A washable rug sounds almost too good to be true: a soft, good-looking floor rug that goes straight into the washing machine when the dog walks in mud or someone spills a glass of red. For busy Australian homes with kids, pets and sandy feet, it is one of the most practical upgrades you can make.
This guide covers how washable rugs work, which room suits which size, and how to wash them so they stay looking new.
What is a washable rug?
A washable rug is a thin, low-pile rug with a flexible non-slip backing, made to fit in a standard front-loading washing machine. Instead of sending your rug to a cleaner, you roll it up, wash it on a gentle cycle and let it air dry.
Most washable rugs use a soft polyester or faux-wool surface with a printed design. That keeps them light, quick-drying and surprisingly stain resistant.
Are washable rugs worth it?
- Easy cleaning: spills, pet accidents and muddy paws come out in the wash.
- Non-slip: the rubberised backing stays put on timber, tiles and floating floors, so no separate rug underlay is needed.
- Low pile: doors open over them easily and robot vacuums glide across.
- Kid and pet friendly: safe to crawl and play on, and easy to refresh.
The trade-off: a washable rug is thinner than a deep-pile wool rug. If you want a plush feel underfoot in a bedroom, layer a natural sheepskin rug on top or beside the bed.
Which size washable rug do you need?
- Lounge room: 150 x 210 cm suits most lounges; the front legs of the sofa should sit on the rug. Go up to 240 x 300 cm for large open-plan living areas.
- Dining room: the rug should extend at least 60 cm past the table on all sides, so chairs stay on the rug when pulled out.
- Hallway and kitchen: a runner of 60 x 180 cm or 60 x 240 cm. Leave 10–15 cm of floor visible on each side.
- Bedroom: 150 x 210 cm under the lower two-thirds of a queen bed.
- Nursery and kids' rooms: a round rug of 120–150 cm creates a soft play zone.
For more detail, read our rug size guide.
How to wash a washable rug
- Shake or vacuum the rug to remove loose dirt and sand.
- Roll it loosely and place it in a front-loading machine (most runners and rugs up to 150 x 210 cm fit a standard machine; larger rugs can be spot-cleaned or washed at a laundromat).
- Wash on a gentle cycle in cold or warm water (max. 30 °C) with mild detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener.
- Air dry flat or over a clothes line, out of harsh direct sun to protect the colours. Don't tumble dry.
Between washes, a quick vacuum once a week keeps the surface fresh.
Washable rug styles we love
- Sage Green Scalloped Washable Rug: soft vintage florals with a scalloped edge.
- Beige Vintage Woodland Washable Rug: neutral tones for living rooms.
- Rust Red Boho Washable Rug: warm boho pattern, also as a runner and round rug.
- Blue Woodland Rabbit Washable Rug: a playful pick for nurseries.
- Red Moroccan Trellis Washable Rug: ultra-thin, ideal for the kitchen.
See the full range in our Washable Rugs collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a rug in the washing machine?
Only if it is designed to be machine washable. Washable rugs are thin and flexible with a non-slip backing made for the wash. Traditional wool or jute rugs should not go in a washing machine.
Do washable rugs slip on floorboards?
No. The rubberised backing grips timber, tiles and laminate, so you don't need extra underlay.
Are washable rugs good for pets?
Yes. Hair vacuums off the low pile easily and accidents wash out, which makes them one of the best rug choices for dogs and cats.
How long does a washable rug take to dry?
Usually a few hours on a warm day when hung outside, or overnight indoors.