Ruggable covers are machine washable and dryable, requiring gentle cycles and mild detergents for best results.
The Ruggable System: A Quick Overview
Ruggable rugs have revolutionized home decor by combining style with practicality. Unlike traditional rugs, Ruggable features a two-piece system: a non-slip rug pad and a removable, washable cover. This design lets you easily clean your rug without hassle or damage. The washable cover is made from durable polyester microfiber, which holds up well to frequent washing while maintaining vibrant colors.
Understanding how to wash Ruggable cover properly ensures your rug stays fresh and beautiful for years. With the right care, you can tackle spills, dirt, and allergens effortlessly while preserving the rug’s texture and pattern.
Step-by-Step Guide on How To Wash Ruggable Cover
Cleaning your Ruggable cover is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to keep it looking like new:
1. Remove the Cover from the Rug Pad
Start by peeling the washable cover off the non-slip rug pad. The pad stays on the floor, while the cover goes straight into your washing machine.
2. Shake Off Loose Dirt
Give the cover a good shake outdoors or over a trash bin to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair before washing.
3. Choose the Right Washing Machine Settings
Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid hot water as it can damage fibers or cause colors to fade.
4. Use Mild Detergent Only
Select a mild detergent free of bleach or fabric softeners. Harsh chemicals can break down fibers and dull colors over time.
5. Load the Cover Properly
Place the cover evenly in the washer without overloading it. This allows thorough cleaning and prevents tangling.
6. Run the Wash Cycle
Start your gentle cycle and let it run completely. Avoid pre-soaking unless there are stubborn stains; spot treat those beforehand instead.
7. Drying Your Ruggable Cover Correctly
After washing, tumble dry on low heat or air dry flat if possible. High heat can shrink or warp the fabric, so keep temperatures conservative.
Why Proper Washing Matters for Your Ruggable Cover
The way you wash your Ruggable cover directly affects its lifespan and appearance. Using harsh detergents or hot water may cause fading or fiber breakage, reducing softness and vibrancy.
Regular washing removes dust mites, allergens, pet dander, and dirt that accumulate over time—especially important for allergy sufferers or households with pets.
Moreover, following manufacturer recommendations helps maintain warranty coverage if applicable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Ruggable Covers
- Avoid Bleach: Bleach weakens fibers and ruins colors.
- No Fabric Softener: It leaves residue that dulls texture.
- Don’t Overload Washer: Crowding prevents effective cleaning.
- Avoid High Heat Drying: Can shrink or damage fabric.
- No Dry Cleaning: Chemicals used in dry cleaning aren’t recommended.
- Avoid Ironing: Heat can melt synthetic fibers.
Sticking to these guidelines keeps your rug looking sharp without risking damage.
The Science Behind Ruggable’s Washability
Ruggable covers are crafted from polyester microfiber—a synthetic fiber known for durability and stain resistance. Polyester’s hydrophobic nature means it repels water-based stains but still absorbs oils unless treated promptly.
The microfiber weave traps dirt particles on the surface rather than embedding them deep inside fibers seen in wool rugs. This makes machine washing highly effective at removing grime compared to spot cleaning alone.
Additionally, polyester dries quickly after washing due to its low moisture retention properties, reducing mold or mildew risk when dried properly.
Caring for Different Types of Stains on Your Ruggable Cover
Not all stains respond equally during washing; some require pre-treatment:
- Food & Drink Spills: Blot immediately with a clean cloth; use mild soap solution before washing.
- Pet Accidents: Use enzymatic cleaners designed to break down proteins before laundering.
- Dirt & Mud: Let mud dry completely then brush off before washing.
- Grease & Oil: Apply baking soda or cornstarch to absorb oil before vacuuming; then wash as usual.
- Ink & Dye Stains: These may require spot treatment with rubbing alcohol but test on an inconspicuous area first.
Pre-treating stains improves wash results significantly without damaging fabric integrity.
