Over the past months, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram have been flooded with pictures and videos of Ruggable rugs, a home accessory that claims to be very easy to clean as it can be detached from its base and put into a washing machine.
It’s no secret that more and more consumers worldwide love convenient home décor solutions that are also budget friendly. The Ruggable rug certainly checks the first box, but it’s on the pricier side.
This article will explore how interior design stores can leverage customers’ interest in this product and stock alternatives to drive sales.
Table of Contents
What is a Ruggable rug?
Best Ruggable rug alternatives
Final thoughts
What is a Ruggable rug?
Before going through some valid, cheaper alternatives to this item that store owners and buyers can add to their inventory, it’s important to understand the main selling points of this washable rug.
Ruggable rugs come with two components: an underlay pad and a topper. The underlay pad is a black, sticky material that firmly adheres to the kitchen, bathroom, or living room floor. This part is thicker than the rug and serves as a non-slip mat and a base onto which the topper attaches through a Velcro-like system.
The topper is the design cover; the washable portion of the rug pairing features different designs and patterns that can be easily switched to match the interior, the season, or even the homeowner’s mood. Customers can acquire the topper and the pad separately to get only one base and switch as many covers as they like.
So, easy washing and the many customization options are the main selling points of this item, which is slowly but steadily entering many homes in the US, Europe, and some Asian countries.
Focus on cleaning
The reason for the success of Ruggable rugs lies in the fact that people don’t have to vacuum-clean them as they would an ordinary carpet. You can just remove the top layer, give it a good shake outside to remove any dirt and debris, and then load it into a washing machine.
The cover should be put into the machine washer with the pattern side out and then washed with regular detergent. While one design is washing, you can place another style onto the same rug pad.
Best Ruggable rug alternatives
There are several alternatives on the market stores can choose from that offer similar features at a more affordable cost. Below, we will explore some options owners and buyers can consider to attract a wider and more diverse clientele, attentive to interior design trends.
Modular rugs
Modular rugs are a great alternative to Ruggable rugs, offering great flexibility in design and maintenance. These accessories can be as large as area rugs and become as thin as a runner in seconds.
They feature multiple modules that can be assembled and disassembled to create rugs of different shapes and sizes that can cover even irregular floors and areas. Each module can be removed individually, allowing easy spot-washing in a washing machine.
Personalization is a strength of modular rugs: customers can choose and combine different colors and patterns, creating a unique and personalized design.
Easy-to-clean materials
Options made of natural fibers such as linen and cotton are also machine-washable rugs and an easy-to-maintain alternative to Ruggable products. Known for their durability, these rugs come with many size options, and customers can easily wash them by hand or in a washing machine, as their light texture makes them easy to transport and dry.
These rugs often feature a simple and natural design, which integrates perfectly with different décor styles. Customers can pair them with a cushioned pad for a non-slip effect, and they are a great choice for the entryway or under the dining room table.
Rugs with protective coatings
Rugs treated with protective coatings are another interesting alternative to Ruggable rugs because they are resistant to stains, water, and even pet hair. These rugs are often made of synthetic materials that repel liquids and dirt, making them ideal for fast spot-cleaning with a simple damp cloth.
Customers like to place these items in areas of the home that are more susceptible to dirt and wear, such as hallways, kitchens, and living areas. However, they also make a great dining room rug thanks to their stain-resistant properties.
Reversible rugs
Reversible rugs offer an economical and versatile option for those who want to change the look of their home without breaking the bank. These quality rugs feature two designs: one per side, allowing homeowners to flip it over for a new look in seconds.
Reversible rugs are often made from lightweight materials that can be easily shaken to remove dirt or washed in the washing machine or by hand. They are great for customers who appreciate variety and want a functional and decorative product.
Foldable rugs
Foldable rugs are the perfect rug for those looking for a larger piece or a washable area rug that can be easily moved, stored, or switched over. Due to their light, thin, elastic structure, these rugs can be folded and transported easily, making them ideal in small spaces where homeowners frequently change their decor.
Foldable rugs can also temporarily solve events, renovations, or seasonal changes. Their versatility makes them suitable for different situations, offering comfort and style without the commitment of a traditional rug.
Self-adhesive rugs
Sure, they are not the regular type of rug most people use. However, self-adhesive rugs are a practical alternative to traditional ones, as they adhere directly to the floor without needing a separate underlay or cushioned rug pad.
This type of rug is easy to install and remove, leaving the floor intact and free of residue. It is ideal for small kitchens or entryways where you don’t want a rung to move or sleep under your feet.
Final thoughts
Ruggable rugs have revolutionized how customers think about cleaning and maintaining rugs, but they are not the only right option on the market. The alternatives presented offer versatile, economical, and practical solutions that can meet the needs of a wide range of people worldwide.
Whether modular, reversible, or natural material rugs, each alternative brings unique advantages that can enrich the offer of interior design stores and meet customer expectations.