled it from the box,” Coley exclaimed. “It comes with a rug pad with velcro and slip-side pockets to stick it into place. I marched up and down the thing, and it didn’t budge, so if you hate constantly readjusting your runners, this is definitely for you. Most jute rugs prick your feet but not this one, which I like because I’m always barefoot! It also didn’t snag my socks when I was wearing those. I was worried about tossing the rug into the washer machine because bulky things tend to throw it off its calibration. Mine got caught on spin and I had to readjust it twice before it was okay to toss in the dryer. I will say, that it looked just like new once I was done and in a few minutes, most wrinkles had flattened themselves out. I do wish I had tried it in a longer size, but regardless, it’s completely changed the vibe of my apartment hallway.”
Size options: 5 | Material: Recycled and virgin polyester, polyurethane | Shapes: Diamond | Color options: 4
Best Washable Runner: Town & Country Luxe Livie Matisse Washable Non-Slip Backing Kitchen Runner
Pros:
- Non-slip backing provides safety in the kitchen
- Stylish pattern adds visual interest to the kitchen
Cons:
- Limited size options may not fit all kitchen layouts
Upgrade your kitchen decor with the Town & Country Luxe Livie Matisse Washable Non-Slip Backing Kitchen Runner. Its stylish design and practical features, including a non-slip backing and washable material, make it the perfect addition to any culinary space.
Size options: 1 | Material: Cotton, Polyester | Shapes: Motifs | Color options: 4
Best Washable Dining Rug: Hokku Designs Machine Washable Indoor/Outdoor Kitchen Mat
Pros:
- Comes in a variety of shapes and sizes
- UV-stabilized
- The super short fibers are easy to wipe clean
- Folds into a washing machine easily
Cons:
- The color is a bit lighter/grayer than the photo on the website
Wayfair’s washable rug selection is also filled with plenty of low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for options. Shoppers love the Hokku Designs kitchen mat for high-traction areas due to its fat-drying fibers and non-skid backing. It’s also pretty lightweight and flexible, which makes it easier to fold up and throw in the wash.
New York Post Review: “Hokku Designs offers some lovely washable rugs if you’re someone who prefers a cleaner, more understated look in an area that gets a lot of foot traction,” said Salemann. “I have their washable kitchen rug in the round and runner-style, and I wouldn’t want any other rugs in my dining and cooking spaces. The smooth, super-trimmed fibers don’t attract anywhere near the same amount of grime and dust as a typical furry rug. It’s also ultra-thin, which makes it easy to fold up and throw through a wash-and-dry cycle. I have a small, fragile washing machine, and it handled it without any issues. It’s also practical but pretty, too. The gentle shift in tones seems to mellow out my space, and the tones seem to change through the day, depending on how much sunlight we get. I will say that the shade seems a bit grayer than the photo on the website, but it doesn’t bother me at all.”
Size options: 1 | Material: Polyester | Shapes: N/A | Color options: 1
Best Non-Wrinkle Washable Rug: Ruggable Radiant Rug in PANTONE
Pros:
- Sits flat and rarely wrinkles, per our testing
- Color is more vibrant in person
- Soft and cozy material
Cons:
- Only two color options
Images don’t do it justice! This sweet and serene rug (inspired by the famous PANTONE pink sand shade) has that bright, glowy hue that we all so desire. It’s vibrant, yet atmospheric — and Ruggable customers love the way it holds up and sits flat on the floor. We had to test it out ourselves to see just how much of a statement it makes.
New York Post Review: “Chic, smooth, and soft — this darling rug doubles as the perfect play mat in my daughter’s room,” said Salemann. “The soft hues transition from gentle pink to purple, and even bits of orange, for a warming effect that lifts the mood and makes the space feel cozy and inviting. I added Ruggable’s terracotta throw pillows to balance out the colors, and now the whole room looks anew. We’ve used a few different rugs in her nursery, but this one seems to be far superior in terms of stain removal. I can spot-clean it quickly and have never seen any discoloration. I also appreciate the fact that it sits very flat on the floor and holds its position well. The surface is smooth, so my vacuum cleaner can easily roll over it. This is probably the lowest-maintenance rug I’ve ever lived with.”