The Best Detergents for Washing Your Ruggable Cover
Choosing detergent matters because harsh chemicals can degrade polyester fibers over time:
| Detergent Type | Description | Recommended Brands/Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Mild Liquid Detergent | No bleach or enzymes; gentle on colors and fibers. | Tide Free & Gentle, Seventh Generation Free & Clear |
| Baking Soda (Optional Boost) | Adds deodorizing power without chemicals. | Bobbex Baking Soda Powder (generic brands work too) |
| Sensitive Skin Detergent | No dyes or fragrances; reduces irritation risk. | Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Liquid Laundry Detergent |
Avoid powdered detergents that may leave residue if not fully dissolved during cold washes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues After Washing Your Ruggable Cover
Sometimes things don’t go as planned despite following instructions:
- Shrinkage: Usually caused by high heat drying—air dry next time or use lowest dryer setting possible.
- Dull Colors: Overuse of bleach/fabric softener or hot water causes fading; switch detergents and cooler temps.
- Pilling/Fuzz Balls: Polyester can pill with friction; remove pills gently with fabric shaver but avoid harsh scrubbing during wash cycles.
- Mildew Smell: Indicates incomplete drying—hang in sun or well-ventilated area until fully dry before placing back on pad.
- Limp Texture: Too much detergent buildup? Run an extra rinse cycle next wash to flush residues out completely.
Addressing these problems early helps maintain your rug’s quality longer.
The Frequency of Washing Your Ruggable Cover for Optimal Care
How often should you wash that cover? It depends on usage:
- If placed in high-traffic areas like kitchens or entryways, plan on washing every one to two months due to dirt buildup.
- If used in bedrooms or low-traffic rooms without pets/kids, every three to six months is sufficient unless spills occur.
- If allergies are a concern, more frequent washes help reduce dust mites and allergens trapped in fibers.
Regular vacuuming between washes extends time between full laundering sessions but doesn’t replace them entirely since vacuuming won’t remove oils or bacteria effectively.
Key Takeaways: How To Wash Ruggable Cover
➤ Remove the cover before washing for best results.
➤ Use cold water to prevent color fading.
➤ Choose gentle cycle to protect fabric integrity.
➤ Air dry or tumble dry low to avoid shrinkage.
➤ Avoid bleach and fabric softeners for durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Wash Ruggable Cover Without Damaging It?
To wash your Ruggable cover without damage, use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can break down fibers and fade colors. Always tumble dry on low heat or air dry flat to maintain the fabric’s integrity.
What Is The Best Detergent For How To Wash Ruggable Cover?
When washing your Ruggable cover, choose a mild detergent free from bleach and fabric softeners. Harsh chemicals can harm the microfiber fibers and dull the vibrant colors. A gentle, hypoallergenic detergent works best to keep your cover fresh and bright.
Can You Use Hot Water When Learning How To Wash Ruggable Cover?
No, hot water is not recommended for washing your Ruggable cover. Cold water on a gentle cycle protects the fibers and prevents color fading. Using hot water may shrink or warp the fabric, reducing the lifespan of your washable rug cover.
How Often Should You Wash Your Ruggable Cover?
It’s best to wash your Ruggable cover regularly to remove dirt, allergens, and pet dander. Depending on household traffic, washing every few weeks or monthly helps maintain freshness and appearance while preserving the rug’s texture and pattern over time.
What Is The Proper Drying Method After How To Wash Ruggable Cover?
After washing your Ruggable cover, tumble dry on low heat or air dry flat if possible. High heat can cause shrinking or warping of the polyester microfiber fabric. Proper drying ensures your cover stays soft, vibrant, and ready for reuse.
Conclusion – How To Wash Ruggable Cover Effectively Every Time
Mastering how to wash Ruggable cover means treating it gently but thoroughly: remove loose debris first; use cold water with mild detergent on gentle cycles; avoid bleach and fabric softeners; tumble dry low or air dry; pre-treat stains carefully; don’t overload machines; follow frequency guidelines based on usage patterns.
This approach preserves vibrant colors, maintains softness, eliminates allergens efficiently, and extends your rug’s lifespan significantly beyond ordinary carpets requiring professional cleaning—or worse—replacement due to neglectful care routines.
With these practical tips at hand, keeping your stylish yet practical Ruggable rug fresh has never been easier!