High traffic areas like the kitchen require area rugs that are durable and easy to clean. Fortunately, you can find washable rugs that still deliver stylish patterns and colors to your kitchen floor. According to the rug resource guide at Crate and Barrel, two types of rugs make good choices for the kitchen: synthetic fiber and cotton rugs.
Cotton Rugs
Rugs made from 100% all natural cotton are inexpensive and easy to find in a variety of bold colors and patterns to match your decorating style. Their affordability makes them a good choice for seasonal décor and you can often find new patterns and colors with each season.
In addition to low cost, the biggest selling point of cotton rugs is that they are machine washable. Reversible flat-weave rugs can be displayed on either side. When one side starts to look dingy, flip the rug over to reduce washings. If you have an unexpected spill, use a clean white cloth to blot-up as much of the spill as possible, then toss the rug in the washing machine with a mild detergent.
On the downside, cotton rugs are not stain resistant unless they've been treated and eventually start to fade with repeated washings over time. Although some rugs are safe to tumble dry in a dryer, only do so if the care label suggests it. Never lay a cotton rug out to dry in direct sunlight as it will surely fade the color.
Rug Studio
Rug Studio carries the Couristan Bar Harbor collection of machine washable kitchen rugs made from 100% cotton. These rectangular rugs are reversible and feature striped patterns in coordinating color groups of greens, blues and greens, pinks and greens, blue and white and blue and brown, giving them a coastal vibe. The flat weave and heavy-weight craftsmanship ensures the rug lies flat and does not curl at the ends. A rug pad is recommended to keep the rug from slipping.
Sizes and Prices
- 23 in. by 23 in. and 20 in. by 31 in. - $109
- 23 in. by 39 in. - $169 (for solid off-white, patterns are slightly less)
- 27 in. by 47 in. - $219
What to Expect When Shopping
Whether you're looking for affordability, ease of care, durability or an eco-friendly kitchen rug, a little more insight can help you decide which material is the best fit for your lifestyle. Expect the following when looking for a washable kitchen rug:
- Affordability - Cotton and synthetic rugs cost about the same, between $20 and $40 for a small rug and $50 to $200 for larger rugs. Rugs with a non-slip, latex backing can save you the cost of buying a rug pad.
- Durability - Synthetic rugs are more durable and hold their color and shape (with the exception of memory foam) longer after washing.
- Ease-of-care - Machine washable rugs are easier to care for than those that need hand scrubbing and hosing off.
- Eco-friendly - Rugs made from recycled materials and natural cotton cost more due to their specialized manufacturing but those who live a green lifestyle are usually willing to pay more for sustainable products.
Versatile Washable Kitchen Rugs
Perhaps the best thing about washable rugs is their versatility. There is a rug for every kitchen.