Size options: 13 | Material: Recycled and virgin polyester, polyurethane | Shapes: N/A | Color options: 2
Best Washable Rug for Kids: nuLOOM Cozy Plush SuperiorWash Area Rug
Pros:
- The plush texture provides comfort
- Variety of colors to match any room decor
- Kid and pet-friendly
Cons:
- Some users may find shedding during initial use
Create a cozy and kid-friendly space with the nuLOOM Cozy Plush SuperiorWash Area Rug. Its plush texture and easy maintenance make it the perfect addition to any child’s room, providing both comfort and peace of mind for parents.
Size options: 11 | Material: Polyester | Shapes: N/A | Color options: 6
Best Lightweight Washable Rug: Ruggable Jonathan Adler Op Art Natural Rug
Pros:
- The fibers are very smooth and wipe clean easily
- Doesn’t seem to attract any lint, per testing
- Very lightweight and easy to fold
Cons:
- Prone to wrinkling (adding the rug pad helps smooth it out)
For a more artistic spin on a regular room rug, we suggest the Jonathan Adler Op Art Rug by Ruggable. It’s water-resistant, stain-resistant, and machine-washable, but still has that smooth, effortless style that elevates and softens up any space. The stripes come in four different shades, so you can find something for your aesthetic.
New York Post Review: “I’ve never been a rug-in-room type of person, but when I saw this style on Ruggable I was instantly converted,” shared Salemann. “The modern, geometric design doesn’t give any of the garage-sale-grandma vibes that I so desperately have tried to avoid my whole life. The neutral shades seem to bring out the best tones in my otherwise boring-looking room and tie together perfectly with Ruggable’s matching pillow set. I can understand why some would be opposed to a light-colored rug, but this one doesn’t seem to attract lint or even dod hair (which is incredible, considering my dog runs all over it). I will say that it is a pretty thin rug and incredibly lightweight, so it can require some smoothing out after a day of foot and paw traction.”
Size options: 12 | Material: Recycled and virgin polyester, polyurethane | Shapes: Stripes | Color options: 4
Best Washable Bathroom Rug: Parachute Organic Mosaic Tub Mat
Pros:
- Super easy to wash (not too big)
- unique, retro vibe
- Made of 100% organic cotton in Turkey
Cons:
- Pricey considering the size
Get ready to exit your showers in style. We love a retro vibe to brighten up the bathroom, and Parachute’s Organic Mosaic Tub Mat delivers. Inspired by hand-woven Turkish towels, this small mat has a fashion-forward jacquard pattern that comes in a few different colors. Not to mention, it’s made with 100% organic cotton that is harvested and handled with care, so you know you’re getting the softest, highest-quality materials.
Size options: 1 | Material: Yarn-dyed organic cotton | Shapes: Mosaic | Color options: 3
Best Outdoor Washable Rug: Ruggable goop Salerno Soft Black Re-Jute Rug
Pros:
- Less slippery than some indoor rugs
- Indoor and outdoor-friendly
- Thicker, durable material
Cons:
- Only one color option
Searching for the perfect rug for your patio or living room (or, maybe both)? This durable, anti-slip choice from Ruggable’s goop collection looks just as good inside as out. It’s a bit stiffer than some of the others on this list, which helps with traction, as well as wrinkling. We love the way it smoothly lays on the floor, and the statement-making diamond pattern.
