How to Wash a Rubber-backed Rug

Since rubber-backed rugs are most often found in kitchens and bathrooms, they are likely to need washing more than rugs in other spots. They are easy to wash - just toss 'em in the washing machine - but stay away from the dryer.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mild Detergent

1. Read and follow the care instructions that came with the rug.

2. Make sure the rubber isn't deteriorating. Bits of broken rubber can clog washing machines.

3. Separate rugs according to color - lights and darks.

4. Wash each color group separately in cool water with mild detergent, using a gentle cycle.

5. Hang dry, or dry flat, with the rubber side up.

6. Be sure rugs are completely dry before returning them to the floor.

7. Fluff dried rugs with your fingers as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Rubber-backed rugs are known to sometimes stain or discolor vinyl and other kinds of flooring. For this reason, you may want to stick with cotton rugs without the rubber backing.
• If the rubber is disintegrating or falling apart, it's best to replace the rug with a new one.
• Never put rubber-backed rugs in the dryer. The heat will cause the rubber to break down. Hot water may have the same effect, so always use a cold-water washing cycle.

[busybody]

on 9/26/2007 I like my rubber-backed throw rugs and having pets require frequent washings resulting in the loss of backing sooner than I would like. Is there a product I can paint on the backs of my rugs to prolong their use?