Washing area rugs in a washing machine is possible for smaller rugs made of durable materials; however, carefully consider your rug's size and material before attempting.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare the Rug
- Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum both sides of the rug to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents clogging your washing machine.
- Spot Treat Stains: Pretreat any stains with a stain remover or a small amount of laundry detergent. Let it sit for the time recommended by the stain remover.
- Check the Label: Look for a care label. If it says "Dry Clean Only," do not attempt to wash it in the machine.
2. Select Wash Cycle and Settings
- Use Cold Water: Cold water helps prevent shrinking and color fading.
- Choose a Gentle Cycle: This minimizes wear and tear on the rug fibers.
- Use a Mild Detergent: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the rug or leave residue. Use a small amount.
- Skip the Bleach: Bleach can damage or discolor many rug materials.
- Consider a Mesh Laundry Bag: For very small, delicate rugs, place them in a mesh laundry bag for added protection.
3. Washing the Rug
- Load Carefully: Ensure the rug fits comfortably in your washing machine without being overly crammed. An overloaded machine can be damaged.
- Wash Alone: Wash the rug by itself to prevent dye transfer to other items and to ensure the rug gets properly cleaned.
- Extra Rinse Cycle (Optional): Consider adding an extra rinse cycle to remove all detergent residue.
4. Dry the Rug
- Shake Out Excess Water: Carefully remove the rug from the washing machine and shake out as much water as possible.
- Air Dry: The best method is to air dry the rug outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Lay it flat or hang it over a clothesline. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the colors.
- Tumble Dry (Low Heat, with caution): Only if the care label allows, you might be able to tumble dry the rug on a very low heat setting. However, air drying is generally recommended to avoid shrinkage or damage. Check frequently during drying.
- Ensure Thorough Drying: Make sure the rug is completely dry before placing it back on the floor to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Important Considerations
- Size and Material: Only wash small area rugs (bath mats, small kitchen rugs) made of durable, machine-washable materials like cotton or synthetic fibers. Large or delicate rugs (wool, silk, viscose) should be professionally cleaned.
- Washing Machine Capacity: Don't overload your washing machine. If the rug is too large, it could damage the machine.
- Colorfastness: Test a small, inconspicuous area of the rug with water and detergent to check for color bleeding before washing.
- Rubber Backing: Rugs with rubber or latex backing may shed or crumble in the washing machine. Hand washing or professional cleaning is recommended.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively wash certain area rugs in your washing machine. Remember to always prioritize the care instructions on the rug's label.