New York Post Review: “I wanted to try a darker, more durable rug in my space for the winter months, and landed on Ruggable’s goop Salerno Soft Black Re-Jute Rug (my friend said it was giving Architectural Digest and that’s all I needed to hear). The checkered diamond design pulls together rich, earthy towns for an instantly luxurious feeling. It’s an indoor and outdoor-friendly option, made with woven jute-like material from recycled virgin polyester and polyurethane that won’t shed or fray. The best part? Liquids stand no chance against it. It’s passed the spill-and-splash test with flying colors, wiping off in an instant without the elbow work that you might have to put into cleaning a softer rug. You can see how well-constructed it is by looking at it up close. The tougher texture feels like it could withstand a wind or rain storm, no problem, but it’s still comfy and cushioned enough to walk over barefoot.”
Size options: 1 | Material: Recycled and virgin polyester, polyurethane | Shapes: Diamonds | Color options: 5
Best Vintage Washable Carpet: Nourison Astra Machine Washable Persian Sage Multi
Pros:
- Non-shedding, low-pile
- Has a Vintage-inspired look
- The yarn tones change in different light
- Variety of color options
Cons:
- Might need a commercial washer for the larger sizes
A traditional Persian rug look can cost a pretty penny, but with this super affordable Walmart find you could capture all that vintage-inspired charm without the crazy price tag. The Astra Machine Washable Collection is a popular choice with customers, who say these rugs are a breeze to clean and feature a velvety smooth texture that you’ll love to lounge on. The color tone has a bit of shimmer to it — and reflects the sun in different lights for a truly stunning interior.
Size options: 13 | Material: Polyester | Shapes: Motifs | Color options: 2
Best Washable Motif Rug: Norwell Moroccan Machine Woven Polypropylene Area Rug
Pros:
- Non-slip backing and stain-resistant
- Variety of earthy color options
- Unique geometric pattern
Cons:
- Not very soft to the touch (could be better with a pad underneath)
Not a fan of boring, basic rugs? Try something with a motif on it, and add a bit of color to your dreary space. This Moroccan rug from Wayfair is power-loomed from stain-resistant polypropylene — so you won’t have to worry about tracking in dirt or dropping cribs. It washes easily, and the earthy tones do a good job of masking any pet hair that might come across it (as our testing suggested).
New York Post Review: “My super furry dog loves to sit at my feet or on my lap while I’m working on my laptop, so I decided it was time to try out a smaller washable rug for my desk area. This one is not just functional but super charming, too. It didn’t seem to attract any of his hair, which is a huge win considering he sheds year-round. I’ll warn you that it’s not the softest rug out there — the texture is a bit rougher, but it’s not uncomfortable. It’s on the thinner side, so I’d suggest rolling it over a rug pad for a little more support.”
Size options: 6 | Material: Chenille, cotton | Shapes: Medallions | Color options: 6
How We Tested
Washable rugs are great investments for families with kids or pets — as well as anyone who loves to host guests. But, they aren’t all built the same. In order to find the best washable rugs in your home, we put some popular styles through several rounds of testing to ensure they were easy to care for and clean. They were washed and dried, spot-cleaned, and reviewed for comfort, as well as overall durability.
- Washing and Drying Tests: We evaluated how easy each rug was to wash and dry, whether it folded easily, and how it fit into a washer or dryer. We also spot-cleaned each rug to ensure easy stain removal and vacuumed to identify whether it was easy to remove dust, grime, and pet hair.
- Durability: While testing the best rugs, we observed whether there was any wear and tear from frequent traction, including loose threads or faded colors. We also considered whether the material wrinkled easily or laid smooth against the floor and if the materials were suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
- Comfortability: Comfort is paramount, considering you’re going to be frequently walking on your washable rug. We’ve lived with these rugs in our homes, taking note of the overall plushness, and thickness. softness, and quality of the material — as well as whether they might require a rug pad.
- Style and Design: Style and design are more or less subjective values, but we did consider the amount of color options and patterns that each rug came in. We also made note of the vibrancy of the tones, whether it was true to color, and how well the rug meshed with different interior spaces.
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