Machine Wash Miracles - The Easiest Way to Clean Kitchen Rugs
Kitchen rugs take a real beating. Between cooking splatters, spilled drinks, crumbs, and just plain dirt tracked in from outside, they can get grimy in no time. But who has the time for complex rug cleaning routines? The good news is that with the right washable rugs, you can just toss them in the washing machine for a refresh. Read on to learn the miracle of easy machine washing for all your kitchen rugs.
Why Kitchen Rugs Get So Dirty So Fast
Kitchen rugs really take a pounding when it comes to dirt. High traffic areas cause a steady buildup of grime from people's shoes. Food spills and grease splatters from cooking make stains a near daily occurrence. And all the moisture around the sink from hand washing and dripping dishes can allow mold and mildew to take hold if rugs aren't cleaned frequently.
On top of that, dirt and debris gets ground into the fibers with all the activity. Bits of food also find their way into rug piles. Crumbs in particular can rapidly accumulate on kitchen mats. With such constant soiling, it's no wonder rugs need frequent refreshing.
When To Wash Kitchen Rugs
For kitchen rugs to look their best, plan to launder them at least every week or two. The higher the traffic, the more often they may need washing. Also, inspect the rugs in between full wash cycles. If you see significant staining or soiling, don't wait for the next laundry day. Toss them in right away to prevent stains from setting.
Be sure to check the manufacturer's care label when purchasing rugs. Many are machine washable, but some may have special washing instructions or limitations. Taking the time to wash kitchen rugs before they become overwhelmingly dirty will extend their lifespan.
Pre-Treating Tough Stains
If your kitchen rugs have set-in stains, pre-treat them before washing. Apply a carpet stain removal spray or foam directly to the stained area. Let it soak in for 5-10 minutes before laundering as usual. The pretreatment will help break down stubborn spots so they wash clean.
Preparing Rugs for The Wash
Proper prep before washing can make a difference in getting kitchen rugs ultra clean. Start by shaking them outdoors or over your porch to remove any loose crumbs or surface dirt. This prevents them from getting all over your washing machine.
Next, inspect for any grease or food stains and use a carpet pretreatment solution on them. This extra step helps lift set-in stains.
Also check your rugs for colorfastness, especially if they have fringes or bound edges. Some dyes may bleed during washing. Test for color bleeding by wetting a small hidden area of the rug. If any color transfers onto the cloth, wash in cold water only.
Washing Machine Settings
The washing machine is a kitchen rug's best friend when it comes to getting them clean. Use the warmest water safe for the rug fabric, which helps sanitize and remove oils. Set your machine to the "gentle" cycle if possible. This helps preserve delicate rug fibers.
Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent suitable for rugs and carpets. Steer clear of harsh detergents, which could damage or fade fibers. For extra odor removal, add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle. The vinegar will break down residues and leave rugs fresher.
Drying Delicately
To dry flat woven cotton kitchen rugs or those with a rubber backing, lay flat to air dry instead of putting in the dryer. Hang looped rugs over a pole or rack. Set them outside if possible to avoid moisture buildup indoors. For rugs without rubber backing, tumble dry on low heat.
Ironing Technique for Flat Woven Rugs
Weaving causes fibers to bend and wrinkle. A quick touch up with an iron makes cotton kitchen rugs look crisp and new. Wait until damp dry, then iron on medium heat on the rug's back side. Flip and iron lightly on the front. For delicate rugs, place a pressing cloth between the iron and rug surface.
Be sure to keep the iron moving constantly. Ironing helps rugs regain their shape and lie flat after washing. Properly ironed rugs will appear smooth and tidy.
Stain Removal Tips and Tricks
No matter how careful you are, kitchen spills happen. Having the right stain busting supplies on hand lets you act fast. Here are handy items to treat common kitchen stains:
- Club soda - gently blot onto food stains
- White vinegar - spray onto grease, oil or tomato based stains
- Hydrogen peroxide - apply to wine, coffee or berry stains
- Borax - make a paste for stubborn grease stains
Always rinse with clear water after treating a stain to flush out residue. Getting to stains quickly improves your chances of removal. With the right techniques, you can zap almost any spot.
When To Replace Worn Out Rugs
No rug lasts forever, especially in a busy kitchen. Check along edges for holes, fraying, and tearing seams. Also inspect the surface for balding patches where the pile has worn down. Pull up corners to check the backing isn't deteriorating.
If your faithful kitchen rug has reached a point where it can't be salvaged, it's time to replace it. Worn out rugs become a safety hazard from loose fibers and lack of traction. Don't take chances - swap clearly damaged rugs for fresh new ones.
Choosing the Best Washable Rugs
Not all rugs are created equal when it comes to withstanding frequent laundering. Look for tightly woven styles made of durable, absorbent materials. Cotton is lovely for kitchens because it's easy to clean and quite stain resistant.
Blends that add synthetic fibers like polyester provide enhanced durability. The construction should be dense enough that the rug doesn't shed excessively in the wash. Also ensure any backing is latex or rubber to keep the rug from sliding.
Fabrics with built-in stain protection make maintenance even simpler. But even without specialized treatments, naturally stain resistant fibers like wool and cotton provide peace of mind.
Stylish Washable Rugs To Try
Just because a rug goes in the washing machine doesn't mean it has to be boring. Here are some fun, fashionable styles that are completely machine washable:
- Runners: Crucial for high-traffic areas like near the stove and sink. Narrow and long.
- Sink mats: Place directly in front of the sink to absorb drips.
- Geometric patterns: Modern, eye-catching shapes in bold hues.
- Earth tones: Natural shades of brown, tan and terra cotta hide dirt.
- Whimsical shapes: Octagons, fun flowers, fruit slices. Inject playfulness.
Don't feel like you need to stick with drab, boring designs just because a rug goes in an active area. Let your personality shine with options that express your style.
Dealing with high-maintenance carpet is no fun. But today's washable kitchen rugs make it simple to keep floors looking fabulous. Just toss them in the washing machine - no dragging to the cleaners or special equipment needed.
Machine washing kitchen rugs becomes a quick routine rather than a dreaded chore. Frequent washing keeps them looking like new by reversing dirt buildup before it becomes ingrained.
The right washable rugs are a sanity saver for busy cooks. Next time your kitchen needs a rug refresh, remember the machine washing miracles that allow fast revivals for fresh, clean floors.