The Ultimate Guide to Washing Your Ruggable: Keeping Your Washable Rug Clean and Fresh

Ruggable rugs have revolutionized the way we think about home decor. Their innovative two-part system – a lightweight rug cover paired with a non-slip rug pad – makes it incredibly easy to clean up spills and messes. No more stressing over stains or expensive professional cleaning! This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to wash your Ruggable, ensuring it stays clean, fresh, and beautiful for years to come.

Why Choose Ruggable? The Benefits of Washable Rugs

Before diving into the washing process, let’s appreciate why Ruggable rugs are so popular:

• Easy Cleaning: The biggest advantage! Simply detach the rug cover and toss it in the washing machine.
• Stain Resistance: Ruggable rugs are designed to resist stains, making them perfect for high-traffic areas, homes with kids, and pet owners.
• Style Versatility: Ruggable offers a vast selection of designs, colors, and sizes, allowing you to easily update your home decor.
• Affordability: Compared to the cost of professional rug cleaning or replacing stained rugs, Ruggable is a cost-effective solution.
• Convenience: No more lugging heavy rugs to the cleaners. You can wash your Ruggable rug in the comfort of your own home.

Preparing Your Ruggable for Washing

Before tossing your Ruggable cover into the washing machine, take a few preliminary steps to ensure optimal cleaning and prevent any damage.

1. Check the Care Label: While most Ruggable covers are machine washable, it’s always a good idea to double-check the care label on your specific rug. This will provide specific instructions and recommendations for washing.
2. Remove Debris: Give your rug cover a good shake outdoors to remove loose dirt, dust, and pet hair. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to thoroughly clean the surface. Pay special attention to edges and corners where debris tends to accumulate. A quick once-over with a lint roller can also help remove any stubborn pet hair.
3. Pre-Treat Stains (Optional): For stubborn stains, consider pre-treating them before washing. Use a mild stain remover or a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Apply the solution to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently blot it with a clean cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the rug fibers and fade the colors.
4. Check for Tears or Damage: Inspect the rug cover for any tears, holes, or loose threads. Repair any minor damage before washing to prevent it from worsening in the washing machine. You can use a needle and thread to stitch up small tears or secure loose threads.

Washing Your Ruggable: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get to the main event: washing your Ruggable rug cover. Follow these steps for a successful and effective cleaning process:

1. Choose the Right Washing Machine: Ruggable recommends using a front-loading washing machine without an agitator. Agitators can be rough on the rug cover and may cause damage. If you only have a top-loading machine with an agitator, consider using a large mesh laundry bag to protect the rug cover. Ensure your washing machine is large enough to accommodate the rug size. Overloading the machine can prevent proper cleaning and may damage the machine.
2. Select the Correct Water Temperature: Most Ruggable rugs can be washed in cold water. Cold water is gentle on the fibers and helps prevent fading. However, always refer to the care label for specific temperature recommendations. If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn stains, you can use warm water, but avoid hot water as it can damage the rug.
3. Use a Mild Detergent: Opt for a mild, non-bleach detergent. Harsh detergents can damage the rug fibers and fade the colors. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue on the rug cover. Choose a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or one that is labeled as color-safe.
4. Load the Rug Cover into the Washing Machine: Carefully load the rug cover into the washing machine, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Avoid overcrowding the machine, as this can prevent proper cleaning. If you’re using a mesh laundry bag, place the rug cover inside the bag before loading it into the machine.
5. Select the Gentle Cycle: Choose the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. This cycle uses a slower spin speed and less agitation, which is gentler on the rug cover. Avoid using the heavy-duty or normal cycle, as these cycles can be too harsh.
6. Add Detergent: Add the appropriate amount of mild detergent to the washing machine dispenser. Follow the detergent manufacturer’s instructions for dosage. Avoid using too much detergent, as this can leave a residue on the rug cover.
7. Start the Washing Machine: Start the washing machine and let it run its cycle. Keep an eye on the washing machine during the cycle to ensure there are no issues.
8. Extra Rinse (Optional): After the washing cycle is complete, consider running an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the detergent is removed from the rug cover. This is especially important if you used a lot of detergent or if you have sensitive skin.

Drying Your Ruggable: Air Drying vs. Machine Drying

Once your Ruggable rug cover is washed, it’s time to dry it. You have two options: air drying or machine drying. Here’s a breakdown of each method:

Air Drying

Air drying is the most gentle method for drying your Ruggable rug cover. It helps prevent shrinkage and fading, and it’s also environmentally friendly.

1. Remove the Rug Cover from the Washing Machine: Carefully remove the rug cover from the washing machine. Give it a gentle shake to remove excess water.
2. Hang the Rug Cover: Hang the rug cover on a clothesline or drying rack. Make sure the rug cover is evenly distributed to prevent stretching. Avoid hanging the rug cover in direct sunlight, as this can cause fading.
3. Allow the Rug Cover to Dry Completely: Allow the rug cover to dry completely before placing it back on the rug pad. This may take several hours or even a day, depending on the humidity and temperature.

