October 6, 2011. Samuel Valero
If you want style in your home but would rather avoid all the hassles of maintaining and cleaning an area rug, then area rugs are the perfect home accents for you. There are many different kinds of area rugs, and the most popular among busy homeowners are washable area rugs because it demands little maintenance.
However, just like any other home accent that you may purchase, there are advantages and disadvantages alike to having a washable area rug in your home. Consider each carefully before deciding to buy one for your home, or if you are thinking of replacing your existing one.
The biggest advantage of washable area rugs is that they are machine washable. While you may still need to vacuum your washable are rug regularly in order to keep it clean, you can just place it in your washing machine and dryer if ever there is a spill on the rug. Compared to other area rugs that need dry cleaning or special treatment in the event of a stain, a washable area rug is much easier to deal with. This makes washable area rugs appropriate for dining rooms, or for homes with pets and children. In other words, if you already find it difficult to keep your house clean, a washable area rug is a good way to make your life easier.
Despite this convenience, one disadvantage of washable floor rugs is that, precisely because they are machine washed and dried, they can discolor or fade easily. If you machine wash your washable area rug too much it may deteriorate in quality and can be more exposed to damage. The material may thin out and eventually develop runs and holes. It may also discolor if exposed to bleach and harsh detergents too often. In order to prevent this from happening, or to reduce the risk of this happening, use mild detergents and set the washing machine on delicate when washing the area rug.
In order to really keep your area rug intact whether it is washable or not, nothing beats rading the tag on the rug or contacting your rug’s manufacturer.
Updated October 6, 2011. Published June 17, 2011. Samuel Valero
