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Can I Wash a Braided Rug in a Front Loader?

Braided rugs have adorned floors for years. While the handmade braided rugs of the past require special care and hand-washing, machine-made braided rugs can be washed in the washing machine. Regular care and cleaning of your braided rug maintains the rug's condition and appearance so you only have to machine-wash it on occasion. An occasional washing removes stubborn stains and odors when a regular cleaning isn't enough.

Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum
  • Dry cleaning solvent
  • Sponge
  • Clean cloths
  • Delicate wash laundry detergent
  • 1 cup white vinegar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Vacuum your braided rug as needed to remove dirt and dust. Use a vacuum that doesn't have metal edges on the bottom that can snag the rug. Clean both sides of the rug to remove dirt that's filtered through the rug to the bottom.

    • 2
      With a sponge, you can clean braided rugs without damaging fibers.

      Dampen a sponge with dry cleaning solvent. Spot-clean stains by dabbing at the stain with the dry cleaning solvent until moist.

    • 3

      Place a dry cloth over the site of the stain on your braided rug. Blot the rug with the dry cloth to remove the stain.

    • 4

      Place the braided rug in the front-loading washing machine if it's an appropriate size. Fill the washing machine with cool water to prevent color bleeding or the shrinking of fibers.

    • 5

      Fill the detergent reservoir with a detergent made for delicate wash. Run the rug through a full cycle for delicate or gentle wash items. Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to act as a fabric softener and deodorizer.

    • 6

      Remove the braided rug promptly once the washing machine is finished. Place the rug flat in an area with good air circulation and allow it to dry completely. Once the top side of the rug is dry, turn it over to allow the other side to dry, too.