Can this problem with the back of throw rugs be prevented?
by
Louise
+5
I'm thinking that the rubber (or whatever it is) on the back of throw rugs comes off due to many washings and age. Right? The other side of the rugs looks just fine for every day use, but washing the rugs makes a mess in the washer. As I started wondering about these rugs, I realized they ARE maybe 15+ yrs old. Are ones being sold today any different? Can I buy rugs with nothing on the back and buy those "keep rugs in place" thingies to put under them?
Newer rugs can be purchased without this backing, making them washable in cold water, gentle cycle. Dry on low setting until damp, then hang over a clotheline.
The rubber on will flake off from washing. Newer ones are the same. I don't throw mine in the washer. Wash mine by hand.
You can find rugs without this backing AND you can find rugs with this backing! Keeping the rugs in place with the rug "thingies" only works so well--they still slide around depending on the floor you have. Do you think you'd be able to scrape off the remaining "stuff" on the back of those rugs? Maybe you could use a old credit card or leg shaving razor to get most of it off. Has to be worth a try!
I wash mine in the utility sink, roll them up tight and squeeze the water out along the length. Then I drape them over the edge of the sink to dry.
Thanks. I don't have a utility sink but can probably use the tub.
if you can get one of a large window screens, lay it across the tub and let the rug to dry flat
at one point, there was a paintable non slip backing for rugs, I don't know if its still available...