How to Wash and Dry a Plush Bath Rug

Quick answer

Machine wash your plush bath rug on a gentle cycle with cold water and tumble dry on low heat. Avoid fabric softener and high heat to preserve the rug's softness and absorbency.

Step-by-step washing and drying guide

1. Shake off loose debris: Take the rug outside and shake it vigorously to remove hair, lint, and dust. This prevents debris from clogging your washing machine. Skip this step and you may need to clean the lint trap mid-cycle.
2. Machine wash on gentle cycle: Use cold water and a mild detergent. Set your washer to the gentle or delicate cycle. Do not use fabric softener or bleach—they coat the fibers and reduce absorbency. Fabric softener leaves a residue that makes the rug less thirsty over time.
3. Tumble dry on low heat: Place the rug in the dryer on the low-heat or air-fluff setting. Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the pile. Check every 20 minutes to avoid overheating. High heat can melt the rubber backing or shrink the rug, so low heat is non-negotiable.
4. Air dry if needed: If your dryer is too small or the rug is still damp after a cycle, hang it over a drying rack or clothesline. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. Never wring or twist the rug—it can distort the shape and damage the backing.

About this rug

• Plush Bath Rug: The Riley Plush Bath Rug is super soft and absorbent, featuring a racetrack design. Its plush construction needs gentle washing and low-heat drying to maintain its softness and prevent the backing from deteriorating.