Machine Drying

If you’re short on time, you can machine dry your Ruggable rug cover. However, it’s important to use the lowest heat setting to prevent shrinkage and damage.

1. Remove the Rug Cover from the Washing Machine: Carefully remove the rug cover from the washing machine. Give it a gentle shake to remove excess water.
2. Place the Rug Cover in the Dryer: Place the rug cover in the dryer. Ensure the dryer is large enough to accommodate the rug size. Avoid overcrowding the dryer, as this can prevent proper drying.
3. Select the Lowest Heat Setting: Select the lowest heat setting on your dryer. High heat can damage the rug fibers and cause shrinkage.
4. Dry the Rug Cover: Dry the rug cover until it is completely dry. Check the rug cover periodically to ensure it is not overheating.
5. Remove the Rug Cover from the Dryer: Remove the rug cover from the dryer as soon as it is dry. Avoid over-drying, as this can damage the rug fibers.

Reassembling Your Ruggable

Once your Ruggable rug cover is clean and dry, it’s time to reassemble it with the rug pad.

1. Lay the Rug Pad on the Floor: Place the rug pad on the floor in the desired location. Ensure the rug pad is clean and dry.
2. Place the Rug Cover on the Rug Pad: Carefully place the rug cover on the rug pad, aligning the corners and edges.
3. Smooth Out the Rug Cover: Smooth out the rug cover to remove any wrinkles or creases. Use your hands or a flat object, such as a ruler or credit card, to smooth out the rug cover.
4. Enjoy Your Clean Ruggable: Enjoy your clean and fresh Ruggable rug!

Tips for Maintaining Your Ruggable

To keep your Ruggable rug looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:

• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your Ruggable rug regularly to remove dirt, dust, and pet hair. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to avoid damaging the rug fibers.
• Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining. Blot the spill with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing the spill, as this can spread the stain.
• Rotate Your Rug Regularly: Rotate your Ruggable rug regularly to distribute wear evenly. This will help prevent fading and wear in high-traffic areas.
• Use a Rug Pad: Always use a Ruggable rug pad under your rug cover. The rug pad provides cushioning, prevents slipping, and protects your floors.
• Wash Your Ruggable Regularly: Wash your Ruggable rug cover regularly to keep it clean and fresh. Follow the washing instructions outlined above.

Troubleshooting Common Ruggable Washing Issues

Even with the best intentions, you might encounter some issues when washing your Ruggable. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Shrinkage: To minimize shrinkage, always wash your Ruggable in cold water and dry it on the lowest heat setting or air dry it.
• Fading: To prevent fading, avoid washing your Ruggable in hot water or exposing it to direct sunlight. Use a color-safe detergent.
• Wrinkling: To reduce wrinkling, remove your Ruggable from the dryer as soon as it’s dry and smooth it out on the rug pad. You can also use a steamer to remove wrinkles.
• Stains That Won’t Come Out: For stubborn stains, try pre-treating them with a stain remover before washing. You can also try soaking the rug cover in a solution of water and vinegar before washing.
• Damage to the Washing Machine: To prevent damage to your washing machine, avoid overloading it and use a mesh laundry bag if you have a top-loading machine with an agitator.

Ruggable Alternatives and Considerations

While Ruggable is a fantastic option, it’s worth considering alternatives and factors to ensure it’s the right choice for you.

• Cost: Ruggable rugs can be an investment. Consider your budget and compare prices with other washable rug options.
• Style: Ruggable offers a wide variety of styles, but explore other brands to find designs that perfectly match your aesthetic.
• Durability: While Ruggable rugs are durable, consider the level of traffic in the area where you plan to place the rug. High-traffic areas may require more frequent washing.
• Size: Ensure you choose the right size rug for your space. Measure your room carefully before purchasing.
• Alternatives: Explore other washable rug brands that offer similar features and benefits. Some popular alternatives include Lorena Canals, Well Woven, and Boutique Rugs (look for those specifically labelled as washable).

Extending the Life of Your Ruggable

By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your Ruggable rug looking its best for years to come:

• Invest in a Good Vacuum Cleaner: A quality vacuum cleaner will effectively remove dirt and debris without damaging the rug fibers.
• Consider a Rug Protector Spray: A rug protector spray can help repel stains and make it easier to clean up spills.
• Avoid Sharp Objects: Be careful not to drag sharp objects across the rug surface, as this can damage the fibers.
• Trim Loose Threads: If you notice any loose threads, trim them with scissors. Do not pull them, as this can damage the rug.
• Store Your Ruggable Properly: If you’re not using your Ruggable rug, store it in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a damp environment.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Convenience and Beauty of Your Clean Ruggable

Ruggable rugs offer a fantastic combination of style, convenience, and practicality. By following these simple washing and maintenance tips, you can keep your Ruggable rug clean, fresh, and beautiful for years to come. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can easily clean up spills and messes without the stress of traditional rug cleaning. Happy washing!